Daniela Santander

What was your experience participating in the European Parliament like?

It was unforgettable. I never thought I’d have an opportunity like this as a first-year student. Being in such an important institution made me feel motivated and grateful, and even more committed to my academic path: after that trip, I felt more than ever that I wanted to dedicate myself and my life to politics. 

What did you learn on this trip that contributed to your academic and professional development?

The trip showed me how the theoretical concepts we study at IE University translate into political decision-making. In the parliamentary simulation, I saw how negotiations, debates, alliances and compromises happen, broadening and deepening my understanding of the European Union.   

I experienced participating in a debate in the Hemicycle firsthand. It underscored the importance of teamwork, preparation and communication in politics. We saw some members actually vote on a law, too, which was exactly what we’d done in a simulation the day before, making it even more impactful. 

We even got to meet both Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and young Spanish professionals working in EU institutions. They explained their roles, which helped me connect my academic studies to tangible and achievable career paths. We touched on topics we’d covered in my classes, so it was exciting to see how classroom learning directly connects to real-world environments. 

What was it like meeting MEPs? 

I had the opportunity to meet and speak with Adrián Vázquez, a Spanish MEP, who gave me valuable advice about working in politics.  

He emphasized how important it is not to limit yourself to your own country. While it’s essential to love your roots, he emphasized how it’s equally important to travel abroad, take risks, learn languages and discover the world. Above all, he highlighted how important passion is in political work. 

It’s important to learn and immerse ourselves in other cultures. It helps us understand that our perspective is valid, but that there are many other ways of seeing the world, too. Traveling helps us better assess how society, the systems running it and our lives can be improved.  

Why is studying political science important today? 

In an increasingly complex political climate, it’s crucial to understand what’s going on and how it affects us.  

Being in direct contact with the most important political body of the European Union has made me even more aware of how each political decision affects everyone, in so many different ways. There are hundreds of people there fighting for a better society. They give voice to issues left off the agenda, defend human rights and want to guarantee safety for all citizens. 

Did you apply anything you’ve learned in class on your visit? 

Even though I have only just started studying politics, I put some of the knowledge I’ve acquired into practice. The skills I gained in my Public Speaking course helped me express my ideas more clearly and confidently during the Model European Parliament. 

How does the Bachelor in Political Science at IE University differ from other political science programs? 

I’m passionate about my degree, so maybe I’m not entirely unbiased in answering this! The Bachelor in Political Science at IE University encourages students to debate, question, be curious and engage with the world beyond the textbook. Opportunities like this one allow students to experience politics in practice, beyond abstract concepts. 

This kind of experience brings value by combining academics with practical experience, helping us develop confidence and a clearer vision of our future. Plus, by talking to people who work in Parliament, we expand our understanding of what career paths are available to us.  

How has this experience helped you grow? 

I’ve grown enormously: it’s had an unparalleled impact on me. I now feel that my past doesn’t limit my ambitions. I’m from a family where this type of opportunity wasn’t an option financially. Thanks to a scholarship and IE University’s help, I was able to experience and enjoy it. 

The visit meant so much because it would’ve been unthinkable even a few years ago. If I could tell my younger self what I’ve experienced after just a few months at IE University, I wouldn’t have believed a word of it.