MCC1000 Students Explore Public Art at the Miami Worldcenter During Art Basel
During this year’s Art Basel, students in MCC1000: Introduction to Mass Communications and Media Literacy participated in a walk tour of the newly developed Miami Worldcenter, engaging directly with public art to deepen their understanding of visual communication and media literacy. The tour offered students the opportunity to explore how artists use public spaces to convey messages, preserve cultural histories, and reflect social issues through creative expression.
Woody De Othello — Some Time Moves Fast, Some Time Moves Slow (2021–2022)
Woody De Othello’s sculptural installation, created during the pandemic, explores the disorienting experience of time when daily routines were disrupted and moments felt both fleeting and endlessly long. Through expressive, anthropomorphic forms, the work captures the emotional weight of an unprecedented global moment.
Zadok Ben-David — Girl on the Run (2022)
Zadok Ben-David’s Girl on the Run portrays a figure captured mid-stride, blending delicacy with energy to evoke a sense of urgency and motion. The sculpture invites viewers to imagine the narrative behind her movement while highlighting Ben-David’s signature focus on human behavior and emotional storytelling.
Hernan Bas — Snow in Miami (2022)
Hernan Bas’s mural Snow in Miami references the extraordinary morning of January 19, 1977, when Miami witnessed its only recorded snowfall. Drawing from this surreal historical event, Bas uses atmospheric imagery to evoke wonder and nostalgia while honoring a unique moment in the city’s past.
Nina Chanel Abney — R&R (2022)
Nina Chanel Abney’s immersive mural R&R responds to the legacies of gentrification and how redevelopment threatens to erase the histories of vibrant Black communities. Through layered imagery and bold color, Abney challenges viewers to consider whose stories are preserved—and whose are overlooked—as cities transform. "The mural location, a tunnel formed by the dark passageway under the building, inspired me to consider the recognition of sacred spaces with story" adds Abney (Miami Worldcenter, 2022).
Serge Toussaint — Welcome to Miami Worldcenter (2023)
Renowned Miami muralist Serge Toussaint brings his signature style to Welcome to Miami Worldcenter, a vibrant, welcoming artwork that celebrates the city’s multicultural identity. The mural highlights Toussaint’s deep connection to Miami’s neighborhoods and reflects the cultural diversity that continues to shape the city.
A Special Guest: Liliana Moyano Shares Industry Insights
Joining the tour was Liliana Moyano, Founder and President of La Perra Films and a member of the Board of Directors of United International College. At the end of the walk, she spent time having coffee with the students and Dr. Marcela Moyano, professor of the course, offering invaluable insights into her career as a producer, director, and screenwriter. Moyano spoke about the creative process behind bringing stories to the big screen and the importance of staying true to one’s message—an inspiring conversation that connected the themes of the tour to real-world media production.
A Public Art Experience Through the Lens of Media Literacy
For MCC1000 students, the tour demonstrated how public art functions as a powerful form of mass communication—shaping public spaces, conveying cultural narratives, and inviting audiences to interpret meaning through visual cues. Students enjoyed the tour and were able to connect the impact of public art, film, and meaningful conversation during Miami Art Week and Art Basel, ultimately strengthening their understanding of how messages are crafted and shared across different creative mediums.
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu
United International College Announces the Student Pitch Business Expo 2025
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United International College Announces the Student Pitch Business Expo 2025
Showcasing Entrepreneurship, Creativity, and Innovation
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 • 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
United International College - 249 S. Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, FL 33004
United International College (UIC) proudly announces its annual Student Pitch Business Expo 2025, an interactive exhibition featuring bold ideas and innovative business solutions developed by students enrolled in the Entrepreneurship, Creativity, and Innovation – Fall 2025 program.
On Tuesday, December 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to explore a diverse collection of student-led ventures spanning beauty, technology, health, sports, creative arts, food services, logistics, fashion, and more. The Expo celebrates the next generation of entrepreneurs as they present their work to industry professionals, faculty, peers, and the community.
Featured Student Ventures
Beauty & Personal Care
-
ASYMETRIC BEAUTY – “Clean Beauty, Consciously Refined” (Clara Albanese)
A beauty brand dedicated to challenging false beauty standards and celebrating individuality. -
FAIR BEAUTY (Leonardo Orsi Tossi)
A global destination for premium beauty products, with plans to expand into product development.
Sports, Training & Athlete Development
-
FENIX TRAINING FACILITY (Angel Alvarez) — Skill development and performance training for athletes of all ages.
-
BRAZILIAN TOUCH – “Improve your skill the Brazilian way” (João Correa) — Private and group soccer training designed to elevate players to the next level.
-
KSA – KINGUI SOCCER ACADEMY (Guilherme Ribeiro) — Brazilian-style tactical soccer training in the U.S.
-
RM BASEBALL LAP (Romel Mendez) — Baseball instruction focused on athletic excellence, discipline, and personal growth.
-
PERFORMANCE COACHING – “Master your mind. Push your limits.” (David Romero) — Mental performance coaching for competitive athletes.
-
MT RECOVERY (Wilmy Mercedes) — Sports physiotherapy services focused on recovery, injury prevention, and long-term performance.
E-Commerce, Marketing & Technology
-
AMMAR AWAN, LLC (Muhammad Azmat) — E-commerce optimization across Amazon and Walmart Marketplace.
-
UP IDEAS INTERNATIONAL – “Your Goals, Our Mission” (Ana Maria Fajardo) — A bilingual marketing agency turning social media engagement into measurable business results.
-
WABLE – “Where Startups Start Strong” (Nicolás Guzmán) — Fast, secure MVP development for emerging startups.
-
AIAW – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AUTOMATION WORLD (Lucas Ochoa) — AI automation tools designed to help businesses increase efficiency and reduce costs.
-
ASI ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION, INC. (Christian Valdes) — Global import/export services specializing in multi-modal transportation.
-
GO FORWARDING USA, LLC (Bruno Valladares) — International courier services expanding from Miami to destinations worldwide.
Creative Arts, Entertainment & Media
-
JC RECORDS (Jhon Craddock) — A recording studio and independent label supporting artists across multiple genres.
-
TELL YOUR STORY (Edward Espinosa) — A performing arts initiative promoting creative expression and personal development.
-
VALE TORRES PHOTOGRAPHY – “Capturing today… cherishing forever” (Valentina Torres) — Professional photography for events, family moments, and personal branding.
-
LILA – “Authenticity in every detail” (Laura Sandoval) — Handcrafted jewelry and fashion design that celebrates individuality.
-
LUMINA CREATIVE STUDIO – “Creating What Others Can’t Imagine” (Karyna Shapshuk) — A high-end fashion and digital marketing studio with a European aesthetic.
Food, Lifestyle & Consumer Services
-
DELILA’S – “Food for the Future” (Sebastián Hoyos) — Nutritious, chef-prepared meal plans for families, students, athletes, and professionals.
-
FEAR GOD (Larry James) — Apparel brand offering modern clothing, styling tips, and professional alterations.
-
NOVASERVICES (Miguel Leon) — Fast, transparent repair services for phones, tablets, and smart devices.
-
ZENITH (Christian Lizzarraga) — Eco-friendly activewear designed for performance and sustainability.
-
MANU ARG COFFEE SHOP (Manuel Sendon) — Argentinian-inspired café with dine-in, take-out, catering, and delivery services.
-
PHILLYDETAILING (Philippe See-Arnold) — Premium mobile car detailing using high-quality products and expert techniques.
Travel, Events & Experiences
-
DREAM DESIGN EVENTS – “Where Dreams Come True” (Naomi Alvarez) — Full-service event decoration transforming spaces into memorable settings.
-
JMAGENCY, LLC – “Explore Your World” (Jose Marcano) — Personalized travel planning for global adventures.
Youth Development, Community Growth & Innovation
-
JH EXCHANGE PROGRAM (João Cunha) — Helping young Brazilian soccer players access training and educational opportunities in the U.S.
-
SHOWTIME BUCKETS (Deshawn Doyley) — A digital platform featuring short basketball highlight clips from players nationwide.
-
SKYCROWND RONE & MEDIA (Jhalen Matos) — Drone photography, videography, and aerial surveying for real estate, agriculture, events, and marketing.
A Celebration of Leadership, Vision, and Innovation
This year’s Expo represents one of the most diverse and dynamic showcases in UIC’s history. Each venture demonstrates the students’ commitment to research, creativity, strategic planning, and real-world problem-solving. Attendees are invited to meet the entrepreneurs, explore their business concepts, and support the development of future leaders.
Event Information
Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: United International College
Contact: Prof. Jack Rose — jrose@uinternational.edu
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact marcela@uinternational.edu
### END ###
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu
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?
-
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.
-
It is considered post-completion practical training (though there is also pre-completion OPT in some circumstances).
-
Standard OPT is for 12 months.
-
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:
-
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:
-
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.
-
UIC will recommend OPT, provided the student meets UIC’s eligibility criteria (e.g. full-time enrollment for one year, maintaining F-1 status)
-
For OPT full list of requirements, please contact the admissions office.
-
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.