The physical barrier of a border wall doesn’t hinder the transcendence of boundaries; this truth is vividly portrayed in the narratives of Tomas Olvera, Valeria Alvarez Del Callejo, Heriberto Jimenez, and Evelyn Rosas. These individuals completed their high school, graduate, and/or postgraduate studies at CETYS Tijuana Campus and shared their success stories with the San Diego community.

Through a panel discussion for young professionals on both sides of the border, hosted at UCSD Park & Market in San Diego, graduates from various disciplines recounted their journeys. They detailed the skills acquired during their education at CETYS on the Mexican side, skills robust enough to propel them to success outside the confines of Mexico—whether in California, the rest of the United States, or even on a global scale.

CETYS University alums shared anecdotes and challenging experiences encountered during their educational pursuits. These experiences helped them transcend borders and paved the way for success in their respective professional spheres. They provided insights and advice for overcoming challenges and enhancing their education.

Tomás Andrés Olvera, a 2021 graduate in Cybernetic Electronic Engineering, adeptly navigated opportunities while residing on the border. His immersion in the aerospace industry eventually led him to assume the role of Robotics Systems Engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

«The most challenging aspect lies in the constant pursuit of learning, a lifelong endeavor. Yet, that’s the beauty of life—getting stressed with things and gradually transforming them into solutions. We bear the responsibility of representing two countries, an asset that can be strategically leveraged both professionally and personally. This holds true for individuals from Mexico and those from the United States aspiring to study in Mexico,» said the CETYS alumnus.

For Evelyn Rosas, a graduate in Marketing (2016) and subsequent pursuer of an MBA with a Double Degree at CETYS, leveraging experiences in Austria and Taiwan proved transformative. That propelled her to establish Neon Marketing & PR, an agency specializing in communication strategies based in San Diego.

«The most significant challenge was cultivating the confidence to pursue goals and trusting that you have the knowledge to succeed internationally because the required knowledge lies not only in academic subjects but is also embedded in the experiences gained internationally. It’s a matter of applying this knowledge effectively. It’s essential to understand what you want, why you want it, and how to achieve it. It becomes clearer as you progress, allowing flexibility to adjust your path if necessary,» emphasized Evelyn.

The journey of Heriberto Jiménez, a 2010 Law graduate, serves as a testament to the power of persistence. Gradually, he secured the opportunity to practice law in the United States, notwithstanding his educational foundation acquired in Mexican institutions like CETYS.

«After leaving CETYS, I worked for 13 years in the Mexican judiciary. There was no rush. Eventually, I successfully underwent the examination to practice as a lawyer in California. However, the realization dawned that such accomplishments unfold over time and aren’t instantaneous,» shared Heriberto.

Finally, Valeria Alvarez del Callejo, a 2020 graduate in Organizational Psychology, underscored the transformative impact of her exchange program in Canada. This experience equipped her with a global perspective within the realm of organizational studies. Fearlessly, she ventured into gaining practical insights through internships in U.S. companies, culminating in her role as a Technical Recruiter and Customer Success Manager at Braintrust, a company specializing in freelance worker connections.

«Merely relying on classroom education or major-specific learnings is limiting. Observing the practices of peers and industry professionals, understanding the technology they employ, and embracing various methodologies are essential. Equally crucial is connecting with individuals from diverse cultures and countries, gaining insights into alternative life perspectives and problem-solving approaches,» remarked Valeria.

The panel, titled «Encounter with CETYS: Success Stories Transcending Borders,» aimed not just to inspire but to empower attendees. It provided valuable insights and concrete perspectives on how a university education from CETYS University can be a transformative gateway to international opportunities.