Remember the Laughters, the Tears, and the Memories We Share

Written by Ana Regina Bucio 
Collective Thoughts, a Publication  Series edited by Dr. Debbie Mendez

Mexico City, DF, Mexico— It was October of 2012, and I was coming back from school, but unlike other days, my parents didn’t pick me up. Anyways, I was so excited to arrive home and see my new baby brother, the sun was shining, my eyes were bright, my feet were eager to run faster, and my arms were ready to hug. When I arrived, I crossed the yard and opened the front door, and a cold breeze came out of the house.

I was looking for my parents until the door to the furthest room opened. There they were, waiting for me with smiles on their faces, but I could see the sadness in their eyes. I ran to their arms and asked them what was wrong, then my eyes dimmed, my feet felt heavy and tired, and my arms fell, unable to hug. My baby brother had gone to heaven that day. I was devastated. Suddenly, I began to think of all the things I could have done with him, all the clothes my parents had bought for him, and the dreams of having a brother that vanished rapidly. The following months felt empty, despite my daily routine remaining the same: going to school, doing homework, taking baths, reading, and sleeping, and on some weekends that we went to the park or watched a movie, something was missing, someone was missing.

I felt guilty about enjoying those moments for months because I wanted my little brother to share them with me. I started to neglect enjoying time with those still around me, mainly my
parents, who I now realize were going through a harder time than I was. I was selfish to think it only affected me. But then, faith came again into our family when one day God blessed me with not one, not two, but three little siblings who make me the happiest person on earth today. They brought light and laughter back into our home. I slowly learned that it was okay to share and rejoice in life again, knowing that my brother was watching over us. Years passed, and later, just when I thought we had begun to heal, my mom received a call from the hospital, but this time it was about my dad. My aunt had brought him there because he had been having a bad pain and when he was admitted by the doctors they told us he had a bad incident going on inside of him and that it was a miracle he was still alive, on the other hand, the procedure they had to do came with a 90% death rate. It was the scariest event we had ever faced, and that made me realize more than ever if I had enjoyed the time with my dad enough and if I was prepared in case the procedure failed. And I realized that you will never be prepared to let someone you love that much go, but that is another story altogether.

Through all of this, my little brother taught me to enjoy every moment of life, be grateful for those who are still with us, and to allow myself to feel the sadness of loss. It's okay to miss
someone and cry their absence, but we must also honor them by living our lives fully. My heart learned that moving forward doesn't mean forgetting, it means carrying their memory with us.
Whether it's talking to them through the stars or sending cards to those far away to remind them they are lovable, just let them know, because we never know when our last moments will be, so it's better to remember the laughters, the tears, and the memories we share, rather than regret the things you wished you had said or done with them.

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Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by UIC student authors. Our blog is open to an array of genres, including fiction, essays, and creative writing pieces. Our blog is an open space for our UIC students to IMAGINE, CREATE, and INSPIRE as they share their creative expressions. The mission of Collective Thoughts is to provide a platform to showcase the unique voice of the developing and emerging writer and to foster the love of writing.

For media inquiries or more information about Colective Thoughts, please contact:

Dr. Deborah Mendez
dmendez@uinternational.edu
English Adjunct Professor

Dr. Marcela Moyano
 Phone: (954) 258-5663
 Email: mmoyano@uinternational.edu
Director of Communication

Mrs. Ana Maria Socha
uicadmissions@uinternational.edu
Phoe: +1(786) 734-7750
Admissions Coordinator

by Marcela Moyano

Super Bowl Champion, Global Graduates, and Unforgettable Stories Define UIC’s 23rd Commencement

Dania Beach, FL — United International College (UIC) proudly held its 23rd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the historic Savor Cinema in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The event celebrated the academic achievements of students from 14 countries, including Bangladesh, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Pakistan, Puerto Rico, Turkey, Vietnam, and Venezuela.

The ceremony began with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner, performed by Alin Turculescu, a UIC alum in International Business Management, native of Romania, and professional singer.

Degrees were conferred upon 35 graduates, including:

  • 15 Associate of Science degrees in Business Administration, International Business Management, and Travel and Tourism Management
  • 6 Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and International Business Management
  • 14 Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees

UIC Co-Founder and President Lydia Bautista Moller addressed the graduates, reflecting on the college’s 25-year educational innovation, diversity, and student transformation journey.

Sylvester Williams, Super Bowl Champion, first-round NFL draft pick, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker, delivered the keynote address. He recounted his extraordinary journey from homelessness to NFL success and urged graduates to lead with discipline, faith, and persistence. “As you embark on this journey, I want you to dream big—bigger than you ever have before… If you stay committed, stay honest, be accountable, believe in your purpose, and never give up, you have a chance,” Williams said.

Undergraduate Student Speaker Valentina Perez shared her journey from the ESL classroom to receiving her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She is the producer of United in Voices, the first student-created podcast at UIC, and an Event Project Coordinator for a California-based corporate event agency.

“To my undergraduate brothers and sisters—together we will represent United International College by taking the journey to success and will apply our knowledge, determination, motivation, enthusiasm, and desire to reach our goals and our dreams. Why? Because we can,” said Perez.
 “This here today represents a milestone not only for me but for all of my ancestors. I have become the very first person from my family to obtain a bachelor’s degree from the United States of America.”

 

Representing the graduate class, Sanjin Alam of Bangladesh offered a moving tribute to perseverance in the face of adversity. She completed her MBA while her mother and brother were battling cancer, and was grieving the loss of her father.

“Being a woman who returned to academics after a long break, I have realized that the strength we need is already within us—we just need the courage to believe in it,” Alam said. “To all the dreamers out there, know this: one small step taken with purpose can lead to unimaginable change. Whether it’s helping one person or impacting thousands, every act of kindness matters.”

 

The full ceremony can be viewed on UIC’s official YouTube channel.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
 Dr. Marcela Moyano
 Phone: (954) 258-5663
 Email: mmoyano@uinternational.edu

For admissions information, please contact
Mrs. Ana Maria Socha
uicadmissions@uinternational.edu
Phoe: +1(786) 734-7750

by Marcela Moyano

Super Bowl Champion Sylvester Williams to Inspire UIC Graduates at 23rd Commencement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 April 30, 2025

United International College to Hold XXIII Commencement Ceremony on May 3rd in Fort Lauderdale

Dania Beach, FL — United International College (UIC) proudly announces its XXIII Commencement Ceremony, to be held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the historic Savor Cinema, located at 503 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.

This year, the college will celebrate the academic achievements of students representing 14 countries, including Bangladesh, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Pakistan, Puerto Rico, Turkey, Vietnam, and Venezuela.

UIC will confer degrees to 35 graduating students, including:

  • 15 Associate of Science degrees in Business Administration, International Business Management, and Travel and Tourism Management.
  • 6 Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and International Business Management.
  • 14 Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees.

Lydia Bautista Moller, Co-Founder and President of United International College, will address the graduating Class of 2025. Bautista founded United International College in 2000, opening its first campus in Davie. This August, the college will celebrate its 25th anniversary under her leadership.

UIC is honored to welcome Sylvester Williams as its 2025 Commencement Speaker. Williams is a Super Bowl Champion, NFL first-round draft pick, successful entrepreneur, and nationally acclaimed motivational speaker. His powerful journey from poverty and hardship to the NFL’s biggest stage is a testament to resilience, faith, and determination. Today, he inspires audiences across the nation to push boundaries and lead with a champion’s mindset.

This year’s Undergraduate Student Speaker, Valentina Perez, will share her inspiring academic journey. A graduate of the ESL program at United Language Institute and now a recipient of the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Valentina is the producer and director of the United in Voices podcast, the first-ever student-produced podcast at UIC. She is an Event Project Coordinator of Go Gather,  a full-service corporate event management agency based in California.

Representing the graduate class, Sanjin Alam, from Bangladesh, will serve as the Graduate Student Speaker. Sanjin will be awarded an MBA for her outstanding research on consumer reviews in the digital era, offering practical strategies for businesses to enhance competitive positioning, long-term growth, and customer satisfaction in today’s digital economy.

"As an international student, completing my MBA at United International College has been a journey of transformation and resilience. The supportive environment, dedicated faculty, and diverse community at UIC played a vital role in helping me overcome challenges, adapt to new experiences, and ultimately achieve this milestone with confidence and purpose," adds Alam.

Following the ceremony, graduates and guests are invited to take photos in the beautiful courtyard of Savor Cinema, located just a block from Fort Lauderdale’s scenic New River. The celebration will continue at Masa & More, a charming waterfront restaurant offering a 10% discount to all UIC guests. Reservations are required at (754) 200-5931.

Access the XXIII Commencement Ceremony of United International College program 
The ceremony will be streamed live on YouTube at UIC's YouTube Channel

For media inquiries or more information about the event, please contact:
 Dr. Marcela Moyano
 Phone: (954) 258-5663
 Email: mmoyano@uinternational.edu

by Marcela Moyano

United International College Hosted Pitch & Thrive Business Expo Showcasing Student Entrepreneurs

Dania Beach, FL — Students enrolled in the Entrepreneurship, Creativity, and Innovation course at United International College, led by Professor Jack Rose, hosted the Pitch & Thrive Business Expo on Friday, April 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the college’s new campus at 249 South Federal Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004.

At the Expo, students presented their business ideas, outlining their primary and secondary target markets, the products and/or services they offered, and their five-year visions for growth. The event provided students real-world experience pitching their ventures while engaging with the community and receiving valuable feedback.

Professor Jack Rose emphasized both the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, stating, “Opening a business is a challenge, but for long-term success, the most important ingredient is growing your business.” He added, “Demographics change frequently, and data analytics are crucial. You need to know what you're selling, who your customers are, who could become your customers, how to build lasting relationships, how to expand product lines, and the importance of maintaining a strong customer database. Most importantly, listen to what your customers are trying to tell you.”

This year’s Expo featured the most diverse and innovative range of student-led business concepts. Many international students developed ideas for businesses in their home countries, researching relevant regulations and market dynamics to support their plans.

To highlight the event’s theme of innovation and practical application, each student showcased their unique entrepreneurial journey through detailed business models. From fashion and fitness to food delivery and financial technology, the ventures reflected a wide spectrum of industries, underscoring the students’ diverse backgrounds and interests. These ventures not only embodied the course's core principles—creativity, adaptability, and vision—but also offered attendees a glimpse into the future of global entrepreneurship through the lens of the next generation of business leaders.

Student Ventures Featured at the Expo Included:

  • Football Link – Marcelo’s athlete management agency launched in São Paulo, Brazil, connecting players with teams through a global network of clubs and universities, with future expansion plans in the Americas and Europe.

  • Instant Classic – Dominic’s vintage retail business specializing in collectibles, apparel, and accessories targeting Generation Z and high school drama departments, with plans to open stores in major U.S. cities and an e-commerce platform.

  • Campos Tennis Academy – A high-quality tennis training center aiming to develop skills, community, and sportsmanship across all ages and levels.

  • Ecotourism – A custom travel experience business focused on sustainability, eco-lodging, and conservation, with goals to expand internationally.

  • FanEscape – Mariana Diaz’s luxury sports travel concierge service, offering curated experiences for sports fans worldwide.

  • Healthvery – A personalized health-focused meal delivery service offering dietary consultations and collaborations with healthcare providers.

  • Titan Forge Fitness – A high-performance training facility providing expert-led strength and conditioning programs for athletes and enthusiasts alike.

  • Plus Ultra – Andre’s athletic supplement brand featuring fast-dissolving tablets and gummies designed to enhance performance, starting in Fort Myers.

  • MG Waterspots – A cold therapy brand specializing in ice bath tubs for athletes and wellness seekers, with plans to expand from Hollywood, FL, to a nationwide online and showroom presence.

  • Sharif’s Auto Solutions – A car sales and service business offering pre-owned vehicles, maintenance, and customer-first support.

  • Techtonic Shift – Rakibul Islam’s electronics company offering phones, laptops, and accessories, with a customer-focused, global growth strategy.

  • Next Level Soccer Training – Carly Jure’s private soccer training business for youth athletes, launching in Miami with regional expansion plans.

  • Daljinsko Upravljanje d.o.o. – Dora Kos’s European-based distributor of reliable, high-quality electronics, committed to excellent logistics and customer care.

  • Trusted Lawyers – Jairo Martinez’s Miami law firm offers personal injury legal services with a strong record of trial success and client advocacy.

  • USA Shopping – Kevin Mejia’s international shipping company facilitates the purchase of exclusive U.S. goods for customers in Colombia.

  • Da Jungle Boxing Club – Nicholas Moultry’s professional-level boxing academy based in Miami, focused on building talent and promoting boxing as a positive outlet.

  • Pari Couture – Parnya Nadeem’s custom fashion brand blending elegance and sustainability through couture and ready-to-wear collections.

  • ThermoKicks – Roberto Oviedo’s tech-fashion hybrid that uses thermochemical materials in footwear to change color with temperature, merging style and innovation.

  • Athleisure Avenue – Damon Phillips’s urban apparel retail business offering high-end sneakers and sportswear in Miami, with ambitions to rival major U.S. chains.

  • EcoThread Apparel – Zahidul Rizve’s sustainable clothing brand uses organic and recycled materials to promote conscious fashion.

  • LGR WORLD – Leonardo Gondos Rodrigues’s bold streetwear label targeting youth who value style, cultural influence, and self-expression.

  • Sanda’s Crypto Hub – Filip Sanda’s educational platform for beginners in Web3 and crypto, focused on the Solana blockchain, with free resources available.

  • Jordan’s Auto Shine – Jordan Washington’s mobile and on-site premium car detailing service offering high-end treatments for luxury vehicles.

For media inquiries or more information about the event, please contact:

United International College
Public Relations Office
publicrelations@uinternational.edu

by Marcela Moyano

Learning and its Creative Process

Written by Prof. Dr. Marcela Moyano

Miramar, FL –

The President’s Graduation Reception took place on Friday, June 28th at 10:00 a.m. at the J. Alberto Moyano Auditorium. 

The event started with the pitching of the Business Expo students enrolled in Prof. Jack Rose who meticulously had put together their business ventures displays at the Summer Business Expo 2024. Watch a video of each of the student entrepreneurs in Prof. Rose’s blog post  on the Business Expo.

Followed by the student business pitching, the Wired: Satisfying Narratives Through Shapes, Colors, and Textures art gallery was officially opened and artists, Andres Zorrilla, Fernando Zicarelli, and Charly Silva were introduced. Art dealer and manager German Chavez from Colour Senses Project was also introduced and Dr. Marcela Moyano, Director of Communications of United International College thanked him and the artists for their support in enhancing the arts at UIC. 

Then, Prof. Rose commemorated President Lydia Bautista Möller and mentioned that United International College is about leadership that starts with UIC’s president. He said that leadership channels in the kind of team work that can be witnessed in events such as the President’s Graduation Reception. 

Right after Prof. Rose’s words, Dr. Marcela Moyano introduced the Documentary course that Communications and Mass Media students take as part of their last requirement of the program and presented senior students, Valerie Seguin, film Director, and Renata Diniz, film Assistant Director. 

During the course of six weeks, the students learned about the theory and historical background of the art of documentary production and produced United in Diversity: Voices of International UIC Students. The film features five students native to Colombia, Venezuela, Haiti, Romania, and Russia. The purpose of the documentary is to portray the journey of international students from the moment they decide to embark on the journey of studying in the United States and explore all the challenges and opportunities they encounter along the way. 

The students opened up during interviews with Valerie Seguin and shared their most intimate emotions of their journey. The documentary is an uplifting piece of work that demonstrates to other international students of how their experience is alike and inspires students around the world to embark in such daring journeys that certainly elevates their life. 

Angelica Moyano, Provost of United International College is featured in the film and shares the history of UIC throughout its 24 years of having been established in South Florida and its passion for serving international students. 

The running time of the documentary is 32:02 minutes. After the screening, the audience asked questions to the filmmakers and Ana Maria Socha who was one of the students featured in the film. Everyone in the auditorium was moved and congratulated the filmmaker for having accomplished such a film in a short frame of time. They also thanked Ana Maria Socha and the other students for sharing their personal experiences in the film. 

The reception concluded and everyone was looking forward to celebration the XXII Commencement Ceremony on the very next day. A few of the students who participated in this event were graduating. 

by Marcela Moyano

Future Entrepreneurs Showcase their Business Ventures

Written by Prof. Jack Rose

Miramar, FL – The Summer 2024 term, at United International College, ended with the largest Business Expo in the college’s history, when 22 budding entrepreneurs showcased their businesses to visitors attending the Expo.

Under the direction of Professor Jack J. Rose, students learned not only the challenges of opening up a new business, but the importance of growing their business to achieve a higher level of success. Students had to submit their product/service for approval and identify their primary and secondary target markets. Ongoing marketing research was a key ingredient that Professor Rose emphasized, since each location has different clientele. As a former buyer, he stressed the importance of a merchandise plan, and knowing everything about their customers. Today, localization marketing is the key to all businesses having more than one location. 

From an economic standpoint, most cities want businesses to come to their community to boost the economy – providing employment and becoming involved community members. Globally, student must know the laws of each city/country, and the importance of knowing what marketing techniques are best to reach the target customer.

Chikamo Farms is the brainchild of Kumawuese Chiattitor. The farm specializes in producing organic vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, pepper, carrots, different bean varieties, and celery.

At the Expo, Kuma spoke with Thai Tran, the founder of Chao, featuring traditional Vietnamese Cuisine. Since Thai’s business is built on quality ingredients, a “marriage” was made between the two entrepreneurs.

Diana Carolina Enciso’s Exquisite Clean is a high-end luxury cleaning service and exclusive provider of cleaning and maintenance solutions for luxury home and properties located in the affluent neighborhoods of South Florida.

Rank Marathon Digital Solutions is the service provider created by Sadat Fahim. His company offers a comprehensive range of marketing services, including, but not limited to, Website Audit, Email Marketing, Influencer Marketing, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media Marketing, On-Page SEO, Of-Page SEO, Google Ads, and META ads. Rank Marathon’s goal is to provide convenient and effective marketing solutions for start-ups and established companies.

Nicholas Lamont Gravely’s 2047 Restaurant is the fulfillment of his dream to open a restaurant featuring American and Soul food, and become an important member of the community by being open 24 hour — serving breakfast, lunch and dinner 24/7. Every item arrives from the kitchen freshly made with the finest ingredients and love. Most important is the customer service experience to keep his customers returning to his business.

SnackSmart’s motto is “Fuel Your Day the Smart Way” and founder Jahed Hosson’s company provides vending machines to any company or organization that wants to promote healthy choices to their employees. These machines offer a wide-range of products, including organic snacks, gluten-free options, protein bars, fresh fruits, and natural beverages.

Sam’s Sweet Bakery attracted many attendees since they were invited to sample some of Samantha Igor’s delectable creations. Her slogan, “Find Happiness in Every Bite” came to fruition as each visitor sampled her baked goods. Within five years, Sam intends to build a great marketing brand and be an active member of the community.

Tanjim Ul Kahn’s Green Buds Waste company specializes in repurposing cigarette butts into a range of eco-friendly products including keyrings, mosquito repellants, pillows, dolls and more. By recycling these discarded butts, the company not only reduces environmental pollution, but also creates unique and sustainable items that serve various purposes.

Zen Rolls is looking to be the premiere establishment for sushi rolls. The brainchild of Maria Paula Malaver, her goal is to become the go-to place for real hand rolls, where besides the traditional rolls, customers will have the opportunity to sample different rolls, all made of the finest quality ingredients.

Marrying his love of baseball and his dream of owning a restaurant, Anthony Monroy, plans to open All Star Kitchens, using a baseball theme motif throughout the venue. His target market are families, students, and tourists who enjoy experiencing different cuisines in a friendly, inviting atmosphere. His future growth of his company includes becoming a source for family events, company picnic, and community events as the only source for successful events in the area.

Aqua Flow Essentials is a business that Benjamin Morganti is extremely excited about since his passion for water sports lit the lightbulb of excitement for his business as an entrepreneur. His tagline, “Flowing Towards Efficiency – Unlocking the Power of Fluid Dynamics for a Sustainable Future” aptly states the intention for his business. Benjamin sees his business location on the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk offering top-quality paddle boards, water sports clothing, and extreme sports gear. His future goal is to grow his business within other beachfront locations throughout Florida and beyond.

Carolina Posse’s Inner Journey Expeditions is a travel agency that seeks to sell tours for women to erotic destinations or with a spiritual vibe, not only to get to know the destination, but to make a healing workshop on different topics such as female lineage, healing of the uterus, healing of father and mother, etc. Her target market is the group of Latin women (because tours will be in Spanish), over 35 years of age, and who are in search for their lkigai (purpose of life).

David Rhead’s Hills and Valleys clothing company reflects his religious beliefs and looks forward to spreading the word throughout the USA and Canada by helping others represent their faith. His target market are Christians, ages 20-35, and is convinced his slogan, “Put God First” will attract more people to love and believe in their faith.

Mikael Silva’s MSS Soccer Club, fulfills the dreams of this Brazilian Soccer player who wants to develop talents for this sport. His ambitious goals are to start with five youngsters that he will coach, and grow MSS Soccer Club in five years to ten coaches, each having a group of 50 kids. With his drive, hard work, and motivation, Mikael will succeed in developing players for not only Brazil, but the world.

Artem Sorokin has created JumpBall Agency to assist athletes to locate schools in the USA and Europe where they can receive a great education and participate in the college of university’s basketball program. A member of the United International College’s basketball team, Artem has the experience in knowledge in navigating this goal for so many young people.

Elite Skills FL was created by Elias Vera and his tagline, “Create Your Own Path,” mirrors his goal for training young athletes interested in basketball, with an emphasis on skills development, fitness training, and competitiveness drills. Within five years, Elias sees Elite Skills FL becoming the only destination for basketball training in the region, expanding their services to include summer camps, specialized coaching programs, and partnerships with school and youth leagues.

by Marcela Moyano

It Takes a Village and Gratitude to Get to Commencement Day: UIC Celebrates its XXII Commencement Ceremony

Written by Dr. Marcela Moyano

Miramar, Florida – United International College held its 22nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 29th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the Savor Cinema Fort Lauderdale, 503 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 awarding Master,  Bachelor, and Associate degrees to 34 students representing the USA, Pakistan, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Canada, Bangladesh, China, Romania, France, Haiti, Vietnam, Colombia, Brazil, and Honduras. 

The ceremony was opened with the interpretation of the National Anthem of the United States, the Star Spangled Banner by Alin Turculescu, a former Romanian folklore music singer and Business Administration Bachelor Degree recipient. 

UIC’s co-founder and President, Lydia Bautista Moller, delivered her speech and started by congratulating the Class of 2024. She accoladed the UIC Eagle Rays and mentioned her own love for the sport of Basketball. She also urged the students to always look for what makes them happy as the Holistic Model of Education of UIC teaches. 

Jean Souffrant, the Executive Director at Pierre Toussaint Leadership and Learning Center, and Director of Notre Dame D’Haiti Catholic Church served as the Commencement Speaker. He works alongside Father Reginald Jean-Mary who has been an influential agent of change in the Haitian diaspora in the United States, always bringing together Haitian migrants and prominent leaders , and empowering them with a message of hope from a powerful spiritual faith. 

Souffrant started his speech singing a religious song, delivered an empowering speech motivating students to always continue reaching their dreams, and concluded his speech with a teaching of Apostle Paul by stating that “in everything that you do, always maintain an attitude of gratitude…never forget where you came from.” 

Luis Hernandez was the Magna Cum Laude Business Administration Undergraduate Commencement Speaker. Hernandez is an Eagle Ray Baseball student athlete who shared in his speech the nuances of his daily work being a student athlete to reach the moment of his commencement ceremony from his associate in Business Administration. (a dream com true)

Hernandez mentioned that he had arrived from Venezuela as an international student to play baseball. He told the graduating class of 2024 that anyone in the world would love the chance to be in their place as graduates from UIC in the United States. He also recognized that students’ workload and responsibilities might seem stressful and over achievable and added: “we will always find a way to accomplish everything we desire and succeed.” 

You can learn about Luis’ journey as an Eagle Ray Baseball student athlete in a blog post that Prof. Jack Rose wrote about him after interviewing him. Learn about Luis

Angelica Moyano, the Provost of UIC, awarded the diplomas to students. The President guided the Alumni Oath, and the Graduating Class recognized Faculty and family members for their support throughout the years. The ceremony concluded with a sense of accomplishment and immense joy. 

Ximena Caraballo, an alumna from the Communications and Mass Media program, volunteered to conduct the media coverage and live stream of the ceremony. A fine team of volunteers joined to facilitate the Commencement Ceremony including UIC students, staff, and members of the community, including Detective Yesenia Diaz, from the Miramar Police Department of the City of Miramar. 

UIC Eagle Rays have a home away from home and they are always welcome back to study another degree or to share their life stories with their UIC family.

by Marcela Moyano

Discipline Motivates Achievement

Written by Prof. Jack Rose

Miramar, Florida – There are times when I just need to take a break and recharge my batteries, like the Energizer Bunny. For me, this usually happens during football season when I can wake up, shower, and crawl in bed for the day to watch the games. However, as a professor, I tell students that I have learned more in my lifetime by listening and observing. While books are important, listening to others, observing what is happening in our environment brings more knowledge, and important life skills.

Luis Hernandez during his Mock Interview assignment with Prof. Rose in the Business Communication course.

While students are number one, each student is an individual and must be challenged to reach a high altitude. Then, there are those who truly amaze me and I wish I can clone them. Knowing that I cannot, I decided to interview Luis Alejandro Hernandez, a member of our UIIC Baseball Team, a catcher and second baseman, to find out how Luis manages to succeed on the field, in the classroom, at his job, and with his peers.

Luis was born in Venezuela and came to United International College last year, as a Business Administration major, not only to obtain his college degree, but to be a member of a college baseball team. At 21 years old, Luis has set many goals for himself and strives to achieve them. Having had Luis in different classes, and aware of his position on the baseball team, Luis shared with me that he also works. He just doesn’t have a job; he is a manager and shared with me how he practices customer service excellence and instills that to his team.

Luis Hernandez, Manager of Cien Montaditos, Miami Lakes Branch.

Luis takes pride in his strong work ethics, which contributed to his advancement to a management position at 100 Montaditos Restaurant in Miami Lakes. Starting as a cook, Luis developed his culinary skills, and was promoted to kitchen leader, and began showcasing his leadership abilities. Noticed and impressed by his ability to multi-task and his belief that the customer must leave happy, Luis became a manager, not only responsible for the training and development of new employees, but accepted the challenge to work with his existing team and challenged staff to exceed customer service excellence. He also accepted the responsibility of the entire operations of the restaurant, from working with vendors and suppliers, to planning the daily and weekly menus.

I asked Luis how he manages to do everything, and do it well. He quickly answered, “Discipline” and then continued to state, “I strongly believe in discipline that can truly drive responsibility,” and he confides that past teachers and professors have noticed that about him.

Luis Hernandez plays as Catcher and Infielder of the UIC Eagle Rays Baseball Team.

Luis lives by a philosophy that he has instilled in himself. “Be better and be the best,” and explains, “It doesn’t matter what people do to you, but I have to be better and not do the same thing to another person. “I have to be better because I want to assure myself that in every aspect of my life/career, I will give my best efforts to be good at it, and do my best. 

Luis concludes by saying something that really hit home. “What motivates me is the sense of discipline, and making my family, people around me, and myself, proud of everything I do as well as the desire of accomplishing the kind of life I want to have.”

In speaking with other professors, when the name of Luis Hernandez is mentioned, the positive feedback is immediate reflected on his philosophy of always wanting to be better. Perhaps, this interview will inspire others to develop the philosophy that helps Luis to succeed. Are you up to that challenge?

Luis was chosen to be the Student Speaker of the XXII Commencement Ceremony of United International College.

Congratulations, Luis, on your accomplishments and we are certain that you will keep climbing higher and higher, not only for you, but for your family, friends, and mentors.

 

by Marcela Moyano

Becoming Entrepreneurs: Business Communication Students Experience the Mock Interview

Written by Prof. Jack Rose

Miramar, FL – The Spring 2024 term for students, at United International College, came to a close with several activities enjoyed by students before taking their final exams.

One such educational activity was the Mock Interviews that students in Professor Jack J. Rose’s Business Communications class participated in as the final activity of the term. The course covers both oral and written communications and students are challenged to hone their communication skills through various projects and activities throughout the term. The Mock Interviews are the culminating activity to the course.

Several students in this class completed Professor Rose’s Human Resources Management class and, therefore, sparked an idea to challenge those students to interview their peers to put theory into practice. The interviewers and the interviewees switched roles so each gained the knowledge and experience in interviewing techniques. 

Student feedback was most favorable and several stated that the event helped to build their self-confidence and to ease any nervousness they might have had. 

United International College not only offers a solid practical educational experience, but also believes in a holistic approach to educate the whole person and encourages students to become successful entrepreneurs.
Students can enroll in Associate, Bachelor, or Master Degree programs. Learn more about UIC Programs-

by Marcela Moyano