Author Reynaldo G. Torres Jr. Inspires MCC1000 Students With His Journey Through the Evolving Book Industry
Author Reynaldo G. Torres Jr. Inspires MCC1000 Students With His Journey Through the Evolving Book Industry
Students in MCC1000: Introduction to Communication and Mass Media recently had the opportunity to connect classroom concepts with real-world experience during a special visit from Reynaldo G. Torres Jr., author of Young, Gifted & Directionless: A Story of Overcoming Adversity, Reconnecting with My Purpose to Pursue My Passion (2023).
Reynaldo—formerly an undergraduate communication student under Dr. Marcela Moyano—returned to the same classroom where his own journey once began. This time, he stood before current students as a published author, storyteller, and content creator, ready to share his insight into the continually evolving book industry.
A Story of Resilience, Purpose, and Creative Discovery
Drawing from his memoir, Reynaldo spoke candidly about the challenges he overcame, the moments of uncertainty that shaped him, and the discovery of his passion for writing. He described what it took to turn his lived experiences into a book that could not only inform but also heal and inspire others.
His message was clear: purpose often emerges through adversity, and creativity grows when we dare to be honest with ourselves.
A Classroom Moment That Came Full Circle
For Dr. Moyano, watching her former student return to inspire future communication professionals was a powerful reminder of the impact of education. She shared:
“Education is a process similar to planting a seed that germinates, flowers, and results in newer seeds. Having Reynaldo, once my undergraduate communication student, attend my class and speak to soon-to-be communication professionals as a published author is empowering and demonstrates the process of cultivating minds that seek knowledge, create healing content, and return to the classroom to inspire others. Education cannot be more rewarding than that. I am so fulfilled to see Reynaldo as a successful content creator, writer, and electronic series producer. That is when I realize that my mission as an educator is bigger than myself.”
A Conversation That Sparked Inspiration
Students were highly engaged throughout the conversation, asking thoughtful questions about writing, storytelling, and navigating creative careers. Many reflected on their own developing sense of purpose as they listened to someone who once sat in their exact place just a few years earlier.
Reynaldo’s honesty and encouragement reinforced a central theme of the course: communication is not just a skill, but a powerful tool for shaping identity, connection, and change.
A Meaningful Closing Gesture
In a generous and memorable conclusion to the session, Reynaldo gifted each student a signed copy of his book—a tangible reminder of his journey and an invitation for students to continue exploring their own passions.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu
Mental Health, Seasons of Life, and the Power of Agency: Dr. Nguper Dooyum-Laha Inspires Students at United International College
Mental Health, Seasons of Life, and the Power of Agency: Dr. Nguper Dooyum-Laha Inspires Students at United International College
By Dr. Marcela Moyano
In an era marked by rapid technological change and rising emotional pressures among young people, the importance of mental well-being has never been more urgent. This was the central message delivered by Dr. Nguper Dooyum-Laha, a medical doctor and writer whose work centers on personal development, preventive care, and youth empowerment.
Speaking to students at United International College, Dr. Dooyum-Laha grounded her lecture in the World Health Organization’s definition of mental health — a definition she believes young people must understand if they are to thrive in today’s complex world.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as:
“a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.”
This definition, she explained, goes far beyond the absence of illness. It speaks to capacity, usefulness, resilience, and meaning — qualities every young person can cultivate.
Agency in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Dr. Dooyum-Laha opened her discussion by focusing on individual agency — the ability of a person to make conscious, self-directed choices.
“In this age of artificial intelligence,” she told the students, “you must pause long enough to ask yourself what your vision for life truly is.”
She emphasized that critical thinking is no longer optional. Young people must actively learn to evaluate information, resist external pressures, and make informed choices that align with their identity and values.
“You need to know who you are,” she said. “If you don’t, someone else will decide for you.”
The Seasons of Life — A Nigerian Metaphor
Drawing on a familiar Nigerian experience, Dr. Dooyum-Laha compared emotional well-being to the rhythms of the rainy season and the Harmattan dry season.
“Life comes in seasons,” she said. “There will be moments of growth and moments of drought. But just as we prepare for the physical seasons, we can prepare for the emotional ones.”
Her message was simple but profound:
Stress is inevitable — but suffering is not.
With preparation, awareness, and the right tools, young people can navigate difficult periods with greater resilience.
Tools for Resilience: Movement, Support, and Community
Dr. Dooyum-Laha highlighted three essential pillars of mental well-being:
1. Exercise as a Stress-Coping Mechanism
Movement, she explained, stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. Exercise, therefore, becomes more than fitness — it becomes emotional medicine.
2. The Power of Support Systems
“No man is an island,” she reminded the students. Human connection is essential. Hugs release dopamine. Conversations create safety. Community prevents isolation. “You are important to the next person,” she said. “Never underestimate the people in your life.”
3. Living a Useful and Productive Life
Purpose is a stabilizer. According to the WHO, contributing to one’s community is a core part of mental health. Work — whether academic, creative, or social — gives structure and meaning to the human experience.
A Message of Worth and Uniqueness
In one of the most resonant moments of her lecture, Dr. Dooyum-Laha reminded the students:
“You are unique and your DNA is just yours. Your presence in this world is valid and you do not need to prove it to anyone.”
She compared each individual to a work of art.
“An artist takes time to shape its artwork,” she said. “We are all unique pieces of art.”
This, she argued, is the mindset that protects young people from comparison, self-doubt, and the mental pressure to perform.
A Smile as a Catalyst for Change
Dr. Dooyum-Laha closed her session with a simple invitation that carried extraordinary weight:
“Today, smile at one person. That’s how we can change the world.”
A smile appears small, she added, but has the power to create connection, encourage hope, and shift someone else’s emotional landscape.
A Month of Awareness, A Lifetime of Impact
Her talk was especially timely — delivered in November, a period dedicated in Nigeria to raising mental health awareness. She also acknowledged International Men’s Day, noting the importance of holding space for men’s emotional struggles, which are often overlooked or culturally minimized.
Dr. Nguper Dooyum-Laha’s message to the students was ultimately one of hope, agency, and preparation. Mental health, she insisted, is not a distant concept reserved for crisis. It is a daily practice, a personal responsibility, and a communal effort.
And with a smile, a supportive community, and self-awareness, every young person can step into their future better equipped to cope, grow, and contribute.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu
Holistic Human Experience
Written by
Anthony Monroy
Dania Beach, Florida - Since I began the SLS 1211: Holistic Human Development course with Professor Guadalupe, I have noticed a significant improvement in my well-being. It's not just another subject of the semester, but a space that has allowed me to connect with myself in a way that I hadn't stopped to explore before. Every week, we learn about well-being theories and exercises, but the most valuable thing has been applying them in my day-to-day life, understanding that well-being extends far beyond the physical: it encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects as well.
Yesterday, October 28, we went to meditate at Dania Beach, and that experience simply reconnected me with everything. Listening to the waves, breathing deeply and feeling the energy of the place made me realize how important it is to pause. It was a moment of total calm, where I left behind the noise and worries, and I could focus only on being present. Prof. Guadalupe, as always, guided the experience with incredible energy, making us all feel at peace and grateful to be there.
Definitely, this class has helped me see well-being from a more human and complete perspective. She has taught me to take care of myself, not only to perform better, but to live better. I am really grateful for what I have learned and for sharing these experiences that are leaving a mark on me.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.
What is the Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
What is OPT?
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OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a U.S. immigration benefit for F-1 students. It allows eligible international students to work in the U.S. in a job directly related to their major field of study.
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It is considered post-completion practical training (though there is also pre-completion OPT in some circumstances).
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Standard OPT is for 12 months.
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OPT is authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) via an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
OPT Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for OPT, students generally must meet conditions such as:
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Maintain valid F-1 status
The student must be in good standing and comply with all F-1 regulations (e.g. full course load, not in violation of status). -
Have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year
You typically must complete at least one full academic year at the U.S. institution before applying for OPT. -
OPT must relate to the student’s major
The job you accept under OPT must be in a field that is directly connected to your course of study. -
Apply in the correct timeframe
There is a window in which students can apply: usually no earlier than 90 days before the program's end date, and no later than 60 days after the program's completion (but before the end of the 60-day grace period). -
Get the recommendation of the DSO (Designated School Official)
The institution's Designated School Official (DSO) must endorse the student’s I-20 for OPT, indicating that they are eligible, and update SEVIS accordingly. -
File Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
The student must submit Form I-765 and pay the associated USCIS fee. Once approved, USCIS issues an EAD card that shows the period during which the student may work.
OPT for UIC Students (What UIC Provides / What You Should Know)
From UIC’s published international student policies:
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UIC students who complete an Associate, Bachelor or Master's degree are eligible to receive a work permit (i.e., OPT) and a Social Security number.
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UIC will recommend OPT, provided the student meets UIC’s eligibility criteria (e.g. full-time enrollment for one year, maintaining F-1 status)
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For OPT full list of requirements, please contact the admissions office.
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UIC students must maintain performance and financial compliance to preserve eligibility for OPT or status extension.
For assistance with F-1 visa guidance, UIC’s admissions office can provide step-by-step support throughout the application and visa process. Please contact uicadmissions@uinternational.edu or via Whats App at +1 (786) 734-7750
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
TPS Termination for Venezuelan Citizens and Options to Continue in the U.S. Through Education
On September 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published an official notice titled “Termination of the 2021 Designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status,” appearing at 90 Fed. Reg. 43225 (Sept. 8, 2025). In this notice, Secretary Noem formally announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela’s 2021 designation.
This termination will take effect on November 7, 2025, at 11:59 p.m., after which Venezuelan nationals currently protected under this TPS category will lose their temporary legal status and employment authorization unless they transition to another lawful immigration status.
What TPS Holders Need to Know
TPS allows eligible Venezuelans to live and work in the United States due to unsafe conditions in their home country. With its termination, beneficiaries must either:
- Depart the U.S. before the effective date, or
- Obtain another lawful immigration status before TPS protection expires.
Failing to maintain lawful status after November 7, 2025, could result in unlawful presence and possible removal proceedings.
Pathway to a Student Visa (F-1)
One of the most practical and life-enhancing options for TPS holders is to change status to an F-1 Student Visa. This pathway allows individuals to remain in the U.S. legally while continuing their personal and professional development through education.
United International College (UIC): A Bridge to the Future
United International College (UIC) welcomes international students seeking quality higher education in the United States. UIC offers a range of academic programs designed to prepare students for leadership and global success:
- Undergraduate Degrees:
- Business Administration
- International Business Management
- Communications and Mass Media
- Travel and Tourism Management
- Graduate Program:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
UIC provides personalized academic advising, career counseling, and a diverse community that helps students adapt and thrive. For Venezuelan TPS beneficiaries, enrolling at UIC can be a way to build new opportunities while maintaining lawful status in the U.S.
Requirements for an F-1 Student Visa
To change from TPS to F-1 status, applicants must meet U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and U.S. Department of State requirements. The general steps and documents include:
- Admission to a SEVP-Certified School
- Obtain a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from UIC.
- Proof of Financial Support
- Demonstrate ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and related costs for at least one academic year.
- This can include bank statements, affidavits of support, or scholarships.
- Nonimmigrant Intent
- Show ties to your home country or future plans outside the U.S. after your studies (even if long-term intent is uncertain).
- Maintain Lawful Status During Transition
- File Form I-539 (Application to Change Nonimmigrant Status) before your TPS expires.
- Continue complying with all TPS conditions until the change of status is approved.
- SEVIS Fee and Consular Interview (if applicable)
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and, if applying from abroad, attend an interview at a U.S. consulate.
Why Education Is the Best Next Step
Pursuing education at institutions like UIC provides Venezuelan nationals with stability, skill development, and a community of international peers. Beyond academics, students gain time to plan their future — whether it involves advancing a career, pursuing further education, or awaiting more favorable conditions in their home country.
As the TPS termination for Venezuela approaches in November 2025, it is crucial for beneficiaries to act proactively. Transitioning to student status through institutions such as United International College offers a constructive path forward — one that supports both personal growth and compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
For assistance with admission or F-1 visa guidance, UIC’s admissions office can provide step-by-step support throughout the application and visa process. Please contact uicadmissions@uinternational.edu or via Whats App at +1 (786) 734-7750
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.
My Forever Hero
Written by
Isaiah Derkevics
Dania Beach, Florida - When I was in ninth grade, my mom called me into her room and told me something that changed my life forever. She explained carefully that she had stage four cancer and that her time on earth was coming to an end. In that moment, I didn’t know how to feel. I was sad, overwhelmed, and it felt like I was lost. I sat there with her, listening to the details of the situation, trying to get a better understanding. As she went on, my mom began to cry, and that was the point when I felt true sadness. She told me that the doctors said she only had a few months left to live, and even through the pain she stayed strong for me, because that was who she was. We talked about what the future would bring and how this would affect me.
The main thing I remember was her encouraging me to keep my faith in God and not let this get in the way of my life, but instead to keep working hard toward my goals. Her relationship with God was the center of her life, and with that came a sense of peace, knowing where she would be in the end. After her passing, I came to a true realization of her character and how strong she was. To stay positive in a situation like hers was very moving. After our talk, she even made a TikTok account where she built up quite a following, sharing her journey with others as a way to give hope and show that no matter what situation you are in, you can always find the positives. Losing her was the hardest challenge I’ve faced, but even now her
message still guides me and helps me to continue to be strong. She taught me that faith, hard work, and positivity can carry me through anything.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.
My Inspiration
Written by
Dennyson Alves Gama
Dania Beach, Florida – My mother has been the single most influential person in my life. When I was just five years old, she made the courageous decision to leave my father after their divorce, choosing to raise my younger sister and me on her own. Despite the emotional and financial hardships that followed, she never allowed bitterness or despair to define her. Instead, she built a home filled with love, discipline, and unwavering expectations for integrity. From an early age, she instilled in me the values of honesty, resilience, and responsibility—teaching me that being a man wasn’t about strength alone, but about character, compassion, and the courage to stand by your word.
What always struck me most about my mother was her quiet bravery. She worked long hours, often juggling multiple jobs, yet never missed a school event or failed to ask about my day. She spoke honestly about life’s challenges but always paired those truths with hope. Her love wasn’t loud or showy—it was steady, like a lighthouse guiding us through storms. She taught me to treat others with respect, to own my mistakes, and to never let fear dictate my choices. Even when times were tight, she found ways to make us feel secure, reminding us that dignity and kindness cost nothing but mean everything.
Years later, when I decided to leave everything behind and move to the United States to chase a dream I could barely articulate, it was my mother who gave me the final push. While others questioned my decision, she listened, asked thoughtful questions, and then said simply, “If this is what your heart is calling you to do, then go. I’ll be here cheering you on.” Her belief in me never wavered, even when I doubted myself. She sold some of her jewelry to help pay for my flight, not out of obligation, but because she genuinely wanted me to have the opportunities she never did. That sacrifice, made with a smile and no expectation of return,taught me the true meaning of selfless love.
Because of her, I carry myself with purpose and integrity. Whenever I face setbacks in this new country—language barriers, cultural adjustments, or moments of loneliness—I hear her voice reminding me to keep going, to stay honest, and to never lose sight of who I am. She didn’t just raise me; she shaped the man I strive to be every day. My mother’s honesty, bravery, and boundless love continue to be my compass, and I honor her by living the values she so carefully planted in me from the very beginning.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.
Merging Artificial Intelligence and Business
Dania Beach, Florida – Nicolas Guzman, a sophomore majoring in Business Administration at United International College has been invited to speak at the upcoming Commit Your Code Conference on September 25th in Dallas, Texas. He came to the United States to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, and to continue his education leading to a Master’s Degree in Business Administration at United International College in Dania Beach, Florida. Fluent in English and Spanish, Nick loves South Florida, its diversity, and the different cultures and traditions.
In his native Colombia, Nicolas attended the Universidad de La Sabana and graduated in 2014 with his degree in Computer Engineering with a major in Software Engineering, Chia, Colombia. He is the recipient of several awards, among them for his Outstanding Thesis/Dissertation and Best Thesis Research and Dissertation about Quantified Self and Learning Analytics.
As a software engineer, Nick spends a lot of time, outside of his classes and family responsibilities, researching and publishing articles on artificial intelligence and cloud computing. At the conference, he will present a workshop on cloud technologies, drawing from both his technical experience and the broader perspective he is gaining through his business studies.
The conference brings together developers, engineers, business leaders, and enthusiasts who are passionate about advancing technology and innovation. His goal is not only to share insights about cloud, but also to highlight the importance of building a bridge between software engineering and business.
“I believe that understanding both worlds allows us to create solutions that are technically sound while also aligned with market needs and organizational strategy,” said Nicolas Guzman. Nick added, “Speaking at this conference gives me the chance to contribute to that dialogue, connect with peers across disciplines, and encourage a more holistic approach to technology and business.”
“Nicolas Guzman is a hard-working individual who continually achieves work–life balance and is a role model for other students,” said Professor Jack J. Rose, who has had the pleasure of having Nick in three of his courses. “He is extremely knowledgeable, and I know he will be enthusiastically embraced at the conference. He is a walking encyclopedia on artificial intelligence and its importance in business today.
Nick and his wife welcomed their son during the summer, and it wouldn’t surprise me if their son follows in his father’s footsteps. His enthusiasm and expertise on artificial intelligence in business are evident in his class discussions, term projects, and presentations,” Rose continued, and he is truly a motivational role model to all of our fantastic students and the entire team at United International College.”
After the conference, Nick will share his experiences with his peers and faculty at United International College.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.
Music as Art Decorates Time: Defining and Understanding Identity and Culture
Written by Dr. Marcela Moyano
The Founder, CEO, and Artistic Producer of Realm 26 Studio, Ignacio Palladino, together with Nico Gomez, Sound Engineer and Production Assistant, were the virtual guest speakers for the CMM 1000 Introduction to Mass Communications and Media Literacy course, taught by Dr. Marcela Moyano, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, via the Online Campus.
The course introduces students to the history and evolution of media industries and explores how, through technology, each medium has transformed into what we know today as media convergence. Students engage in discussions about the ethical implications of content production, the global impact of media, and the application of communication theories.
As part of this week’s focus on the evolution of the music industry, Palladino and Gomez were invited to share their experience as the creators of Realm 26 Music Lab—a boutique artist incubator in Fort Lauderdale that empowers musicians with state-of-the-art equipment.
One of the lab’s key features is recording live sessions and engaging with an online audience. The discussion highlighted how music studios today are not only about producing high-quality sound but also about incorporating video recording and editing to connect with followers in more dynamic ways.
Palladino reflected on his personal journey, shaped by growing up listening to his father play the piano. His father later became his greatest supporter in every musical project. In his 40s, Palladino decided to dedicate himself fully to his true passion—music—after a decade-long career in Silicon Valley as a software engineer.
“In the cryptocurrency world, I was trained to keep pushing, to try new things, to take risks, and to innovate with what they call ‘guardrails,’” Palladino shared. “After some years, I thought, now it’s my turn to innovate. I’m going to create a studio that is also a stage—because we not only want to capture the music being performed, but also the images of the music being performed.”
The speakers also addressed the growing presence of AI in music production. With tools such as Suno, users can create songs within minutes, and platforms like Spotify are increasingly filled with AI-generated music by non-musicians. Palladino and Gomez emphasized, however, that AI will never replace the human element of creativity. While AI is creating “noise” in digital platforms, they believe authentic musicians will continue to stand out.
They also shared words of encouragement: “People may celebrate your successes, but you might not feel they are true achievements. Conversely, you may feel deeply fulfilled by something others do not recognize. If, in your heart, an achievement feels meaningful, keep following that path—even if those around you don’t celebrate it—because that is your true path.”
United International College is grateful to Ignacio Palladino, Nico Gomez, and the entire Realm 26 team for joining the CMM 1000 Introduction to Mass Communications and Media Literacy course and for sharing their wisdom and passion for the music industry.
You can Subscribe to Realm 26 on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Realm26
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/realm26studio/#
Learn more about UIC's Communications and Mass Media Program