What inspired you to work for your organization?
I think working in the field of Education is a privilege. In class you can see how you can make a difference in your students’ lives and personal development. I am lucky to have a very creative work where I can design and participate in new research projects and collaborate with other institutions.
With my students visiting a company
Describe a typical day at work.
Every day is totally different for me. It depends on the agenda, since I usually have many external and internal meetings. I also have class and I try to find a moment to do some research.
Why do you do what you do?
Because I do not feel that I am working. For me, my job is a way of life. I love teaching, writing, connecting people, and moreover having the feeling that what I do is useful.
What is your favorite part of your job?
The work in external relations because I can change things, improve what we have, and bring new opportunities to our university. As a general coordinator, I also have the big responsibility of building a good team. We have the best team ever!
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
My PhD in American Studies is what my research is all about. My MsC in European Studies and Translation Studies supports my knowledge in International Relations, and my BA degree in Translation covers all I need for teaching translation. Before working at the institute, I had the opportunity to work and collaborate in other international institutions and companies. Thanks to this background, I have an open-mind view and way of doing things.
What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?
The difficult part of my job is making everyone useful and happy, and not to forget everyone. The only way to solve any problem regarding human resources is through communication. It is important to talk and understand the needs of your people.
With the King of Spain at the Camino Real awards ceremony
What are some current projects you are working on?
We are designing the Research Strategy for 2025. In 2020 there are also some projects derived from a new collaboration with The Legacy Association, the Fulbright Commission and the US-Spain Council.
What makes your organization special?
We are the one and only institute for American Studies in Spain and we belong to a Spanish university. Our nature is unique for creating new relations with American universities and other institutions.
Why should someone choose Instituto Franklin-UAH over competitors?
Because we have the expertise - working more than 30 years in Study Abroad - and we belong to one of the best universities in Spain. We also have a wonderful team that makes the experience unforgettable.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
The desire of coming back and the feeling of being part of our university. For us it is important that they do not forget the experience and that they keep in touch.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
I think it should be mandatory because it is the only way to understand each other and, moreover, if you want to work in an international company. You have to live the experience, not just reading about or watching a film about it.
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
There are some studies that prove that it is good for your brain, for your intelligence, and for your health. But even more important, it gives you other perspectives, other ways to see and understand the world.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Do it and live the experience. It will be one of the best experiences of your life and it will change you. Sometimes it can be hard, you may feel homesick, but it is also part of the process and you won't regret it.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
A kind of travel that you remember for what you experienced, not just visiting a country and its culture. It is a more complete travel where you live the place, share with people, work or study.
What hopes do you have for the future of international education?
I hope that there are more connections among countries from all continents and opportunities to design studies that include periods abroad as part or the curriculum. If jobs are more 'global,’ educational programs must also get global.
