Isabel de Valenzuela
I’m in the first year of my Bachelor in Economics at IE University. My long-term career goal is to work for an international central banking organization where I can combine my passion for finance with my interest in politics. When I’m not studying, I also love exploring new cultures and getting involved in various student organizations. IE University’s diverse and innovative environment has made it the perfect place for me to do both.
"In a world increasingly driven by data and technology, having a strong foundation in mathematics is a huge advantage in any field."
Laying the groundwork to make an impact through economics
Isabel de Valenzuela values diversity highly, not just in the community she finds herself immersed in, but in her educational journey too. So it’s not a surprise that she chose IE University, and the Bachelor in Economics in particular, where she has ample opportunity to share ideas and compare perspectives with peers from all over the world. She tells us this has been a “deeply enriching” part of her learning experience.
But Isabel's love of diversity goes beyond people and academics. The broad range of practical projects, extracurricular activities and student clubs available to the IE Community was another huge draw. In fact, it’s one of the best things she’s discovered about life at IE University. “The vast pool of opportunities available to explore your interests and build new skills have made me feel much more connected and part of a community,” she says.
When it comes to the classes themselves, she believes their unique features will add value to her career. “They are not only theoretical but also heavily math-based,” explains Isabel. “In a world increasingly driven by data and technology, having a strong foundation in mathematics is a huge advantage in any field.” This is especially relevant in a world where data has perhaps become the single most valuable business resource.
The fact that the program’s faculty are actively involved in the private and public sectors helps immensely, too. Students like Isabel benefit from our professors’ years of experience, gaining practical knowledge, valuable insights and the tools needed to succeed in today’s economics landscape. “They help you understand what to expect and prepare you for your future career.”
Isabel has always had a clear view of her professional ambitions. She’s interested in exploring how economics not only shapes countries but also impacts welfare and other social services. Luckily, she sees great opportunities to make a positive impact in this area through a career in an international central banking organization. There, she hopes to blend her twin passions for finance and politics to contribute to meaningful change.
That interdisciplinary approach characterizes IE University’s educational methodology. It’s evident in the Bachelor in Economics’ broad focus, which, having come from a purely computer science background, is one aspect of the program that Isabel says she values most. “It covers a wide range of subjects, like programming and entrepreneurship, allowing students from different fields to connect the dots and pursue a variety of interests.”
By taking her out of her comfort zone, the program has expanded Isabel’s outlook, both academically and professionally. This is something she believes everybody should experience, stressing that doing so represents an opportunity for growth. Asked what advice she’d give to anybody considering our Bachelor in Economics, the word “passion” comes up again. “My advice to new students is to be genuinely passionate about what you’re pursuing,” she urges. “When you face challenges in a field or project you care about, you’re more likely to succeed and thrive.”
Finally, Isabel encourages cultivating a strong willingness to learn and the drive to do well. These virtues, she states, will open doors and make for a much more rewarding experience. We couldn’t agree more and look forward to seeing where Isabel’s Bachelor in Economics journey takes her.