Michella Warren just started the new degree in Global Studies at UPF, an innovative programme of the Faculty of Humanities that aims to attract students from all around the world. She is a singular case because she perfectly illustrates the concept of globalism. She was born in Pensacola (Florida) from a native American father, belonging to the Navajo tribe, and a Bahrain immigrant mother.

-You have family roots in different places of the planet. How does this issue help you to integrate into a new social atmosphere?

I am half native American Indian from the Navajo tribe (Apache Navajo), and half Bahraini Arabic. I would say that if this has taught me anything, it’s that you should never judge a book by its cover, and by that I mean people. I have learned different ways of viewing life and the way people see the world as a whole because of my parents’ backgrounds.

Honestly, it has given me an ability to see things from a more non-biased approach. It has made me more empathetic, loving and understanding. I believe that I can relate to more types of people, which allows me to have an advantage almost in any environment.

- What made you decide to come to Barcelona, and specifically to UPF, to take a full undergraduate programme?

I came to Barcelona in hopes for more opportunities and to learn more about Catalonia. I had lived previously in Pamplona and studied Spanish there, and wanted to see another area of Spain. I was very much attracted to the Global Studies degree, as it seems that the students will be trained in various fields of studies.

- Why did you choose Global Studies?

I chose this programme because I believe that in this ever changing world, our people need to be trained in these specific fields, regardless of their careers, in order to have a better understanding and knowledge of the world culture. Our opinions on world culture are typically very limited and unintentionally biased at times. What can we do to change that? I believe this understanding is essential in helping build a better future.

I am a member of the Planetary Society, which is the largest and most effective nonprofit organization that promotes the exploration of space through education. They aim to foster a scientifically literate populace along with creating active roles for the public to help in space exploration. My other interests are helping those who have little or no voice in the public eye and to protect and continue my people’s culture and identity.

- What are your feelings after the first term at UPF?

I’m feeling tired, and in need of a coffee most likely! [she laughs]. I am very happy with our professors. They are very intelligent and insightful. Needless to say, we have so much reading to do!

- How do you face these next three years?

Each year at a time.

- What do you expect from this time at the university? 

I expect to make friendships with classmates who may share the same outlook on the world and become well trained in various fields. I hope to leave the University being well prepared for my goals in the future.

- Talking about the future… How do you see yourself in ten years from now?

I see myself fulfilling my goals and doing things that help shape the future.

Degree in Global Studies video