Emily Snyder represents a new generation of globally minded young professionals who move seamlessly between countries, cultures, and careers. American by origin, European by choice, and now firmly rooted in Monaco, her journey blends academic ambition, sports, digital media, and a deeply international outlook on life.
Emily Snyder grew up in North Carolina, where she studied at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a bachelor’s degree with a double major in Advertising & Public Relations and Sports Administration. Even then, her path was clearly international.
During her junior year, Emily completed an internship in Barcelona, an experience that accelerated her desire to live abroad. While researching European master’s programs in sports business, she discovered the International University of Monaco, almost by chance.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey to Monaco?
“I grew up in North Carolina and studied at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, where I earned my bachelor’s degree with a double major in Advertising & Public Relations and Sports Administration.
During my junior year at UNC, I decided that I wanted to move abroad. I always knew I wanted to live somewhere in Europe, but I wasn’t sure where.
In the summer of my junior year, I did an internship in Barcelona. Before going there, I discovered the University of Monaco through a Google search while looking for European universities offering master’s programs in sports business. I found options in Monaco, Copenhagen, and Paris.
Ultimately, I chose Monaco mainly because of the weather. I knew I wanted to be somewhere warm. If I had stayed in the U.S., I probably would have moved to Florida for the same reason.
That was around April 2022. In May 2022, I moved to Spain for my internship. While there, my friends and I planned weekend trips, and I suggested visiting Monaco to see if I would like living there for school.
We visited Monaco that weekend, and I loved it. I even met my boyfriend during that trip. Afterward, I returned to UNC, finished my bachelor’s degree a semester early, and graduated in December 2022.
After graduation, I started working remotely for a few marketing companies while traveling more, as my boyfriend was playing tennis internationally. I was still based in North Carolina but traveled frequently.
Finally, I moved to Monaco in June 2023 and started my master’s program in September 2023.
So yes, the main appeal was the weather, funny enough. I had visited Monaco briefly with my family years ago during a cruise stop, so I already had a good feeling about it. I liked that it had a French vibe but also an international influence, which was important to me because I wanted cultural immersion while still being part of an international community at the university.”
A short visit to Monaco in the summer of 2022 confirmed her instinct. She fell in love with the Principality’s balance of elegance and accessibility, and returned to the U.S. to complete her degree early, graduating in December 2022.
What were your first impressions when you arrived in the Principality?
“I had visited Monaco briefly before with my family for about 12 hours, and then again during the summer of 2022. I also came back a few times before officially moving here in the summer of 2023.
When I first arrived, I was a bit nervous; it’s a new place, and you need to find the spots you like. Luckily, I had been here several times before, so I already knew a few cafes and restaurants. Over time, I started discovering what I liked and didn’t like.
Meeting people through the school was really nice once the program started in September. I lived with two roommates – a Canadian and an American – which made the transition comfortable because we shared similar backgrounds.”
After graduation, Emily began working remotely for marketing companies while travelling internationally. In June 2023, she officially moved to Monaco, beginning her master’s program at IUM in September 2023.
How did your friends and family react when you told them you were moving to Monaco?
“My family wasn’t surprised at all. The first time I ever came to Europe was in 2015 for my sister’s high school graduation trip. I remember telling my mom, ‘I’m moving somewhere in Europe. I don’t know where, but I’m moving.’
Even in high school, my yearbook superlative was “Most likely to interview a professional athlete in a foreign country,” because I was studying sports and always wanted to live abroad.
So, most of my close friends and family expected it. On the other hand, people who didn’t know me as well were shocked – like, ‘Monaco? You’re crazy! You’re moving 15 hours away from home!’ So, reactions were mixed, but those closest to me weren’t surprised.”
Although Monaco was not entirely new to her, moving there permanently came with natural apprehension. Living with international roommates and meeting classmates from across the world eased the transition.
Looking back at your studies, what class or experience shaped you the most?
“There were core classes that felt repetitive compared to what I had studied in the U.S., but the ones that really shaped me were taught by industry professionals, people who actually work in sports business.
Hearing their experiences and learning about the different roles they’ve had in the industry was incredibly valuable. Those classes gave me real-world insights that went beyond theory.
You could really understand what they went through. They shared stories and connected them to what we were learning in class, making everything more practical and relatable.”
A graduate of the International University of Monaco, Emily is also known for her work in digital content creation and marketing, and for navigating a life shaped by travel, international sport, and entrepreneurship. Today, she balances professional independence with a life lived across borders, quietly redefining what it means to build a career in a global era.
You are a content creator with a growing community. How did you first get into digital content and storytelling?
“The first videos that started gaining attention were about my life at the University of Monaco. I would post “day in my life” videos, like my walk to school. One of the first viral videos was simply my walk to school in Monaco, and people were surprised; many didn’t even know there was a school in Monaco, or that it was English-speaking rather than French-speaking.
That’s how I initially got attention. Later, when I finished school, I adapted my content to show realistic days in Monaco or days as an intern. Over time, I also started posting content related to my boyfriend’s tennis career and general lifestyle trends.”
What type of content do you love creating the most; lifestyle, travel, or sports-related projects?
“Definitely lifestyle. I do a lot of “day in my life” videos and like showing small, everyday details, even boring things. For example, I posted a video showing the price of pesto in Monaco, and people were shocked at how expensive it was. That kind of realistic content is fun for me and resonates with people.”
Do you feel that studying in Monaco offers a more international perspective compared to American universities?
“It’s definitely different. My U.S. university had about 30,000 students, while here it’s around 1,000; a huge difference. But even though it’s a small school, it’s very diverse. In my class alone, there were students from South Africa, France, Italy, Germany, Austria, the U.S., Canada, Mexico, really from all over.
You feel the international aspect more here because of the smaller community and class sizes. In the U.S., it was also international, but in Monaco, it’s more noticeable and immersive.”
You also manage social media in the sports environment. Can you tell us about that side of your work?
“During my bachelor’s at UNC, I worked for a program called Go Heels, which was mainly run by students. We managed social media platforms for many sporting events, creating content, photography, videos, and ideas.
Originally, I wanted to go into broadcast journalism, sideline reporting or TV reporting for sports, but later decided to gain experience in other areas. That’s when I discovered I really enjoyed social media and interviews, especially for digital content.
I started working for other people doing social media management, not always sports-related. Then, when I moved to Monaco, I had the opportunity to work on sports events like Formula E, Historic Grand Prix, and Formula One.
Starting in January, I’ll also be managing my boyfriend’s accounts, which will be interesting but fun since sports are my passion and social media is something I do every day for work.”
Do you have a favorite sport?
“Well, now I have to say tennis because of my boyfriend! But growing up, I played soccer (football), swam, and did gymnastics - so it was a mix of things. Soccer and swimming were probably my favorites.”
Sports fans can be very engaged online; how do you approach building an authentic connection with them through content?
“It’s definitely challenging and depends on the context. The sports world is becoming more popular in the content creation space, and people pay more attention to creators who focus on sports.
However, you have to be careful because fans can be extremely passionate about who they support. So, it’s a fine line - you need to create engaging content while respecting boundaries and maintaining authenticity.”
How would you describe your life in Monaco? What makes this place feel like home?
“My life here is pretty normal, which is why I make realistic ‘day in my life’ videos. I wake up, have breakfast, go for a run or walk, and then do my online work. Sometimes I meet friends for lunch or coffee, then finish work or do chores like cleaning or grocery shopping.
Of course, there are special moments too, like the Christmas market, fairs, and local events that make Monaco feel unique.
Ultimately, I believe people make the place. Having a good group of friends here really makes it feel like home.”
Do you have any favorite spots for coffee or lunch in Monaco?
“Yes! I probably go to Cova the most. For dinner, I used to go to Giacomo a lot, though that’s changed now. One of my favorite places is Amazónico, where we had my graduation dinner with my family.
For lunch, I often go to Salad In or ICI that’s our classic spots. I also keep a list of recommendations for friends who visit Monaco, so I love trying new places too.”
Your lifestyle includes a lot of travelling, especially with tournaments around the world. How do you prepare for long international tours?
“I always make sure to be prepared. I have a bag that’s basically a mini pharmacy with everything you could possibly need; just in case. Thankfully, I rarely have issues, but it’s good to have it.
I also pack a small bag with essentials like my camera and headphones. For long flights, preparation is key. At this point, even a six-hour flight feels short because we’re used to trips like Australia, which is at least 14 hours.
When it comes to clothes, I try to pack smart—mix-and-match outfits so I don’t overpack. Comfort and practicality are the most important things.”
For the winter season, you spent two months between Australia and the US; what were you most excited about for these trips?
“I love summer in Australia! Last year was my first time there, and I only saw Melbourne. This year, we visited Brisbane, Adelaide, and Melbourne, so was excited to explore more of the country.
After Australia, we headed to the U.S., and I was really looked forward to the Indian Wells tournament in California; it was my first time there. People say it’s like the ‘fifth Grand Slam,’ so I was curious to see if that’s true. It was beautiful and the weather was great.
And then there was Miami, which I’ve been to before; it’s always fun and sunny. So overall, I think it had been an amazing trip!”
What is the most challenging part of constantly being on the move, and what is the most rewarding?
“The hardest part is finding a routine, like figuring out where to work out or do fitness activities in every new place. I love going on walks, which is easier because most big cities are walkable, but maintaining a consistent routine for meals and workouts is tough.
Balancing travel, time zone changes, and daily habits is definitely the biggest challenge.
The most rewarding part is getting to see new places, meet new people, and discover things you didn’t even know existed. That makes all the effort worth it.”
Has living in Monaco changed the way you see the world or your future career?
“Absolutely. Living in Monaco has opened my eyes to how international a place can be and how people from different backgrounds can connect and understand each other; whether through business, school, or sharing ideas.
It’s taught me the importance of cultural understanding in an international community. I love hearing people’s stories and learning about their experiences, which is so different from growing up in the U.S. or any single country.
I feel really fortunate to experience this diversity because it shapes how I see the world and my future career. It’s something you don’t get as much if you stay in one place.”
What are your next plans or professional goals for 2026?
“Since the summer 2025, I finished my internship in May and started working for a UK-based company. It’s a technology system for fleets – it’s flexible, which allows me to work from anywhere. That was ideal for me at the time.
I’ve been working with them for six months in marketing, which is something I’ve always been interested in. Currently, I’m in talks with a friend from university to start a marketing agency and take on more clients since my current role isn’t full-time. Even though I travel a lot, I want to do more, and remote work makes that possible.
We plan to launch the agency soon, and I’m also working on other projects that will hopefully develop in 2026. For now, the marketing agency is my main focus.”
Do you feel integrated into the local community, or more connected to the international student network?
“Right now, I feel more connected to the international student network, but I hope to meet more people in Monaco and open new doors. I love meeting new people and hearing about what they do, so that’s something I want to focus on moving forward.”
What would you say to other American students considering Monaco as a study destination?
“For me, it was about creating an entryway into living and working in Europe. Studying here gave me the chance to make connections and network with people in Monaco, which is essential if you want to move somewhere long-term.
Immersing yourself in the community through education is the best way to understand the culture before making a big move. It’s much harder to just pack up and relocate without that foundation. Studying here helps you build relationships and opens doors for future opportunities.”
Where do you see your career evolving, in content creation, sports management, or maybe a blend of both?
“I think it will continue growing steadily in both areas. Content creation has already helped me meet amazing people, including close friends, and I hope that continues.
Right now, my focus is more on lifestyle content, but I could see myself expanding into other sports-related content in the future.”
What message would you give to young women who want to pursue a career in both sports and digital media?
“Follow your dreams and believe in yourself. If you are determined, you can make it happen. I always knew I wanted to move to Europe and work in sports, so I figured out how to combine those goals and made it work.
Your support system is crucial; family, friends, and the people you surround yourself with can influence your path. I’ve been blessed with supportive people, and that made a huge difference. Find those who believe in you, and never stop believing in yourself.”
Do you think there’s a misconception that Monaco is purely French-speaking?
“Yes, definitely. When I first moved here and told people I was moving to Monaco, many thought I said Morocco! I think in the U.S., especially where I’m from, people don’t really know Monaco unless you say Monte-Carlo.
There’s also a perception that everyone here speaks French, but that’s not true. Monaco is very international, and most people speak English. Honestly, I’ve never been to a place in Monaco where someone didn’t speak English, maybe one person, but then the next person did. So yes, the misconception exists, but the reality is that Monaco is a very global community.”
Monaco was famously linked to the U.S.A. in the 1950s and 60s because of Grace Kelly. Do you think that connection is still alive for younger generations?
“I think Grace Kelly is more present in the cultural memories of older generations. Living here has taught me a lot about her significance, even if it wasn’t something my generation grew up closely connected to. My parents know her and the history because they grew up closer to that era, but for younger people, it’s not a strong connection anymore. Of course, now that I live here, I’ve learned a lot about her, but generally, younger Americans don’t make that link.”
In a world where careers are no longer built in straight lines, Emily Snyder is part of a new wave of international talent shaping their own path across borders and industries. With Monaco as her base and the world as her horizon, she proves that ambition today is as much about adaptability and curiosity as it is about credentials.
Whether she is creating content, building her marketing ventures, or supporting life on the professional tennis tour, Emily moves forward with the same mindset that brought her here in the first place: stay open, stay driven, and build your future one bold decision at a time.