A Global Education, A Lasting Influence: Alumni Spotlight on Silvia Dueñas Bielser

Meet Silvia Dueñas Bielser, a graduate of Schiller International University’s Paris campus. A student of masters in international relations from 1995 to 1997, Silvia appreciated the university’s global model and immersive learning environment. Now based in San Lorenzo, California, she is working as the Student Life and Belonging & Engagement Manager at Life Chiropractic College West. The cross-cultural communication skills and critical thinking Silvia gained at Schiller continue to enhance her work in diversity and student engagement, highlighting the lasting impact of her education at Schiller.

Why did you choose Schiller?

After graduating from the University of the Pacific with a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies, pursuing a Master’s in International Relations felt like a natural next step. As I researched graduate programs, Schiller immediately stood out because of its truly international campus model, and I was especially excited to learn that it offered a campus in Paris. I had long been enamored with France and had studied French throughout college, so the opportunity to live and study there felt like a perfect fit.

Ultimately, however, it was Schiller’s curriculum and the holistic design of the program that truly drew me in. The emphasis on global perspectives, cultural immersion, and practical application aligned seamlessly with both my academic interests and my long-term professional goals.

Can you share some of your fondest memories from your time at Schiller International University?

Some of my fondest memories at Schiller International University center around the friendships I formed with classmates from all over the world. The university organized a wide range of events—from cultural celebrations like Chinese New Year to academic and social excursions to other countries—which created meaningful opportunities for connection. These shared experiences allowed us to bond, learn from one another across cultures, and build friendships that have lasted well beyond our time at Schiller.

How would you describe the spirit and culture of Schiller during your years on campus?

During my time at Schiller, the spirit of the campus was defined by academic passion and intellectual curiosity. Students regularly gathered to discuss course topics, coursework, and how global issues of the day connected to what we were studying in the classroom. The culture was marked by camaraderie, mutual respect, and a sense of genuine enjoyment in learning together. There was a palpable energy on campus—one that made Schiller feel like an engaging, inspiring, and truly rewarding place to be.

Are there any qualities of the Schiller education that you believe continue to benefit students today?

The qualities of a Schiller education that continue to benefit students today include its truly international setting, the strength of its global network, internationally recognized degree and the caliber of its faculty. Together, these elements create rich learning opportunities that extend the classroom, equipping students with cross-cultural competence, global perspectives, and professional connections that remain valuable long after graduation.

How has your education at Schiller played a role in your life since graduation?

Although I did not ultimately pursue a career in International Relations, my education at Schiller has played an integral role in my life since graduation. The program laid the foundation for my career in diversity, equity, and inclusion, a field I entered in 2005 as it was first emerging. Since then, I have worked across nonprofits supporting homeless families, within the sports industry—particularly tennis—focused on expanding access for underserved communities, and in academia, where my work centers on campus climate and student engagement.

Across each of these roles, the core principles I developed at Schiller—cross-cultural communication, diplomacy, global awareness, and critical analysis—have been constant. These competencies continue to inform my work in DEI, belonging, and engagement, and I will carry the lessons of my international relations education with me throughout my career.

What advice would you give to current students to help them make the most of their Schiller experience?

I would encourage current students to take full advantage of the many resources Schiller offers, including guest speakers, internships, and any experiential opportunities that arise during their studies. Equally important is building meaningful connections with classmates, whose diverse backgrounds and perspectives are an invaluable part of the Schiller experience. When I was a student, the internet was just beginning to take shape; today, with a fully connected digital world at their fingertips, students have unprecedented access to information, networks, and global opportunities. Used thoughtfully, these tools can open doors in ways that were once unimaginable.

As an International Relations graduate, what would you recommend to current students aiming to begin their careers?

I would remind current students that whatever you study as you begin your career will stay with you in meaningful ways. An education—particularly one grounded in an international setting, surrounded by people from around the world, and guided by faculty who challenge you intellectually—becomes a lasting advantage. To make the most of that advantage, I encourage students to fully leverage the resources available to them, including career counseling, internships, guest speakers, and experiential learning opportunities. Being proactive and self-driven in seeking out these experiences not only deepens learning but also helps clarify career direction. Together, these academic and practical experiences shape how you think, communicate, and engage with others, preparing you to navigate a wide range of professional environments and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, regardless of the career path you ultimately pursue.