1. How would you describe the impact that BEO had on your life before and after the competition?
Initially, BEO transformed my perspective on studying abroad. Before it, I was sure that I wanted to study in Venezuela and do a master in another country, but after seeing the environment, how it was to live in a college’s dorm, at the same time how amazing it was to meet new people and, feeling that all that preparation for the contest had a reward, my perspective shifted. I’m currently studying abroad in Germany at Constructor University, so now you can imagine how it went for me.
BEO left me, as well, many thoughts about my own identity and how I managed to solve problems. It helped me to start improving not only my English, but also my social skills. I still remember those days with happiness and nostalgia.
2. What can you share about the preparation process? How demanding was it?
I’d say that the most demanding parts were public speaking and improvisation activities. Since it’s been three years of my participation, some de tails are unclear, but the intensity remains clear. On a scale from 1 to 10, I would rate the difficulty at 7. It mostly lays in breaking through stage fright and learning to express my ideas without hesitation. Also, putting my creativity in a proper field to grow, as well as constant refinement of my delivery and grammar.
Another crucial skill was note-taking. It sounds simple, but it is fundamental; you have to be incredibly attentive to the judges’ feedback to improve the next round. This is vital for the semifinals and finals, where tasks might be repeated or built upon. Being part of the first BEO delegation after the pandemic was harder, but we gave it our absolute best.
3. Looking back, how did BEO provide you with tools to improve your communication and other aspects of your life?
I divide the benefits into two categories: Campus Experience and Competition.
- Campus Experience: This is where you find «your people.» You build new connections and witness different behaviors and problem-solving approaches you didn’t even know existed. My advice is to enjoy this fully, but with responsibility and awareness of your actions.
- The Competition: The contests force you to improve your public speaking, body language, and self -confidence. I believe creativity is the first thing that improves during prep.
BEO pushed me out of my comfort zone. It was the spark that encouraged me to move abroad, providing a space where I could div e into new ideas and get a glimpse of what I wanted for my future.
4. What are some recommendations you could give to anyone interested in participating in the competition?
Try it. Give it everything you have. This is a place for discipline and commitment. If you have big ambitions or want to meet people from different cultures while working toward a common goal, this is the place for you.
Regarding the contest itself: Don’t be intimidated by schools that seem «professional» or more experienced. You are just as capable, but you must work hard. See them as an opportunity to learn and evolve. Be creative, always have a plan B or C, and practice until your cells can bring the speech by heart!
On a practical note for traveling in Europe: You’ll have trips to many cities, like London or Brighton. Explore the city, and
always ensure where your teammates are. Do your research on public transport (Google Maps and Apple Maps are lifesavers). Stay with
your group, listen to your teachers, and communicate constantly with your teammates.
5. Could you share one of your caring memories from the competition, maybe something funny or life-changing about your time at BEO?
A life-changing moment for me took place when we lost the semifinals. I spent 3 days overthinking it. I thought that maybe if we made another presentation which I was part of, it would be different, or that it was not even our fault. The thing is, I blamed myself for something that I couldn’t control. This taught me to set higher standards for myself in everything I do.
6. As a former BEO delegate, what could you tell students that soon will be part of that experience?
Be prepared for the following!
- Jetlag issue: When you arrive in Europe, you’ll feel jetlag; it will be difficult to catch up with the new sleeping time you’ll have.
- Low temperature: At the campus, you’ll freeze; the sense of 7 degrees is not easy! But you’ll get used to it. Bring some heavy coats and enough thermal clothes.
- Feeling overwhelmed: Moving to another region is never easy, even though it’s only for 2 weeks. You’ might feel far away from your family and close friends, but it’s important to talk about it if necessary. Never stop talking when you need it. Stay connected with the people you went with and enjoy!
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