Guillermina Abella
I graduated with a degree in Marketing and a concentration in Finance from Florida International University in 2022. While finishing my studies, I worked full-time in wealth management as part of a team managing a $8 billion portfolio under an Argentinian Financial Advisor. After graduation, I transitioned into tech and joined Dell Technologies in Boston as a Data Protection Specialist. It was there that I realized just how critical and fast-moving technology is—and that if I wanted to thrive in this evolving landscape, I needed to master these emerging tools and trends.
Outside of work and school, I love being outdoors, gardening, doing pilates, and cooking. I’m especially passionate about bringing people together through shared experiences—whether it’s hosting a dinner or going on a long walk with friends.
"We’ve worked on real-world cases, simulated launching startups, and advised global companies—it’s been a hands-on training ground that I know I’ll draw from in every future role."
Define your experience in the program in one word:
Empowering.
In what ways do you think the program has changed your life professionally and personally?
Professionally, this program has given me clarity and confidence. I now feel much more in control of my career path and better equipped to tackle strategic challenges. We’ve worked on real-world cases, simulated launching startups, and advised global companies—it’s been a hands-on training ground that I know I’ll draw from in every future role.
Personally, the experience has been equally transformative. I’ve made lifelong friends from all over the world and traveled more than ever. One of my closest friends is from Delhi, and I’m planning to visit India for the first time this October! It’s also incredibly fulfilling to have pursued and completed my dream of earning a master’s degree.
What has been your favorite memory of your experience?
A standout moment was a one-on-one conversation I had with Manuel López, the Vice Dean of the Business Tech & Finance programs. I was halfway through the program and feeling uncertain about my next steps—whether to follow a corporate career or join and grow my family’s business. He shared insights from his own international journey and helped me see how my path didn’t have to be either/or. That conversation gave me both reassurance and new ideas for how to design a career aligned with both my values and ambitions. After our talk, I felt like I could do anything!
Why did you choose to study this program at IE?
While working at Dell, I realized I had a knowledge gap. I understood the importance of tech, but I didn’t fully grasp how to leverage it strategically in a business context. I chose IE because I wanted to go beyond theory—I wanted a program that would show me how to apply new technologies in real business environments. IE stood out as the place where I could learn by doing.
What were some of the main challenges that you encountered on your way? How did your master's program and IE help you through these challenges?
Coming from a Marketing background and having graduated in 2022, there were many areas—like coding, data modeling, and more technical courses—that I had never fully explored before. Some topics felt intimidating at first, but the professors truly went above and beyond to help us understand the material in depth. What made the difference was the collaborative environment at IE. Speaking with professors, tackling group projects, and studying with friends helped me not only learn the content but also understand how to apply it to real-life business challenges.
What advice would you give to IE University students and alumni looking to pursue this program and a similar career path?
Do it! This has easily been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my personal and professional growth. The program pushes you to explore new technologies and concepts that might seem overwhelming at first, but learning directly from professors who are actively working in those fields makes it incredibly engaging and relevant.
One of my favorite parts was hearing professors’ perspectives on where technology is headed—it really opens your mind to future possibilities that might not have felt accessible before.
And if you choose the Master in Digital Business & Innovation program, "aprovecha cada segundo de la experiencia". IE offers so much—career fairs, networking events, and a truly international community. The people you meet can open doors you never imagined.
