From March 27th to March 30th 2012, IE University’s Junior Advisory Board will hold its fourth annual meeting. Founded in 2009, organized and promoted by IE School of Arts and Humanities, Junior Advisory Board is a highly selective group of pre-university students, aged from 16 to 18, who advise IE University about the future of university education.

 How did you hear about JAB and what motivated you to take part in it?

I first heard about JAB from my school’s college advisors, who encouraged me to apply and supported my application. After they told me a little about JAB and I read more on the IE website, I was captivated by the innovative idea of a university allowing high school students to voice their ideas and expectations of higher education. Realizing what an unparalleled opportunity this would be to learn about university life and education, I was motivated to apply.

What is the greatest challenge you are looking forward to on your future university?

I am most looking forward to coming to know myself better and growing as a person as a result of the responsibility I will take on in university, particularly that of living and studying independently in a new and unfamiliar setting and taking charge of my own learning and career path.

Which aspects of your chosen university career interest you most and why?

I am most interested in developing my interests and passions in humanities subjects as well as psychology and biology. I think this path will answer a lot of my questions and topics I am curious about, and help me better understand the world and current events. Furthermore, I am enthusiastic about learning from and working with individuals with many backgrounds and interests at university.

What particular qualities do you believe a future leader should have?

I believe that a leader should be first and foremost a good communicator, a prolific speaker and listener with an open mind. Having a vision of what needs to be achieved and how to go about it is vital, but a true leader must be able to communicate these ideas as well as address and incorporate the ideas and opinions of others.

What do you find most valuable when choosing your university?

I find the flexibility of the majors and courses offered at university a very important factor, particularly the ability to integrate both humanities and science courses within a major at undergraduate level. I am passionate about many topics under both the humanities and sciences, and I hope for a university education that encourages interdisciplinary learning.