Universidad
Politécnica de Madrid

06.07.2026

The European Students' Assembly (ESA) has become over the years a key forum for student participation at the European level. Each edition brings together students from different countries to reflect on common challenges and contribute to debates on European policies, strengthening its role as a space for dialogue, collaboration, and citizen participation.

In this latest edition, six EELISA students, the European university alliance coordinated by the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, participated representing the institution. Among the selected students is Ana Tenorio, a student of double degree in Industrial Design and Product Development Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, who wanted to share her experience.

Representing UPM at the European level

"Being selected to participate in the European Students' Assembly (ESA) 2026 was an incredible opportunity and an experience I will always cherish. Out of more than 3,000 applications, only about 250 students were chosen, which made it both an honor and a responsibility: representing my university and contributing to debates with a European scope.

My journey started weeks before arriving in Strasbourg, working remotely with an international team within Panel 2 on Circular Economy. Within the panel, we split into smaller groups to develop policy recommendations. My team focused on 'Design for Repair,' a topic closely related to my training in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design and Product Development."

Through weekly meetings, conversations with experts, and joint writing, we explored how a product's design decisions directly influence sustainability. We realized that many products today are not designed to be repaired, which leads to unnecessary waste. Our proposal focused on making reparability a structural requirement through better product design, showing how engineering decisions can have a real systemic impact.

Environment and international connection

Reaching the European Parliament in Strasbourg made the experience even more meaningful. Sitting in the hemicycle, where European decisions are debated and voted on, was really striking. It helped me better understand how institutions work and how complex policymaking can be. Presenting and voting on proposals with the official system made everything feel real and empowering.

Beyond academics, one of the most valuable parts of ESA was the international environment. Working with students from different countries, cultures, and perspectives challenged me to think differently and communicate more effectively. It made me realize something very important: the world belongs to all of us; if we want real progress, we’ll have to reach agreements, and for that, we need to learn to truly understand and listen to each other.

At the same time, sharing those days in Strasbourg made the experience even more special. Between sessions, we had the chance to explore the city, continue our conversations in a more relaxed way, and build genuine connections. I leave ESA not only with new knowledge but also with friendships that I truly value.

Ana Tenorio is a student in double degree in Industrial Design Engineering and Product Development and Mechanical Engineering at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. She combines technical thinking with creativity and has a strong passion for design, innovation, and making a real impact through engineering, with a special interest in sustainable product development.