CIW Student Earns First Triple-Degree from the UIW System
On Wednesday, June 26, Dante Guzman Ruiz, an International Business major from Centro Universitario Incarnate Word (CIW) in Mexico City, made history by being the first student in the UIW System to obtain a triple degree.
UIW’s double degree programs allow students the opportunity to receive two degrees: one from UIW and one from a UIW sister school. The University’s double degree programs are often earned by students with the support of UIW’s sister institution SRH Hochschule University in Heidelberg, Germany.
However, students studying at the University’s Mexico-based campuses have the additional opportunity to obtain a triple degree: one from UIW, one from Heidelberg SRH Hochschule University and one from one of UIW’s two Mexico-based campuses.
Guzman Ruiz started his journey at CIW because he was very interested in the Mexico-U.S. double degree and exchange program. He decided to participate in the exchange program by attending the University’s sister university, SRH Hochschule University.
During his time at SRH, Guzman Ruiz had the opportunity to develop key advantages including decision making skill and analytical thinking while experiencing different cultures. He was also able to better develop his linguistic abilities in languages such as French, German, Spanish and English.
On May 23, Guzman Ruiz presented his internship report to the Mexico, U.S. and German representatives to obtain his triple degree. After considering many offers for post-graduation internships, his clear choice was an internship at PepsiCo Mexico where he will be working in the Control and Finance department.
“Earning a triple degree from the U.S., Mexico and Germany is an extraordinary achievement not only for Dante but also for many people at UIW in San Antonio and Mexico that helped him or planned the program,” remarked Marcos Fragoso, vice president for UIW International Affairs. “This accomplishment highlights UIW’s commitment to international collaboration and exemplifies the global opportunities and enriching educational experiences that our University is dedicated to providing. I hope it serves as an inspiration to other students.”
Guzman Ruiz expressed that his academic preparation at CIW provided him with the necessary tools needed to overcome any obstacles during his academic journey at SRH. On a personal note, he also stated that he really enjoyed the lifetime memories he acquired during his time at SRH, but mostly the incredible personal and academic growth he developed.
“UIW’s global system opens the door to a world of possibilities and Dante’s incredible achievement as our first triple-degree graduate is proof of that,” says Dr. Thomas M. Evans, UIW president. “An education from the University of the Incarnate Word prepares students to be the ‘Word in the World,’ to live as concerned and enlightened citizens in a global community, and to serve as leaders internationally. I know that I speak for many across UIW when I say that we are deeply proud of Dante and know that he is uniquely and exceptionally prepared to accomplish great things anywhere in the world.”