Alejandra Castaneda (Salvador – GLODEP Cohort 2020–2022)

Joining the GLODEP program marked the beginning of an exciting, internationally‑focused chapter in my life. It became the key steppingstone that propelled my career forward and opened the door to my current role as Counselor at the Permanent Mission of my country to the World Trade Organization handling,issues as Market Access, Agriculture, E-commerce among others.

Throughout the program, GLODEP exposed me to a wide spectrum of opportunities and equipped me with a solid foundation across multiple fields. Given my background, I chose to specialize in international trade. Between the second and third semesters, during the summer break, I secured an internship at the Permanent Mission of El Salvador in Geneva — which is now my workplace. Later, during my fourth semester and while writing my thesis, I completed another internship at the International Trade Centre (ITC).

Looking back, it was truly a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience. Each country in the program has its own personality, and in Olomouc — my first stop — the professors, the university, and the entire GLODEP team were incredibly supportive, both academically and personally. During the two years, you feel it’s worth it — but when you finally discover your path, and what you want to do, everything clicks. It’s a game changer.

This program is a remarkable opportunity. The GLODEP team works with passion and excellence, and I can only encourage others to apply.