Juan came to New York when he was twenty, two years past the typical high school age in the U.S. Although he had already started college in Colombia, he chose to attend a high school that welcomed older students and was inclusive, especially of immigrant students new to the U.S. He was eager to learn English but fearful of being a stranger in a new place. He connected deeply with the other students and found the diversity of backgrounds interesting. In a short while, he overcame his fears, learned English, and even became a student council member.

He thinks that knowledge of business and the economy is essential in today’s global world and sees money as a way to level the playing field. “I have chosen to study international business to create new, humanized business models. Corporations must promote both economic success and egalitarianism that lead to a better future where everyone can thrive.”