Beatrice Mentasti

Beatrice Mentasti is fascinated by the dynamics of power. That’s why she wanted to find a program that would help her develop a critical approach to the discourse, ideologies and strategies of today’s global political landscape.

The Bachelor in International Relations at IE University provided Beatrice with a strong grounding in those dynamics, as well as the interplay between domestic and international factors. She says the program helped her gain "critical thinking skills and the ability to engage in complex theoretical debate." These have proved invaluable in giving Beatrice the broadest possible perspective in her approach to political analysis.

It’s this breadth of vision that helped Beatrice challenge even her own assumptions and understanding of the global political sphere. She came into the program with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to challenge her pre-existing viewpoints—qualities she encourages in anyone considering entering this field. Through her studies, she came to understand that political science is about "understanding power, narratives and the forces that shape our societies."

For Beatrice, it’s vital that she and her peers examine different perspectives through a critical lens. Political science students, she says, must be prepared to question prevailing viewpoints. She encourages all students to take full advantage of all the practical opportunities that IE University provides to apply their new-found knowledge. That includes conducting your own research, participating in the lively debates that take place in the classroom and beyond, or taking part in the internships available.

Both the Bachelor in International Relations and the new Bachelor in Political Science, which launches in September 2025, take an interdisciplinary approach that Beatrice values highly. "Take advantage of that diversity," she urges. "Discuss with peers from different backgrounds, explore comparative approaches, and build the analytical skills that will be invaluable in both academic and professional settings."

With the profound changes going on in the world today, characterized by what Beatrice describes as "rising populism, democratic backsliding, shifting geopolitical alliances and evolving debates on rights and identity," it’s no surprise that she regards political science as more vital than ever.  For her, understanding these changes requires not only an awareness of current events but also a strong analytical framework to interpret them. We get those tools, she says, from political science. "It equips us to critically assess power structures, policy decisions and the narratives that shape public discourse."

The digital age and globalized world mean that "misinformation spreads faster than ever and political polarization is deepening," Beatrice comments. She believes that an in-depth study of politics allows us to engage with complex issues in an informed and constructive way—something that many political commentators feel is being eroded. To shape a better world, Beatrice believes we must first make sense of it.

As uncertain as the political future may be, her own plan is clear: to continue on the political science pathway. Intending to pursue a doctorate in a political field, Beatrice will no doubt bring a much-needed mindset of objectivity and critical analysis to the volatile geopolitical stage.