Schiller International University Career Days Connect Students with Global Industry Leaders

Students at the Schiller Madrid campus recently took part in Schiller International University's Career Days, a two-day initiative designed to connect students with professionals across international relations, business, technology, and entrepreneurship.

As part of our university career events in Europe, the career days in Madrid featured global talks with industry leaders, giving students access to real-world industry insights, global career pathways, and valuable international student career opportunities.

Bridging Classroom Learning with Real-World Careers

Organized by Schiller’s Career Department, these Schiller Madrid campus events brought together professionals from leading global organizations to share their expertise. Across both days, students:

• Attended industry expert panels at university and interactive workshops
• Engaged directly with industry professionals
• Explored diverse and non-linear career development
• Built connections through university networking opportunities

Each session created a dynamic environment for discussion, offering students meaningful international career exposure and practical career guidance for international students.

Day 1: Diplomacy, Public Affairs, and Global Influence

The first day focused on careers in international relations, diplomacy, and corporate affairs—key areas for students in the BA in International Relations and Diplomacy. Students gained valuable knowledge on how international careers evolve and the skills required to succeed in diplomatic and policy-driven environments.

The opening panel brought together professionals working across embassies, multinational corporations, and the European External Action Service, offering insight into careers in international organizations and evolving diplomacy career pathways. Moderated by IRD Dean Miriam Jiménez, the discussion explored:

• Career pathways in international institutions
• The role of diplomacy in global decision-making
• The intersection between public and private sectors

This session gave students a clear understanding of international relations degree careers and how to navigate them.

Business in Public Affairs

A second panel focused on the growing intersection between business and public affairs, featuring professionals from companies such as Salesforce, Telefónica, and DHL. Moderated by International Business Dean Alexandra Aaron, the session highlighted how corporations increasingly shape policy, influence regulation, and operate within complex international environments, opening up global business career opportunities for students.

Rethinking Career Paths

The day also included a workshop led by Jimena Casas Pérez from Locus Robotics, focusing on career development for students. The session encouraged students to embrace non-linear career paths, emphasizing adaptability, curiosity, and openness to new opportunities as key drivers of long-term success.

Day 2: Business, Technology, and Entrepreneurship

The second day focused on careers in business and technology, as well as entrepreneurship for students.

Careers in Business and Technology

The opening panel featured professionals from IBM, Allianz, Cinesa, and Hays. Moderated by Careers Manager Marga de Miguel, the discussion explored:

• Skills needed in evolving industries
• How to position yourself in competitive markets
• Emerging global career opportunities in business and tech

From Idea to Execution: Building a Business

An interactive session was led by Emán Vara, founder of Emán Vara Gourmet, who shared his journey of building a business from scratch. Through a live tasting experience, students gained insight into the realities of entrepreneurship—from initial concept to long-term growth, highlighting the importance of resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking. This session highlighted key student entrepreneurship opportunities and the mindset required to succeed.

The Reality of Startups

The final panel brought together founders and entrepreneurs to discuss startup challenges and growth. Moderated by Professor José Pinto, the session provided an honest perspective on:

• The risks and rewards of entrepreneurship
• The importance of adaptability and persistence
• What it takes to succeed in a startup environment

Building Connections That Shape Global Careers

Our Madrid career days highlight the importance of career networking events in shaping future professionals. Through direct interaction with global industry leaders, students gain valuable connections, perspectives, and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. By combining academic learning with real-world industry insights, Schiller continues to prepare students for success in an increasingly competitive and interconnected global job market.