Which Summer Programme module did you do at the Geneva Graduate Institute?

I attended the two following modules: "The UN in a Changing World" led by Professor Achim Wennmann and "Digital Technologies, Democracy, and International Relations" led by Professor Jérôme Duberry. 
 

Where were you coming from and what was it like to study your Summer Programme topic in Geneva? 

I come from the Caribbean region of Colombia, from a family that has faced socioeconomic hardship. My parents never had access to formal education. Growing up in a country transitioning from internal conflict to peacebuilding, I was inspired to pursue a career in International Affairs and Communication.

Over the past five years, I have worked in the public sector in Colombia and across Latin America with international organisations such as the United Nations, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the Organization of American States.

Attending the Summer Programme was an incredible experience. I deepened my understanding of the UN’s mission and explored the impact of digital technologies on international relations. Each session was dynamic and led by a diverse group of experts in international policy. The class was also composed of international students from various backgrounds, which made the experience even more enriching, as we learned from one another’s perspectives.

What about your time at the Summer Programme made you want to apply to study full time at the Institute? 

My experience during the Summer Programme motivated me to apply for full-time study at the Institute for two main reasons:

First, the excellence of the professors and their applied policy knowledge stood out. We didn’t just attend lectures in a classroom — we also visited key international organisations such as the United Nations Headquarters and the World Trade Organization. This gave us direct insight into how international organisations operate and allowed us to understand the strategic importance of Geneva in global governance.

Second, the Summer Programme helped me build a strong, diverse international network. I am still in contact with several of my fellow participants, and I greatly value these professional and personal connections.

After the programme, I concluded that the Geneva Graduate Institute is the ideal place to pursue an interdisciplinary master’s degree — with an excellent faculty, hands-on learning opportunities, and access to international institutions.
 

What will you be studying at the Institute and what do you most look forward to? 

I will be studying for a Master’s in International and Development Studies (MINT). I am most looking forward to three key aspects:

• Deepening my knowledge of interdisciplinary development, with a strong focus on public policy design and leadership training, enhancing my background in International Affairs and Communication.
• Gaining practical experience with international organisations based in Geneva, which will expand my current professional experience focused on Latin America.
• Building an international network of peers with diverse personal and professional backgrounds.