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
Former UIC Intern to Media Trailblazer: Ximena Caraballo’s Inspiring Interview with Alejandra Oraa
Ximena Caraballo, a distinguished alumna of United International College's (UIC) Communications and Mass Media program, has exemplified the power of storytelling through her recent interview with journalist Alejandra Oraa. This feature not only highlights Oraa's journey in journalism but also underscores Caraballo's commitment to empathetic communication.
Alejandra Oraa: Communicating with Empathy
In the interview published in Miami Pocket, Caraballo delves into Oraa's experiences, shedding light on her journey to becoming a prominent journalist—a journey that includes her 15-year career as an anchor on CNN en Español. Oraa emphasizes the importance of empathy in journalism, stating that understanding and connecting with audiences is crucial in today’s media landscape. Caraballo’s thoughtful questions and narrative style allow readers to better appreciate Oraa’s dedication to authentic storytelling.
Caraballo's Role with the UIC Eagle Rays
Beyond her journalistic endeavors, Caraballo made significant contributions to UIC's athletic community. As an intern with the UIC Eagle Rays, she was instrumental in enhancing the department's media presence. Her responsibilities included developing social media strategies, branding initiatives, and live-streaming events, all of which played a pivotal role in promoting the college's athletic programs.
Caraballo's dedication to her internship exemplifies the practical application of her academic training. Her efforts not only increased visibility for UIC's athletic teams but also fostered a stronger sense of community within the college.
A Testament to UIC's Educational Impact
Caraballo's achievements reflect the comprehensive education provided by UIC's Communications and Mass Media program. Her ability to seamlessly integrate empathy into her journalism and her proactive approach to her internship responsibilities underscore the program's emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
As Caraballo continues to make strides in the field of communication, her journey serves as an inspiration to current and future UIC students. Her story is a testament to the opportunities that arise from dedication, empathy, and a commitment to excellence.
For a deeper insight into Alejandra Oraa's perspective on empathetic communication, read the full interview on Miami Pocket
Final Exam Meets Fieldwork: UIC Public Relations Students Take Learning to the Streets of Wynwood
In a vibrant blend of academics and real-world immersion, students from United International College’s Public Relations Campaigns course wrapped up their semester with a unique off-campus final exam. Under the direction of Dr. Marcela Moyano, the exam took place in the heart of Wynwood at Panther Coffee, a locally beloved roastery with global impact.
The Day Begins in Wynwood
At 9:30 a.m., students arrived at 2390 NW 2nd Ave, where the warm aroma of fresh-roasted coffee welcomed them to a space that would serve as both classroom and inspiration. Each student opened the day by delivering a one-minute pitch on their Public Relations Campaign Proposal, highlighting the overarching goal and the most relevant strategy of their personal project.
These brief but impactful pitches reflected months of hard work and preparation, setting the tone for the morning.
Learning Through Ethical Business
The group was met by Anthony Vinciguerra, Director of the Global Solidarity Haitian Partnership, who provided valuable context about the day’s deeper mission. Panther Coffee sources beans directly from the COCANO Coffee Cooperative in Northwest Haiti—a partnership that supports Haitian coffee growers and promotes sustainable business practices.
Students then heard from Mike Van Tyle, Panther’s head of roasting and coffee sourcing. He shared Panther’s story, his personal journey, and the ethical motivation behind their ongoing work with COCANO.
He also demonstrated how to roast coffee beans and spoke with students about the art and science of quality coffee production. Van Tyle emphasized the importance of long-term relationships with farmers, walking the group through the various development stages that ensure consistency, sustainability, and excellence in every cup.
Brewing Ideas, Writing Strategy
Students had a chance to taste Panther’s Haitian COCANO coffee. Then, the students settled in to write their final exam. Students crafted strategic Public Relations Campaigns tailored to Panther Coffee and COCANO based on their morning immersion and learning about fair-trade coffee and relationships of solidarity.
“Fuel Your Day, the Panther Way” is the tagline created by Karyna Shapsuk to target Gen Z audiences through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, with the goal of increasing Panther Coffee’s social media following. “Panther Coffee should be more than a coffee shop; it should be a creative, cultural hangout spot,” she explained, envisioning the brand as a hub for connection and lasting impact.
UIC’s Vision in Action
This experience reflects United International College’s commitment to transformative, hands-on learning that prepares students to engage with real-world issues. Dr. Marcela Moyano’s Public Relations Campaigns course doesn’t just teach communications—it embodies it, cultivating future professionals who understand the role of strategy in creating ethical and lasting impact.
Valerie Seguin: An Inspiration to Future Communication and Mass Media Arts Students
Blog Post by Dr. Marcela Moyano
Dania Beach, FL- During the COVID 19 Pandemic, Valerie Seguin transferred to United International College from Talk International in the Summer of 2020. She enrolled in the Communications and Mass Media program coming from a 15+ Finance career in France. Valerie adds that she joined this program because communications was a field so foreign to her that it was worth exploring for a bachelor’s degree. Valerie is originally from Bordeaux, France.
In the Spring of 2021, Valerie took a course on Podcasting and produced Wellness Whispers, a Podcast on the Mediterranean Diet. In the third episode of her podcast, she interviewed, Dr. Michel de Logeril, a published cardiologist and nutritionist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the School of Medicine at Grenoble University, France. This episode has had several views and provides important information on the Mediterranean Diet.
During the same semester, she took Photography and exhibited her work at the J. Alberto Moyano Gallery at UIC. She developed her passion for photography and purchased the latest Sony photography technology to continue capturing what her eyes were seeing with her camera lens. On one of her trips to Sicily Island, she took breathtaking pictures of the Ancient theatre of Taormina. She sent these pictures to Dr. Guido, her Photography professor to curate the best picture for a second exhibition. Valerie exhibited once again her photography, this time based on her passion for photography that she developed as a result of the course.
In Animation I and II courses, Valerie worked for a year developing illustrations and animating her illustrations for her Short Film Zen Zone (2023) with a running time of 2:52 minutes. The short film depicts the common reality of a working mother who struggles with balancing her household responsibilities and work demands. When she cannot find a balance and her stress is unsustainable, she collapses and needs a solution to continue her life. This film resonates with every working mom who sees herself identified in this animated story.
Valerie also exhibited her drawings as a result of her Drawing course. One of her drawings illustrates a typical French dinner of cheese, grapes, bread, and wine. A much-longed-for meal for Valerie and her husband while living in the United States.
As an advocate for women’s empowerment and to emphasize the importance of the role of women in society, Valerie represented the character of Super Woman in the Theater and Performing Arts final performance. Her script illustrated women’s strength, resilience, and determination in the face of life’s challenges.
Valerie concludes her academic coursework with the Documentary course at United International College where she, and her classmate, Renata Diniz, produced and directed, United in Diversity: Voices of UIC International Students (2024) with a running time of 32:03 minutes. Their documentary depicts UIC international students and their process of arriving and adapting to live in the multiversity of South Florida as international students. The film was submitted to a few of the South Florida film festivals.
Communication students are required to complete a 3-credit 145-hour internship before graduation. Valerie chose to intern in the Communications Office of UIC. Valerie assisted the Communications Director of UIC with all the internal and external communication efforts of the college. She put her camera to use during all the Media Day of the UIC Eagle Rays teams. She also updated the multiple websites of UIC using WordPress. She also developed a monthly newsletter with the latest information about the college. She extended her work in the internship as part of her Optional Practical Training (OPT) and continued working for UIC.
As highlighted in this short article, Valerie put all her best efforts into every assignment in every course. This article just highlights a few of her courses. Her other professors could cite the relevancy and singularity of her work. She earned an A in every course and she accumulated a GPA of 3.9. and graduated Manga Cum Laude in the Summer of 2024.
After 10 years of living in the United States, Valerie and her husband Jean-Bernard, returned to France. They plan to live in Sicily. Valerie acquired several communication skills and developed a talent that she can apply anywhere in the world. Your UIC Family will always be here for you. Amusez-vous et profitez bien de votre voyage!
Nicolas Guzman Camacho in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Dania Beach, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students. We are pleased to present the work of our 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.
Nicolas Guzman Camacho, Class of 2028 reflects on how the birth of his son reshaped his priorities, transformed his perspective on work-life balance, and redefined his understanding of fulfillment.
A pivotal time in my life by Nicolas Guzman Camacho
The birth of my son, four years ago, was a turning point in my life and reshaped not only my priorities but also myself. I was used to very long hours at work, back-to-back deadlines, and not being able to say “no” through my work as a software engineer. As a matter of fact, my professional identity was closely stitched together with this unending rhythm of productivity, leaving little room for personal well-being or deeper connections.
Reflection about the big picture hardly occurred before the birth of my son. The demands of my job consumed me and made the job first priority. Days were full of tasks and responsibilities that intellectually had fed me yet physically exhausted and emotionally numbed me. The thought of balance was a far-off myth buried beneath expectations- both those I had of myself and those others had. In many ways, I was the product of the environment that I had chosen: one that rewarded dedication with success but quietly eroded the boundaries that define a fulfilling life.
The moment I held my son in my arms for the first time, everything shifted. It was like a blindfold fell off and suddenly I could see what it truly meant to be present, to fully invest in the life I was living. This tiny, fragile human was utterly dependent on me, and with that knowledge came a deep sense of responsibility- not just to his well-being, but to the kind of parent and person I wanted to be. And then, the questions I had avoided or neglected began to surface: What kind of example was I setting? What legacy was I building?
The answer to these questions proved to be quite transformational. That means! I made that very hard decision to quit my demanding job and took another one that allowed remote working. This shift in work schedule allowed me to be more present with the family, to witness the milestones and the ordinary moments that I would have otherwise missed. The healthier path that I chose then brought regular exercise into my routine and made me more conscious of how I wanted to invest my time and energy.
Looking back, the birth of my son was not only a turning point but a catalyst for transformation. It taught me about the importance of balance, time, and joy that cannot be replaced by anything else when one is present for their loved ones. Now, my priorities have shifted in ways that I could never have envisioned, and though the path to that realization was not without its challenges, the journey has proved extremely rewarding. Nowadays, I am not only a better father but also more complete and with a clearer understanding of what is truly important in this life.
Parnya Nadeem in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Dania Beach, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students. We are pleased to present the work of our 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.
Parnya Nadeem, a student from Islamabad, Pakistan, in the Class of 2028, reflects on a transformative moment in her aviation journey in her essay, The Flight That Redefined My Path, where an ordinary flight turned into an extraordinary test of resilience, responsibility, and leadership, reshaping her career and reigniting her passion for flying.
The Flight That Redefined My Path by Parnya Nadeem
In a pilot’s life, each flight is a unique journey, but some flights become pivotal moments that redefine who we are. For me, it was an ordinary flight that unexpectedly turned into a profound learning experience. This flight reshaped my understanding of responsibility, resilience, and the sheer joy of being in the sky.
Before this flight, my career as a pilot had settled into a predictable rhythm. My days were filled with pre-flight checks, meticulous navigation plans, and the routine of commercial routes. While the excitement of flying was still present, I found myself longing for something more-something beyond the daily grind.
I remember a particular day vividly. It was supposed to be a routine flight from a bustling city to a smaller regional airport. The weather forecast had warned of some turbulence, but nothing out of the ordinary. I was confident in my skills and the aircraft’s performance. However, little did I know that this seemingly ordinary flight would become an extraordinary test of my abilities. As we climbed into the sky, the turbulence hit us with a force I hadn’t anticipated. The plane began to shake, and the familiar hum of the engines turned into a roar. I could see the anxiety in the eyes of the passengers behind me, and I knew I had to stay focused. The turbulence wasn’t just a bump in the road; it was a violent reminder of how unpredictable aviation can be.
In those intense moments, I had to draw upon every ounce of my training and experience. My co-pilot and I worked in sync, communicating calmly and executing maneuvers with precision. The cockpit was filled with the sound of our voices, steady and reassuring. Outside, the plane tossed and turned as if it were a leaf in the wind.
I felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility. It was no longer just about following procedures; it was about ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone on board. Every decision was critical, and every second mattered. As the turbulence eventually eased and we landed safely, I felt a mixture of relief and exhaustion. But more than that, I felt a deep sense of clarity.
In the aftermath of that flight, I found myself reflecting deeply. The experience had reinforced my respect for the unpredictability of aviation and highlighted the importance of staying calm under pressure. I realized that being a pilot is not just about technical skills-it’s about embracing challenges with grace and leading with confidence.
This flight became a turning point in my career. It reignited my passion for flying and gave me a renewed sense of purpose. I understood that even in the routine, there are moments that test and define us. I began seeking additional training and eagerly engaged in discussions about handling emergencies. The incident had transformed into a valuable lesson in resilience and empathy.
