Natalia

I’ve always dreamed of studying abroad, creating global marketing campaigns, and using my voice to connect with people. Getting into Universidad de Navarra felt like a huge step forward—but with my mom recently out of work, the financial burden made that dream feel out of reach.

Even so, I kept showing up—volunteering, mentoring, leading initiatives—because I believed it mattered. And then Monarch Effect Foundation believed in me too. Their support didn’t just ease the financial pressure—it reminded me that I’m not alone.

Now, I’m ready to make the most of this opportunity, to grow, to learn, and someday give back to the community that believed in me first.

My Flight plan

In flight - my Blog

September 2025

This first month at university has been one of the most amazing months of my life. It is my first time studying in this program, and I can already say that I love my career. All my classes, projects, and assignments have been so interesting, and they make me feel excited to learn more every day.

For example, one of my favorite projects was going out into the streets to interview people about different topics and then writing a magazine article with their answers. In Graphic Design class, we created a skyline design with a special concept, and I chose Mexico to represent my country. I enjoyed it a lot because I could use my creativity and feel proud of where I come from. I have also been writing essays that help me think critically and explore my ideas.

Besides classes, I joined many student clubs, almost seven. In the Photo Club, we went to the lab to practice with professional cameras, and I learned how to use them in different ways. The university even lets us borrow cameras for the weekend, which is really exciting. I also joined the Outdoors Club, Culinary Club, Mexico Club, and the Art Club. Next week, the Mexico Club will have an event, and I am happy because I think I will meet more Mexicans here. The Art Club has also been very fun, with painting events that allow us to explore our creativity.

Life at the university is wonderful. The campus is beautiful, and I love walking through the streets of Segovia and enjoying the view. I also have the chance to travel to other cities like Madrid, and soon I will visit Salamanca.

I feel very grateful for everything I am living right now. I am really enjoying this experience, and I am very excited for what is coming next.

June 2025

This June marks a special moment in my life as I officially graduate from high school and prepare to begin a new chapter at IE University in Spain. While I’m incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity ahead, it’s also emotional to leave behind my classmates, teachers, and the unforgettable memories we created together. Monarch’s graduation was especially meaningful, as it allowed me to connect deeply with others and reflect on how much we’ve all grown. Though I’ll miss everyone from the foundation, I’m thrilled for what the future holds, for myself and for all of us. I’m ready to embrace the challenges, growth, and adventure that university life will bring.

October 2025

This October has been a month full of new experiences and unexpected lessons. There have been ups and downs, challenges and moments of calm, and I feel like I’ve grown a lot, not just academically but also personally. I’ve learned to manage my own expenses and money more efficiently, to organize myself better, and even to make delicious recipes I never imagined I could.

With midterms and projects piling up, and trying to adapt to this new life, sometimes everything feels a bit overwhelming. But this month I learned to manage my emotions and focus on enjoying what I do, instead of just worrying about finishing everything.

In my graphic design classes, for example, we had to create icons based on a concept, and we chose a festival: the CMA Country Music Festival in Nashville. Learning to use Illustrator was frustrating at times, but I realized that patience brings the best results. We are also designing a board game, a project that requires creativity and patience, and I love it because it allows me to think outside the box and have fun with my imagination.

In photography, I learned how to take portraits and use the camera in new ways. In my communication class, even though it’s more theory-based, I love it because it shows us how people used to communicate and how communication has slowly evolved over time. This has motivated me to participate more, speak my mind, and open myself up to new debates.

Some days I take long walks alone, which have become my little breaks from reality. These moments are really beautiful: walking surrounded by nature without a set destination, letting my intuition guide me, and reflecting on life. The views I see are incredible, and definitely some of the best I’ve seen since Los Cabos. These moments help me clear my mind, reconnect with myself, and take a break from everything I have to do. I feel like I’ve grown so much because, being on the other side of the world, I have to deal with many responsibilities. Now, as an adult, I have to go from office to office to sign, submit, or receive documents. Even though it’s sometimes tiring, I feel proud to be making progress and gradually finishing everything.

This month, I also participated in events from different clubs that helped me expand my creativity: I took courses to make steel bracelets, attended talks at the IE Wellness Club, photography classes at the Mirador de Alcalá thanks to the Photo Club, and art classes. All these activities allowed me to explore new ideas, learn different things, and have fun while growing in what I’m passionate about.

In summary, October taught me that even when there are difficult moments, there are always opportunities to learn and enjoy life. I learned to stay focused, stay positive, manage my money more efficiently, enjoy cooking, and make the most out of every project and experience.