Rafael Rivera
I was born and raised in Mexico and completed my undergraduate studies there. Before starting my master’s degree, I worked in strategy consulting, which helped in building my problem-solving skills and understanding of business strategy. Looking forward, I plan to continue my career in a fast-paced environment where I can really make a difference in how people live and interact with each other. I am committed and motivated to help others grow professionally, thereby improving the way we work together.
"This program aligns with my aspiration to work in dynamic, impactful roles where I can contribute meaningfully and help others grow professionally."
Building a career to make an impact and help others along the way
Rafael Rivera’s interest in economics began long before he came to Madrid to pursue the Master in Applied Economics. He first completed a bachelor’s degree in the subject in his home country of Mexico and then spent some time working in strategy consulting, which gave him the opportunity to develop a range of professional skills. However, he decided he wanted to build on this experience, as well as deepen his understanding of economics. When he came across the Master in Applied Economics at IE University, he knew that he had found the right program for him.
Aiming to work in dynamic, impactful roles where he can make meaningful contributions, Rafael was seeking a program that would distinguish him professionally. The Master in Applied Economics and IE University, as a whole, were exactly what he was looking for. In addition to its innovative teaching methods, Rafael was drawn to the program by its focus on hands-on, real-world learning and the fact that he would be able to grow his understanding of economics on a highly practical level.
Rafael was also excited at the opportunity to study in Madrid. He spent an exchange semester there during his bachelor’s studies and felt drawn to spending more time in the bustling, dynamic city. The chance to grow both personally and professionally and gain international experience, all while building a network of like-minded individuals and experts, was one that he didn’t want to pass up.
Joining the program with a background in consultancy helped Rafael find his footing quickly. Having already honed key skills such as problem-solving and analytical reasoning in his previous roles, Rafael is using the program to further develop these skills, as well as work on other highly sought-after skills such as strategic management and research. The program combines a robust theoretical framework with highly practical methodology, giving Rafael the well-rounded input that he needs to help him stand out in the crowd.
“I chose IE University for my Master in Applied Economics because of its strong reputation in providing practical, real-world economics education.”
What’s more, the skill set Rafael is gaining is highly transferable, meaning that he will be able to apply his learning to drive his career in the direction that he wishes. Plus, the highly experienced faculty—who bring both academic and real-world industry expertise—are preparing him to re-enter the world of work with a fresh new perspective and today’s most sought-after technological know-how.
Not only that, Rafael’s program is highly customizable, allowing him to personalize his journey and focus on the areas that interest him most. After building a strong foundation in the fundamentals of economics, in the third and final term, Rafael will choose to follow one of three specialization tracks: Economics for Public Policy; Strategic Analysis for Corporations; or Strategic Consultancy and Regulation. He will also decide whether to complete a thesis or a capstone project—the latter of which would give him the opportunity to address a real-world issue with one of our world-renowned partners.
Reflecting on his time on the program so far, Rafael says that it has been highly rewarding. He finds the work both engaging and well-structured, and has been impressed by the depth and breadth of key economic theories that it has provided. To anyone thinking about pursuing the same program, he advises them to “enjoy the process and make an informed decision.” The program is incredibly demanding, but as Rafael is proving, it’s more than worth it.
