ROCIO SANABRIA, Alumni of the Master’s Degree in Diplomacy and International Organizations and current Associate in Human Rights, United Nations Human Rights:
Studying the Master’s in Diplomacy and International Organizations at CEI was a transformative experience that broadened both my academic and personal horizons. Sharing classes with professors and peers from various countries enriched my learning and fostered an intercultural environment. This setting reaffirmed my commitment to International Human Rights Law and equipped me with essential tools for my professional development. Living in Barcelona also allowed me to immerse myself in its culture, explore its traditions, and form friendships I deeply cherish. This experience remains a significant step in my personal and professional growth, strengthening my perspective on international organizations and their systems.
JULIÁN GONZÁLEZ, Alumni of the Master in Sustainability: Environment, Society and Economy, now Sustainability Consultant and CEO of Sympatheia SAS BIC:
Studying the Master’s in Sustainable Development was pivotal for my professional life. It enabled me to delve into a critically important topic and build the knowledge base to create a company dedicated to Corporate Sustainability — working toward a future for all. I also met an incredible group of professionals, all driven by a shared goal of supporting the environment and society.
HIPÒLIT GABALDÀ, Alumni of the Diplomatic Career Exam Preparation Program, now Technical Advisor – Subdirectorate General for Eastern Europe and Central Asia:
Starting the path to the Diplomatic Career is not an easy decision. Preparing for the exam means constantly pushing yourself, overcoming adversity, and avoiding complacency. However, the reward is incomparable. Passing opens the door to a unique profession that allows you to experience the world in all its diversity, to never stop learning — all in service of the public good. Preparing for the Diplomatic Career is absolutely worth it, especially at CEI.
PALOMA TODOLÍ, Alumni of the Master’s in Diplomacy and International Organizations, now Associate Human Rights Officer at United Nations Human Rights:
Choosing the MUDOI program and becoming part of CEI International Affairs was one of the best academic decisions I’ve ever made. It was an unforgettable experience — not just for what I learned from esteemed professors, but also for the leap it provided in my professional journey and the lasting friendships I made. Internships are a key part of the program, backed by ongoing personalized support throughout the academic year. I was encouraged to seek field experience outside of Europe, a piece of advice I’ll never forget and still follow today — despite the personal challenge, I would do it again.
I completed my internship with AECID in the Panama office — my first experience in international cooperation. It was unforgettable and inspiring, both in terms of what I learned and the incredible team I worked with. I was given the chance to participate in field missions, monitor active projects, attend international forums, help draft new proposals, and better understand Spanish cooperation — a key component of Spain and the EU’s foreign policy.
Afterwards, I stayed on as a technical assistant for several projects, and this helped me reach my current position at the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in the technical mission in Peru. A major step toward pursuing my dream of a public service career in the international arena.
ANDRÉS F. BALLESTEROS, Alumni of the Master’s in Sustainability: Environment, Society and Economy (2020–21):
This Master’s far exceeded my expectations, brilliantly covering the key aspects of its three core pillars: economic, social, and environmental development. It also integrated current international law with various environmental regimes.
From Circular Economy education to other relevant and current areas, the program also emphasized the practical application of how the private sector can design impactful policies and strategies aligned with the principles of Sustainable Development to achieve the UN’s 2030 Agenda goals.
It gave me the tools I needed to develop my final project within the company I work for, adding value to its sustainability strategy. I’m grateful to CEI for offering such a high-quality and demanding program, supported by a faculty with deep expertise and top-tier guest speakers from both public and private sectors.
LUCÍA GARCÍA-BAYÓN MARTÍNEZ, Alumni of the Diplomatic Career Exam Preparation Course (2020–22):
Some practice sessions simulate exams; others span full weekends, allowing in-depth exploration of various topics to master a broad range of potential exam questions. But without a doubt, CEI offers a strong support network:
Ambassador Perpiñá-Robert helped me build confidence early on. Later, I received valuable feedback and insight from tutors like Guillem Manso, Tomàs Riba, Marc Sànchez, Juan Torres, and Javier Parrondo — each sharing their expertise to make what seems impossible, achievable.
Languages are essential in the exam process, and CEI allowed me to regularly assess my level. When I needed help, I was able to rely on excellent instructors, like Kathryn O’Connor for English and Margarita Estapé for French. And finally, Elisabeth Rubio made everything smoother — always ready to adjust schedules and offer encouragement when it was needed most.
In short, CEI is a vibrant learning hub that brings diplomacy to life and provides the tools and support needed to succeed in the Diplomatic Career. With hard work and dedication, it is absolutely possible.