El Altillo International School Students Take Part in Forbes Talks x ISP in Madrid on “Leading Your Future: Learning How to Learn”

Students from El Altillo International School took part in the Forbes Talks x ISP event held at Forbes House in Madrid.

Last February, Forbes, in collaboration with ISP Schools, hosted a new edition of Forbes Talks x ISP at Forbes House in Madrid. The event focused on how young people learn, think and make decisions in a world increasingly shaped by digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

Under the title “Lead Your Future: Learning How to Learn”, the event brought together students and experts in education and neuroscience to reflect on how personal and professional futures are shaped during adolescence, one of the most decisive stages of life.

The Neuroscience of Learning and Decision-Making

The keynote speaker was neuroscientist Nazareth Castellanos, who shared an accessible and engaging perspective on how the adolescent brain works and how it relates to learning, emotions and decision-making alongside students from El Altillo International School.

During her talk, she explained that adolescence is neurologically longer than traditionally believed, extending up to the ages of 25 or even 27. She also highlighted the importance of processes such as “neuronal pruning”, through which the brain strengthens frequently used connections while eliminating less active ones.

She also emphasised the importance of daily habits during this stage of development, particularly sleep, nutrition, physical exercise and cognitive stimulation, as key factors in both learning and emotional regulation.

Participation of El Altillo International School Students

Students Julia M., Bruno A. and Alba S. from El Altillo International School actively participated in the event, taking part in the discussion with the neuroscientist and contributing to the different activities proposed throughout the session.

Their contributions provided valuable insight into students’ everyday experiences, particularly regarding the challenges of learning, emotional management during exam periods and the impact of artificial intelligence on education.

Learning How to Learn in Order to Build the Future

The event concluded with a shared reflection: the future is not predicted, it is built. And that process begins with self-awareness, emotional management and the ability to learn how to learn.

“It is very difficult to be completely certain about the decisions we make. That is why it is essential to make them through self-knowledge. We are not machines: listening to ourselves and taking care of our minds is what will truly allow us to become owners of our future,” concluded Nazareth Castellanos.

About Forbes Talks x ISP

Forbes Talks x ISP is an event organised by Forbes in collaboration with ISP Schools and held at Forbes House in Madrid. It brings together students and thought leaders to reflect on how we learn, grow and build our future in a constantly changing world.

In this edition, neuroscientist Nazareth Castellanos encouraged attendees to rethink the idea of a linear career path, highlighting the importance of attention, emotional balance and physical wellbeing as key pillars of learning and conscious decision-making.