Two students from South America put the “world” in Penn State World Campus at the University’s spring 2024 graduation ceremonies.
One student made the journey from Colombia with his family to get his master’s degree. Another student was joined by his parents, who traveled from Argentina to see him get his bachelor’s degree.
Graduate Jheison Urzola is from Medellín, Colombia. He brought his wife, son, daughter, and mother with him for the special day.
“When I listened (to) my name in the graduation ceremony, I was so proud,” Urzola said. “I couldn’t believe I could achieve this achievement, this goal. It’s an example for my children.”
Urzola said he always dreamt of getting a degree from an American university. He is a systems engineer in Colombia. He was able to attend Penn State online through Penn State World Campus and completed a master’s degree in information science.
Mauricio Dell hails from the city of Córdoba, Argentina, and lives in Houston, Texas, with his wife. His parents still live in Argentina and made the transcontinental journey to see their son cross the stage to get his diploma.
“It was really important for me to have them here. They are really proud,” Dell said. “This means a lot to me. It’s an experience that I couldn’t have imagined in my life.”
Dell received a bachelor’s degree in finance. He plans to go to law school in Texas so he can be an estate lawyer to help the Latino community there.
Penn State World Campus offers a Penn State degree online, with a comprehensive selection of more than 200 degrees and certificates. Its students come from countries all over the world.
Learn more about the requirements and resources available for international students who would like to learn online through Penn State World Campus.