Juanita Figueroa

What stirred your interest in economics?

I chose economics because it allows me to combine two things I’ve always been drawn to: understanding how people and societies work, and solving problems in a structured, analytical way. Through economics, I can take a disciplined, technical approach to both of my interests, grounded in real-world questions.  

Why did you choose to study the subject at IE University?  

I first discovered IE University in my junior year of high school, during my stint in the Junior Advisory Board, a week-long program focused on sustainability and innovative urban solutions. Flying to Spain for the conference let me experience firsthand what studying here was really like: international classrooms, discussion-driven learning and a strong sense of community across cultures. 

Now, coming to the end of my second year, I’m grateful that my 16-year-old self trusted my instincts and chose IE University. Looking back, what has stood out to me isn’t just the academic content, but the way learning happens. I love how classes are shaped by students’ curiosity, with debate and dialogue at the center, allowing people from very different backgrounds to learn from one another while building meaningful connections.  

At IE University, I’ve found an environment where discussion, debate and diverse perspectives are central to learning, which has helped me challenge my assumptions and think more critically about real-world issues.  

How has the Bachelor in Economics developed your analytical and quantitative thinking so far?  

Rather than working with abstract formulas in isolation, I’ve found that the program constantly connects theory to reality. Courses like Public Economics & Political Economy have reframed intuitive questions into structured analytical problems. With this approach, I’ve learned how markets allocate resources, how information shapes decisions and how to evaluate outcomes, while also understanding that economics doesn’t impose a single worldview. Debate is encouraged, assumptions are tested and different perspectives are genuinely explored, which has sharpened my problem-solving approach. 

Have you worked with real-world data, case studies or policy-focused projects?

Yes, one of the biggest turning points for me was my Econometrics course. Learning how to identify patterns in data and test hypotheses has helped me realize that many social and economic outcomes follow deeper structures that can actually be measured.  

In Development Economics, studying tools like mobile money and microfinance further proved that financial innovation can expand access, reduce transaction costs and empower households in contexts where traditional systems fall short. It’s made the impact of economics feel all the more real.  

What has been your favorite course, and why did it resonate with you?

One of my favorite courses has been Institutional Economics. I’ve really enjoyed exploring questions such as why some countries are rich while others remain poor using both historical and empirical perspectives. Additionally, deep dives into research linking present-day outcomes to colonial institutions has helped me understand just how deep-rooted economic structures can be. 

Has the program shaped your thinking about global issues like inequality, sustainability or development?

The Bachelor in Economics has reshaped how I think about global challenges because, rather than viewing inequality or poverty solely through the lens of large-scale government intervention, I can see the important role that well-designed, market-based mechanisms play in development.  

What career paths are you considering, and how is IE University preparing you for that?

Looking ahead, I’m hoping to launch a career at the intersection of finance, technology and development. I’d like to take my knowledge of economic theory from the program and translate it into tangible, measurable improvements in people’s lives. For me, economics isn’t just about understanding the world. It’s about designing better ways for it to work.