"I’m not a successful person yet, but I’m on the path," says young Cuban Joan Escandel (Bayamo, 2004). After studying up to the eleventh grade at a sports school in Jiguaní (Granma), he emigrated to the United States three years ago. In Cuba, he primarily focused on baseball, but during the pandemic, while confined at home, his priorities shifted. He discovered a passion for finance, business, and technology.
This newfound interest led him to apply for a scholarship at the Tetr College of Business, a U.S.-based business school that promotes hands-on learning in the field. Essentially, students learn to conduct business by actually doing it. Out of 91,000 applicants, only 80 received the welcome kit in a green box that reads "You're in!" Joan was among the fortunate few.
The scholarship covers all expenses, including stays in eight countries, but since he resides in Orlando, Florida, it counts as seven for him. His education will include six-month stints in Dubai (United Arab Emirates), New Delhi (India), Singapore, Ghana, New York, Silicon Valley in San Francisco (U.S.), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Milan (Italy), and Madrid (Spain).
In an interview with CiberCuba, Joan explains that his dream is to one day ring the bell at the stock exchange and perhaps do business in Cuba. Currently, he is working with a friend from Brazil on software that uses Artificial Intelligence to protect banks from fraud through voice duplication.
Joan recounts that the most challenging part upon arriving in the United States was learning the language within three months and adapting to a new culture and life. Now, the prospect of stays in seven countries, starting on August 31 with six months in Dubai, feels like "emigrating all over again," he explains.
Among his attributes, Joan highlights his resilience, a trait he attributes to his immigration experience, as well as his humility. But above all, he is driven by an insatiable hunger to conquer the world; to give it his all at the right age. "It's now or never," he declares.
The recipe for achieving the success he has at 20 years old is persistence. "Don't give up, keep knocking on doors, and if they don't open, break them down," he advises. Joan has never given up and has tried repeatedly until he succeeded. This story of perseverance is what he wants to share with young Cubans of his age. He wants to inspire them to dream big and chase their dreams relentlessly.
Insights on Joan Escandel's Journey and Scholarship
In this section, we address common questions about Joan Escandel's journey from Cuba to the United States and his remarkable scholarship opportunities.
What is the Tetr College of Business?
The Tetr College of Business is a U.S.-based business school that emphasizes hands-on learning in the field of business. Students learn to conduct business by actually engaging in business activities.
How many applicants were selected for the scholarship?
Out of 91,000 applicants, only 80 were selected to receive the scholarship at the Tetr College of Business.
What countries will Joan Escandel be visiting as part of his scholarship?
Joan will be visiting Dubai (UAE), New Delhi (India), Singapore, Ghana, New York, Silicon Valley (U.S.), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Milan (Italy), and Madrid (Spain).
What project is Joan currently working on?
Joan is working with a friend from Brazil on software that utilizes Artificial Intelligence to protect banks from fraud through voice duplication.