Wynwood Fieldtrip of UIC Students in Emancipation of the Thinking Critically Class with Prof. Chonevski Aleks
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Post by Prof. Aleksander Chonevski
Wynwood Fieldtrip of UIC Students in Emancipation of the Thinking Critically Class with Prof. Chonevski Aleks
Theories of Thinking Critically (Chaffee, 2019; Kant, 1987; Freire, 1969; Bloom, 1956, and Dewey, 1933) are at the fundamental core of Socrates’ principles. United International students examined life’s experiences in their extracurricular class at an Art-Basel contemporary visualization in the Wynwood Walls art community. These thought-provoking visual methods are beyond mono languages, writings, and drawings of nonverbal communication and refer to general and moral conceptual judgments. The purpose of the field trip is to teach international Latin and Asian students how to analyze expressions of Wynwood’s fine art murals using indirect and direct lenses in their Thinking Critically class as well as learning self-reflective practices in the real world with Professor Chonevski.
By thinking critically, our student’s findings holistically expressed semantics with in-depth discussions which focused on questions and solutions for problem-solving while building transformative mapping support. When forming arguments derived from relevant and robust evidence of concepts in favorite paintings and authors, each student, thinking critically, is motivated by an adjustment of issues within their moral judgments. Students unfolded their free reasoning to construct an ontological and epistemological empathy, followed by unrestricted perceptions and beliefs.
Art-Basel Miami offers leading art exhibits 24/7 for twelve months, indoor as well as outdoor patio murals painted by artists from all around the globe. From a critically thinking aspect, United students were able to recognize specific themes when analyzing the Walls’ murals. These themes included social justice issues such as poverty, cross-cultural inequities, good vs. evil political allegories, pictures of racism, and well-known cultural roots that have become embedded in socialist and communist countries. These are topics that students can easily recognize and gives our Latin and Asian students an avenue for argumentative approaches when analyzing and debating art.
One Brazilian student, Ana, yelled, “This is a famous Brazilian picture by Kobra“. She explained that particular type of painting is very popular in Brazil, and it characterizes Brazilian urban art that features indigenous neck rings based on Brazilian cultural heritage. Ana’s enthusiastic expression powerfully captured her love of art and motivated her to analyze the famous murals from Brazilian and Latin artists.
This “live a life philosophy” enlightens students in their Thinking Critically experiences while investigating pictures based on their own “truths.” Professor Chonevski’s students, Ricardo, Sid, Ana, and Renan, experienced a genuine sense of self-reflection when connecting Wynwood’s murals. Within the insight of their creative visions and vivid imaginations, these students’ basic critical thinking lessons constructed a base of freedom by eliminating constraints. This trip to Wynwood was successful in that it helped identify their roots and values and promoted the importance of being involved in their communities for future endeavors and career paths. The murals opened many conversations for strong perceptions with conclusions and endorsed their subjective opinions with inductive reasoning, which produces soundness. International students express their freedom through validity by introspectively approaching the pathway to who they are, validating their business skills when learning different views, critical interests to further and establish the right to choose what is “good student life and what to expect in one’s own life.” According to Chaffee (2019):
“Truth is that you will discover as you strive, through your daily choices, to create yourself as an authentic individual, committed to enhancing the lives of others, fulfilling your unique potential, and attuning yourself to your essential nature and the mysteries of the universe” (p. 550).
Professor Aleksandar Chonevski and United International College in Florida have enlightened their international critically thinking students for many years by developing the student’s philosophy when learning the American way for practical life and expressing who they are – Cogito ergo sum, and who they want to be. In a Thinking Critically class, many case studies using practical freedom, recognize internal and external constraints by accepting the correct way of thinking that help students determine their own life and career paths when overcoming many of life’s obstacles and when evaluating their possibilities based on knowledge.
Stichiz Talks to UIC Communication Students on Radio Unilatina USA
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Post by Alix Paez
Stichiz Talks to UIC Communication Students on Radio Unilatina USA
On May 04, 2019, the Communication and Mass Media students of UIC enrolled in the Speaking on Radio course with Professor Michael Greci interviewed Stichiz for their radio show. Stichiz is a trilingual international award-winning entertainer and artist on the rise published across the globe. Stichiz is passionate about music and is an amazing radio personality.
During her visit to UIC, students not only learned about radio related topics, but also were inspired to strive toward achieving their goals at all cost. They were also motivated to be more creative in the ways to become successful.
Students were honored by receiving her amazing book “Tu Es Belle: You Are Beautiful: Abby’s Great Day” as a gift, which has positive messages for kids and adults as well. This extraordinary book is available through Amazon.
Students were able to learn about her and her personality through her interview on the radio show. She said that she started writing since she was 9 year old and she is already planning to write another great book.
Listen to her Radio Interview
UIC Celebrates its 17th Commencement Ceremony
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Post by Marcela Moyano
UIC Celebrates its 17th Commencement Ceremony
Miramar, FL- On Friday, June 21, United International College celebrated its 17th Commencement Ceremony at the Signature Grand at 7:00 p.m. and awarded six Associate degrees in Business Administration, three Associate degrees in International Business Management, four Associate degrees in Travel, Tourism Management and three Bachelor degrees in International Business Management, and one Bachelor degree in Travel and Tourism Management.
Nine of the students are from Vietnam, Four are from Colombia, three are from Venezuela and one is from United Arab Emirates.
The ceremony started with the academic procession of the faculty members; members of the board of directors, Angelica Moyano, Marcela Moyano, Lina Maria Moyano, and Liliana Moyano; followed by the commencement speaker, Robert Goltz; 17 graduate students; and finalized by UIC’s president, Lydia Bautista Möller. The commencement platform party was also joined by David Lesser, Director of the ESL program of United Language Institute.
The national anthem of the United States was interpreted by Lilian Lopez.
Subsequently, Lydia Bautista Möller. addressed the graduating class, recognized their commitment to success despite their challenges as international students, and identified each of the represented nationalities among the students. Also, she mentioned the importance of UIC’s Model of Holistic Education and the development of the students of their emotional and intuitive intelligence.
Her speech was followed Robert Goltz, President of the Miramar Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce, who focused his address on “opportunities.” Robert highlighted that along his extensive career working with successful entrepreneurs he concluded that their key to reaching success was taking advantage of the opportunities presented to them.
Gianna Corrales was the student graduating speaker who opened her speech inviting the audience and her classmates to be thankful for having reached that consulting moment of their undergraduate education journey. She also listed key concepts learned while studying at United International College such as (1) There is nothing wrong with starting all over (2) Have a vision of life 3) Always do your best.
Graduating students took the oath and sang the school’s anthem. Sandra Agudelo, a student earning an Associate degree in Travel and Tourism Management said the toast. Guests and UIC members had champagne to celebrate the class of 2019. #UICGrad2019
UIC Business Expo Showcases Future Entrepreneurs
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Post by Prof. Jack Rose
UIC Business Expo Showcases Future Entrepreneurs
Miramar, FL- Students in Professor Jack Rose’s Business Expo class put into motion a very successful Business Expo showcasing each of the students’ entrepreneurial spirit. After visiting the recent Bridal Expo at the Broward County Convention Center, the students began planning their own expo at the university. “By attending the Bridal Expo, students had the opportunity to visually see and experience a great expo and apply what they learned at the trade show for their own expo,” Rose said.
Roxana Acevedo’s Cantikdesign is fulfilling her wish to open a gallery of flowers that offers original, unique floral arrangements in the City of Weston. “The products and services that our company offers will be showcased and exhibited, and we will stress that Cantikdesign offers superior customer service using only the floral industry’s best quality products,” says Roxana.
She is combining her two passions, architecture and her love of flowers, and after launching Cantikdesign in Weston, Ms. Acevedo looks to expand into other cities in the USA. Her vision is “to become the leading flower shop brand in the florist industry and to establish the first gallery of flowers in Weston, expand to other Florida cities, and then spread to metropolitan cities throughout the country,” she eagerly and enthusiastically says during an interview.
Trei Solutions is an international company specializing in integrating world-class business technology solutions tailored to the needs of its clients, enhancing digital transformation, innovation, and profitability for their businesses. Trei’s high-quality solutions adapts to any sector of industry based on the best business practices for small and midsize businesses. The brainchild of Carolina Camacho, Trei Solutions offers innovation by providing consulting, support, and education services to each client. In a recent interview, Ms. Camacho stated that the “interest of Trei Solutions, as a company, is to support its clients by offering ideas on how to improve their business and how to prepare for the future with the use of information technology.”
Phuong Thi Nguyen unveiled her new restaurant, Pho Hoa, a Health Option Choice explaining that each item on the menu is her grandmother’s recipe. According to Phuong, “my grandmother always made healthy meals and taught us that healthy food brings a healthy life.”
Zamir Pinzon is the proud owner of DCL Professional Cleaning Service, Inc., and prides himself as being a company that far surpasses his competition. From floor to ceiling, and wall to wall, Pinzon will also offer his company’s services inside the residence, and for swimming pool owners, the pool area to make the whole house sparkle. Zamir stated, “No job is too small or too large for our company. Our goal is to provide outstanding service, which, in turn, will bring many recommendations from our clients.”
Thu Ha’s #handmadehouse specializes in leather crafts for the discerning customer looking for quality leather products. Her billfolds, wallets, and key chains all reflect the quality leather and craftsmanship in all of her products. Thu Ha is also looking to add a special line geared to businesses who want to recognize an employee or one of their own clients. She can monogram or engrave the product with the company’s name embossed on the item. “I am very excited about my line of fine leather crafts. Each item is handmade and the results are distinctive products for the astute customer who appreciates fine leather products.”
Vacayble.com and FLCottage is the brainchild of Ruth Fornica. Vacayble.com began as a vacation rental site, but has evolved into a specialized broker in remodeling (flipping), staging, and organizing permits and licenses necessary to become a host property. Ms. Fornica has spent considerable time “in planning and executing her business and offers lots of services, such as a Vacation Rental Platform, Photography and video to stream your vacation home in every hosting platform, and cleaning and housekeeping of your lodge.” She will happily work with any owner who is interested in turning their home into a vacation property.
Sandra Valentin unveiled her V & V Accounting Services, LLC. Her company provides services in accounting and assists clients with taxes and financial issues. In addition, V & V Accounting Services, LLC offers appropriate education and training in order to continue the path toward financial fitness to all clients. Ms. Valentin said, “Our services can save you time, reduce your tax liability, prevents you from receiving hefty tax penalties and fines, removes any tax anxieties, and most important, helps to grow your business.”
Gabriel Mendez disclosed his Sugar Bomb dessert business. Using only premium ingredients, Gabriel also caters to clients with different dietary needs, such as those who are lactose intolerant, those who need gluten-free products, and never uses preservatives in any of their products. Gabriel said, “It is not a mystery that one of the paths to happiness is through the stomach, and that’s why we bring you desserts that you will never forget. Sugar Bomb is the way to bring happiness to your family and friends.”
Just Deck It is the brainchild of Felipe Macias. Whether you would like a new deck to enhance your patio area, or would like your current deck remodeled, Just Deck It “will create a great looking deck that is made with the finest woods and with the finest stains produced, or sealing the selected wood with the finest sealants to protect the wood’s natural beauty,” said Macias.
In addition to building the deck, Just Deck It is available to help maintain the beauty of the deck on an annual contract basis.
Tran’s Limited Authentic Bakery is the innovation of Tran Van who hopes to open a store in South Florida and in his native Vietnam. He takes pride in his business by offering breads and baked goods made with organic ingredients, and offering new items daily. Employing a team of skilled bakers, Tran’s Limited Authentic Bakery is committed to providing customers with quality products that ensure food hygiene and safety at reasonable prices. He enthusiastically invited potential to taste his baked goods and proudly described his healthy ingredients used in one of his daily sandwiches – “made with organic pork with julienne cuts of carrots and papaya with healthy greens.”
Haiskel Tovar’s H&F Aircraft Cleaning and Detailing Services offers high quality professional aircraft cleaning and detailing services to small aircraft, corporate aviation, and private jets. Headquartered at the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, the company uses only approved cleaning materials and processes as specified in aircraft maintenance manuals. Haiskel’s company also offers mobile aircraft services using company vans that travel to the airport where the aircraft is based and performs their specialized services at the hangar or on the ramp. She stated, “An aircraft is not just a mode of transportation, it is a reflection of the owner’s personality. By having well-maintained, regularly detailed aircraft, you are protecting your investment as the aircraft ages over the year.”
Patricia Pinto happily announced Emi’s Bakery, a little piece of heavenly taste in your mouth, and provided guests with samples of her baked goods that everyone enjoyed. She also prepackaged treats for sale and guests walked away with bags of tasty treats.
Along with the student’s professional booth, the class hosted an array of light refreshments that were enjoyed by those who visited the expo.
Professor Rose had the last comment, smiling widely, and stating, “I feel like the proud father…or should I say grandfather!” “These students worked very hard and learned the many important ingredients to hosting a professional expo such as the marketing materials, product or service placement, and the importance of creating a positive image to potential clients. Your booth reflects your company, and how you market your product or service says a great deal – should I do business with this company?”
Social Media Today
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Post by Prof. Jack Rose
Social Media Today
On Wednesday evening, March 6th, Ofelia Zambrano, Founder and President of Presto Advertising visited Professor Jack Rose's Principles of Marketing class to talk about her company and the importance of social media today, not only for marketing your business, but not having negative social media on your personal sites.
"Social media needs to be part of any marketing plan in today's world of advertising and promotion," Ms. Zambrano stated, reviewing the positives of social media on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. "They are a great tool and marketing your business, both for maintaining and seeking new customers.
Mrs. Zambrano also shared how negativism on personal social media sites can hurt one's chance for an employment opportunity. "Today, many employers will use social media to find out information about you." "Anything negate can have a direct impact on whether or not you are offered a position." Professor Rose shared some examples of how negative social media prevented a company to hire the candidate.
Ms. Zambrano told the students how she got started and how networking is very important. "It's hard work, but if you really want to be successful, you'll succeed."
Following the presentation, Professor Rose presented Ofelia Zambrano, Founder and President of Presto Advertising with a Certificate of Appreciation for being an entrepreneurial role model for our students.
Kayaking at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
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Post by Tuan Nguyen
Kayaking at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
Dania Beach, FL- I had a wonderful day during my school beach field trip. I was so excited and prepared a lot for that trip. At the park, everything was perfect until I found out that I had forgotten some items at home. I was in a bothersome situation that should not be part of our trip. Therefore, I wrote this essay to give some advice for people planning their next kayaking experience.
First, you should wear comfortable clothes because the kayak is very small and moist. On that day, I saw a lady wearing a white skirt and spend a lot of time to get on the kayak, and also her face was very uncomfortable when she was kayaking. She tried to paddle and always looked down because she was scared that her clothes would get wet and dirty. Comfortable clothes could be the best choice in that situation, so you should wear swimwear or shorts. It could make you feel comfortable while you paddle as well as you enjoy nature while kayaking in the canal.
Second, you should wear neoprene shoes when you go kayaking, because the water can get in the kayak very easily, and you have to walk from the rental court to the kayak ramp to get on the kayak. It could be a challenge when you have to take your sneakers off to get on the kayak; not to mention that you have to leave your sneakers at the ramp without any attention. Also, a sun-shielding hat, and the paddling gloves could help you a lot in a very hot day and can protect your hands.
Third, you should prepare a list of very useful personal items, such as: sunglasses and sunscreen for a sunny day, and water and snacks for the break time. They also sell water and snacks at the park, but there are not many choices. If you want to save money and have more food and drink choices, you should bring them with you. Moreover, your ID and credit card are the most important items that you must bring to make the rental and don’t forget a water proof case to protect your phone, ID, and credit card from the water. I didn’t know that the rental company requires ID and credit card. I had left them in my car, so I had to go back very far to the parking lot to get them. It drove me crazy even thought it was my fault.
Finally, you should be smart when you go kayaking. The fee of kayak rental was charged by the hour. You should know the exact time to go and come back to avoid being charged extra fees. Moreover, if you are excited about this activity, I advise you to buy your own kayak, because if you go kayaking once a week, you would spend hundreds per month, and after a few months the amount of money that you spend could be over the value of a new kayak. In addition, when you own a kayak, you don’t have to worry about the closing time of the park because you can go to any boat ramp, and not only the one at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
To conclude, you should follow the advice listed above and do a check list to make sure your kayaking experience is exceptional. Everyone has a different idea about preparation, but this is my kayaking experience after the Spring field trip with United International College.
A Few Hours into Micro-Farming
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Post by Laura Steudel
A Few Hours Into Micro-Farming
Miramar, FL- This past March 13, 2019, I was able to attend the Miramar Community Garden along with my Holistic Human Development class, where we met Elsi Rose, the Development and Capital Management Coordinator of the Miramar Community Garden. Elsi’s enthusiasm towards the project was palpable, and her happiness at reaching others with the project’s mission was inspiring.
The project started taking shape back in 2009 and was finally planted and started in May 2010. The Garden is located in Fairway Park at 3700 Largo Drive and expands 3,150 square feet. It is the first demonstration of “micro-farming system” or “urban farming” in Broward County. The most amazing part is that it’s tended by its very own volunteers, and as of now they have about 45 members who work continuously on the garden. These volunteers are separated into groups, and each of these groups has their very own team leader, this way the garden is tended to every day by a rotation of different volunteers. The garden is very organized, and each section is denoted by letters, which represent crops assigned to each group. Nine years in the making, you can see the amazing development of the garden, where a variety of crops are spread out, crops of tomatoes, papaya, bananas, eggplants, yucca, peppers, kale, oregano, and much more can be seen spread out. You can literally make a salad of your own by just walking around this amazing garden, and how amazing is that?
We were also able to see the different projects that are being developed in the garden. They have installed their very own hydroponic system, which was a first for us to see; they even make their own compost and run events every third Saturday of the month, actually, this last Saturday March 16, after they worked on the garden during the morning hours, they opened their gates to invite their members and friends to a Raw Food Recipes demonstration. This just shows that this garden is not simply to sustain and an opportunity to grow organic produce, but a gateway to healthy living while helping others connect not only to their environment but also with their community. The Miramar Community Garden makes you wish for one of these amazing gardens in every corner, such a simple bare space repurposed to support the environment and its very own people.
There is so much to be done, and so many amazing people involved, like their very own “Farmer Alex” who works tirelessly in expanding and teaching others about growing their plants and produce. You will also get to meet their very own kitty protector, who will immediately greet you as soon as you enter the garden, and many more interesting people, ready to teach and support one another. Everyone is welcome, you don’t even need to live in Miramar to participate and become a member, just fill out the application in here, or email Elsi at erose@ci.miramar.fl.us, or start small and simply start your very own garden of herbs, in your kitchen window sill! If you simply want to learn more, follow them on their Facebook page here.
Public Radio Nerds: A Tour to WLRN
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Post by Ximena Caraballo
Public Radio Nerds: A Tour to WLRN
March 19, Miami, FL- As a student of Communications and Mass Media of United International College, I must say that every time, I am more convinced of how fascinating this career is. On March 19, my Speaking on Radio class had the opportunity to take a tour of WLRN Channel 17 studios in down town Miami.
As soon as we arrived, we met Mrs. Adrienne Kennedy, Executive Producer of WLRN Public Radio and Television, who welcomed us and hosted our amazing two and a half hour tour. First of all, she explained to us how the radio works, along with the building for radio and television production were designed. Then we went to the area of control rooms and studios where programs such as Sunshine Economy are recorded.
Then, we met Ms. Pilar Uribe, who is a renowned Colombian actress. Uribe, aside from being a television artist, is also a talented voiceover actress in both Spanish and English for WLRN. She kindly explained how she is successful in both worlds.
Afterwards, we went to the Newsroom where we met Ms. Alejandra Martinez, who is the associate producer of Sundial, she told us her responsibilities such as interviewing, producing and publishing her stories on WLRN. Finally, we visited the television area where the studios dazzled my classmates and me. It was an enriching tour that motivated me to continue studying more about this wonderful and exciting media field.
Learn about our Communications and Mass Media Program
Critical Thinking Students Tour the Stunning Wynwood Walls
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Post by Prof. Aleksander Chonevski
Critical Thinking Students Tour the Stunning Wynwood Walls
March 4, 2019, Miramar, FL- Prof. Aleksander Chonevski, took his students enrolled in the Critical Thinking course on a tour to the Wynwood Walls. He wrote the letter below to his students:
Dear United PHI 225 Critical Thinking students,
I would like to share a photo we took together when we experienced the Wynwood Walls today. Thanks to all of you for attending the short class. I appreciated your curiosity and your many positive questions. You may ask why we chose this art-based lifestyle modern-contemporary presentation and how it integrates with our Critical Thinking?
Shaffee (2019) in Thinking Critically, reminds us to predict and then achieve our goals. We are becoming effective decision makers in our controversial complex world with an organized fashion in becoming powerful problem solvers. We have the chance to became familiar in a world that is part of the performing arts, the greatest worldwide Art Basel cultural festival, that is close to our community, and exposing student's hearts, souls, beliefs, life-stories, anecdotes, and metaphors in the free world and in our world where each individual builds. You are part of that as well.
In learning how to understand this concept at this moment, all of you can now understand other languages, other thoughts, and different ways of thinking. Do not forget that we are looking at the same figure/picture with the different lenses, developing different ideas. Each of us connects with different stories and to understand the world in such complex way, you have learned what is valid and what is sound (your midterm test), what is inductive and deductive (again). Your arguments support your ideas, (bravo for all of you who brought us different ideas) via concepts and support your beliefs; however, this doesn't mean that you are right or wrong. Eventually, this will become your verdict. In this critical process, your verdict must be proven by your individual abilities to enlighten your career path just as the murals on the Wynwood Walls.
Even though this trip was short, I feel that all of you received excellent benefits. Just look at your faces in the picture and note that you are happy and smiling.
I would like to extend a special thank you to our visitor, Photographer Vanoti (who came to share his experience as an artistic photographer with us).
I apologize that the exhibit was closed but I found that this trip was extremely productive as we saw many works of arts while walking around the block.
Aleksandar Chonevski, Ph.D. Student,
Researcher, Lecturer, & Institutional
Outreach Advisor
