José Pérez Bellido, who completed the Double Degree in Law and International Relations at the Pablo de Olavide University (UPO), has achieved a professional milestone by passing the competitive examinations to access the Diplomatic Corps. Bellido, a member of the first cohort of this double degree (2019-2025), successfully completed the four tests of the examination phase last July and is preparing to begin the selective course at the Diplomatic School as part of its LXXVIII promotion.
With "satisfaction and pride," Bellido faces this new stage, highlighting the opportunity to represent Spain and assist its citizens. "Joy for what has been achieved, but also excitement for what awaits us," he stated. He expressed gratitude for the support received from his personal and academic circles, as well as from "brilliant Spanish diplomats," specifically mentioning "our exceptional diplomat Soledad R" for her significance to the University.
During his studies at UPO, Pérez Bellido cultivated his vocation for international relations, international law, and foreign service. Experiences such as his participation in the UPO-NATO Legal Clinic, the practical orientation of his Final Degree Projects, and an international mobility program in Jerusalem were fundamental. Furthermore, internships undertaken at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation reinforced his decision to focus his career on the Diplomatic Corps.
César Hornero Méndez, Dean of the UPO Faculty of Law, described Bellido's entry as "excellent news" that highlights the "professional possibilities" offered by the Double Degree in Law and International Relations.
The competitive examinations for the Diplomatic Corps are a rigorous process that assesses multiple essential competencies for diplomatic and consular work. The combination of subject matter tests, mandatory languages such as English and French, and essay writing ensures a high level of preparation and multidisciplinary knowledge among candidates.
Dean Hornero Méndez concluded by stating that the Diplomatic Corps represents a "preferential career path" for International Relations students, both in its single major and combined with other degrees offered at the UPO Faculty of Law.
