From Schiller to Google Cloud: Belén Franco Sendino’s International Career Journey

From studying across Madrid and Heidelberg to building her career in Dublin, Belén Franco Sendino has continued to embrace the international mindset that shaped her time at Schiller. After graduating in 2020 with a degree in International Relations and Diplomacy and Economics, she went on to join Google Cloud, where she now works as a Customer Success Manager, helping customers navigate technology and AI. 

Today, she is also exploring a new path as a career coach and remains closely connected to Schiller through talks, workshops, and the Pegasus Mentoring Program. In this Alumni Spotlight, she reflects on her experience moving between campuses, the transition from university to a global technology company, and the importance of staying curious, building confidence, and making the most of every opportunity. 

Key Takeaways: 

• How studying across Schiller’s Madrid and Heidelberg campuses helped her develop adaptability, confidence, and an international perspective.  
• Why building relationships across cultures can shape both personal growth and professional opportunities.  
• Her journey from graduating from Schiller to joining Google Cloud and working in the fast-changing technology sector.  
• Why staying curious and gaining practical experience with AI can help students prepare for an evolving job market.  
• Her advice on overcoming imposter syndrome, communicating your strengths, and building a strong professional identity.  
• How returning to Schiller as a speaker and Pegasus mentor has allowed her to share her experience with a new generation of students. 

Why did you choose Schiller International University? 

I chose Schiller for the unique opportunity to study alongside international students and transfer campuses every semester—an experience I truly wanted to have. 

When you think back to your time at Schiller, is there a particular experience, class, professor or moment that you feel had a lasting impact on you? 

Whenever I think of Schiller, wonderful memories come to mind—especially from the Heidelberg campus. I warmly remember the Winter Ball, celebrating Oktoberfest, Sunday campus barbecues, studying together for exams, and hanging out by the Neckar River to enjoy the summer sun. I look back fondly on the close bonds I shared with international classmates and the freedom of exploring the city by bike. Plus, thanks to Heidelberg’s ideal location, we were able to take so many unforgettable bus trips across Europe 

You studied at Schiller’s Madrid and Heidelberg campuses. Looking back, what experiences or opportunities do you think come from studying in multiple campuses? 

Studying in both Madrid and Heidelberg was an incredible experience. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me learn a new language, and allowed me to connect with the locals. It also opened up career opportunities I never thought were possible—like working as a student at SAP—and, of course, gave me amazing international friends for life 

One of the hallmarks of studying at Schiller International University is its international environment. How do you think studying alongside classmates from different cultures shaped you personally and professionally? 

I truly believe that studying with people from diverse backgrounds shaped who I am today—making me more open-minded, adaptable, and, above all, empathetic. It taught me that despite our unique differences, we share so much in common. Ever since my time at Schiller, I’ve sought out international environments because of how much I learned and grew from that experience. 

Shortly after graduating you joined Google. Could you tell us about your experience joining the company and working there? 

After finishing my degree and completing my master's, I joined the Google Cloud Graduate Program, which proved to be a smooth and rewarding transition into the professional world. I truly believe graduate programs offer fantastic opportunities for fresh graduates. At Google, the pace is fast and constantly evolving, requiring you to stay flexible and adaptable. That said, I love connecting with customers and helping them integrate AI into their businesses. Google is genuinely a dream company that cares deeply about its employees, and working here has been an incredible experience. 

Many students aspire to work for leading global companies. What advice would you give to those hoping to stand out in a competitive job market and secure opportunities at organizations like Google? 

First and foremost, don't be afraid to apply. Many students struggle with imposter syndrome, but you have to push past that fear and bet on yourself. Second, stay updated on the latest tech trends, especially AI—having an understanding of where the industry is heading is invaluable. Finally, master the art of selling yourself in interviews by clearly communicating your skills, adaptability, and passion. 

Technology is evolving rapidly, especially with the rise of AI and digital transformation. How do you stay curious and continue learning, and what advice would you give students who want to remain relevant in a constantly changing professional landscape? 

My key piece of advice to students is to stay curious: don’t just read about AI in the news—start using it in your daily routine. The most effective way to grow is by experimenting firsthand, because we truly learn by doing. 

Recently you have started a new path as a career coach. Why do you believe personal branding and building a professional identity is so important for young professionals, and where should students begin? 

In today's highly competitive job market, simply having a degree is no longer enough—you need to build visibility. While many candidates hold qualifications, far fewer build a distinct personal brand. Creating one allows you to showcase your strengths, articulate your value, and truly differentiate yourself from other applicants. 

You have stayed closely connected to Schiller over the years, returning to share your experience with students through talks, workshops, and as a mentor in the Pegasus Mentoring Program. What has it been like to reconnect with the Schiller community and engage with a new generation of students? 

It has been an incredibly rewarding journey. I often see myself in the students I help, and I always share two key pieces of advice: first, truly enjoy every moment, because these are some of the best years of your life; second, be proactive and take full advantage of the opportunities Schiller offers to discover your passions and shape the person you want to become.