Tag Archives: Filipino

Jeremy Gaviola Quero

Jeremy Quero

Near the river in Budapest in the pest side!

NAME: Jeremy Gaviola Quero

MAJOR: Engineering Technology Manufacturing Systems

PROGRAM: Business and Society – Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences – Rotterdam Netherlands (Spring 2023), The Intern Group – Hong Kong Special administrative regions of China (Summer 2025)

EMAIL: jeremy.quero@sjsu.edu

BIO: 

Prior to this experience, studying abroad was not part of my academic plan. I had envisioned my college journey as a straightforward path—attending classes and returning home for four years. However, that perspective changed when a study abroad representative visited my engineering careers class and introduced the possibility of studying internationally. This encounter ultimately led me to spend the Spring 2023 semester at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS), an experience that I believe every student should consider. I stepped out of my comfort zone, got to understand Dutch culture as well as the many other cultures present, and most importantly, I traveled across Europe with the friends I made in Rotterdam. In Summer 2025, I will further enhance my international experience by participating in The Intern Group program in Hong Kong for ten weeks. This opportunity will allow me to gain practical experience in engineering while expanding my professional and cultural understanding on a global scale. To any student considering studying or interning abroad—take the leap. These experiences go beyond academics; they are transformative opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural exploration, and self-discovery.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

I wanted to challenge myself by immersing myself in a completely new environment—living in a country where I had no prior experience, adapting to its culture, and learning how to navigate life on my own. My goal was not just to study abroad, but to truly understand how the Netherlands operates—both culturally and academically—and to prove to myself that I could succeed in a foreign setting. Living independently in a new country taught me valuable life skills, from managing day-to-day responsibilities to building connections with people from diverse backgrounds. On a professional level, I embraced the challenges that my host university presented, tackling them head-on with determination and resilience. Through this experience, I not only grew as a student but also as an individual, gaining confidence in my ability to adapt, overcome obstacles, and thrive in any environment.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact this experience had on me was not just gaining a global perspective, but also rediscovering my own identity. As an American citizen, I’ve always been immersed in a diverse culture, but studying abroad reminded me of my roots—what it truly means to be a Filipino. Being in a foreign country, away from familiar surroundings, allowed me to reflect on my heritage and appreciate the values instilled in me by my culture. Living alone and adjusting to a completely new environment pushed me to become more independent, resilient, and adaptable. I learned how to navigate challenges, embrace uncertainty, and find ways to succeed on my own. Beyond personal growth, this experience also changed the way I see education and work. Observing how students from different countries approach learning, problem-solving, and collaboration opened my eyes to new perspectives. I took the best aspects of their work ethics and applied them to my own, ultimately shaping me into a more well-rounded and globally aware individual.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

When it comes to research and presentations, ensuring success requires more than just preparation—it demands initiative and action. To excel, I make it a priority to take the first step by actively engaging in the process. Instead of relying solely on existing information, I go out into the field, make observations, and gather firsthand insights. By applying this proactive approach, I not only strengthen my research but also build confidence in my ability to analyze, present, and communicate effectively. Taking initiative allows me to develop a deeper understanding of my subject matter, making my presentations more insightful, engaging, and impactful.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? 

During my time abroad, I developed and strengthened several key skills: focus, resiliency, and perseverance. Focus: Studying abroad meant balancing independence, academics, and social life. I wanted to make the most of my time in Rotterdam—exploring the city and enjoying activities with the friends I made. However, I knew that in order to fully enjoy these experiences, I had to stay disciplined. I made it a priority to complete all my assignments before heading out, ensuring that I met my academic responsibilities while still making time for adventure. Resiliency: Adapting to a new academic system came with its challenges. The professors at RUAS often had different expectations, and there were moments when assignment instructions lacked clarity due to a lack of communication between faculty members. Rather than getting frustrated, I learned to adapt, ask the right questions, and deliver my best work despite the uncertainties. Perseverance: Moving to a new country alone meant stepping out of my comfort zone in more ways than one. I had to rebuild my social circle from scratch, which pushed me to take more initiative both in and outside of school. Through this, I formed friendships with students from all over the world, from Germany to Indonesia. This experience expanded my perspective beyond Dutch culture, allowing me to immerse myself in a truly global community. These skills—focus, resiliency, and perseverance—not only helped me thrive during my study abroad experience but continue to shape me as a student and professional today.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? 

One of the biggest takeaways from my study abroad experience was realizing that there is no single way to learn, work, or live. Different countries have their own educational systems, cultural expectations, and approaches to problem-solving. What might be considered a standard practice in one country can be entirely different in another. For example, at SJSU, the education system is structured with clear syllabi, assignment deadlines, and professors who frequently check in with students. In contrast, at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences , I noticed that the teaching approach was more independent, with professors expecting students to take more initiative in figuring out assignments. Sometimes, there were miscommunications between instructors, which required adaptability and problem-solving skills. This experience taught me how to navigate ambiguity and become more self-sufficient in my studies. Beyond academics, cultural differences also influence how people interact and collaborate. In some cultures, teamwork and collective decision-making are highly valued, while in others, individual initiative is encouraged. Meeting students from diverse backgrounds helped me see that there isn’t a “right” or “wrong” way to work—just different approaches shaped by history, traditions, and societal norms. Understanding this has made me more open-minded and adaptable when working in international environments. This realization is something I will carry with me into my future career. The world is increasingly interconnected, and being able to adapt to different working styles, respect diverse perspectives, and embrace new ways of learning will be crucial in any professional setting. This perspective has already pushed me further, leading me to apply for and secure a position with The Intern Group in Hong Kong for Summer 2025. I am eager to experience yet another work culture and gain even more insights into how people around the world approach education and business.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? 

This experience prepared me not just for school but for life. The way I see things now is completely different from how I did in those six months in 2023. Moving forward, studying abroad has taught me to be more independent and has given me greater confidence in my academic methods. Meeting new people from different backgrounds helped me realize that everyone has their own way of working and their own unique journey. Personally, I will continue to challenge myself by taking more risks to grow and become more successful. Studying abroad pushed me beyond my limits, inspiring me to seek even greater opportunities. Because of this, I took another leap and successfully secured a position with The Intern Group for the Hong Kong program in Summer 2025. This is another step in my journey of personal and professional growth, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

If I could give one piece of advice to future Global Spartans, it would be this: take initiative and challenge yourself—not just as a student, but as a person. Studying or interning abroad is more than just an academic or professional experience; it’s an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exploration, and self-discovery. Wherever you go, embrace the journey with an open mind and a willingness to push your limits. It’s natural to feel nervous about traveling to a new country, especially if it’s your first time living abroad. However, don’t let fear hold you back. The only person stopping you from experiencing life is yourself. Say yes to opportunities, whether it’s trying new foods, learning a new language, or making friends from different backgrounds. Every new experience will help shape you into a more confident, adaptable, and globally aware individual. Opportunities like these don’t come around often. Make the most of them. Whether you’re studying, interning, or volunteering abroad, commit yourself fully to the experience. Engage with your host culture, get involved in local activities, and challenge yourself academically and professionally. There will be moments of uncertainty and challenges along the way, but that’s where the real growth happens. While academics or professional work are important, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. Travel, explore, and immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. Meet new people, form lifelong friendships, and create memories that you’ll carry with you forever. The best stories come from the experiences you never expected to have, so be spontaneous and embrace the adventure. One of the greatest gifts of studying or interning abroad is the perspective it gives you. You’ll return home with a new way of seeing the world—more open-minded, more adaptable, and more prepared to take on future challenges. These experiences shape you into a better global citizen, capable of working and connecting with people from all walks of life. So to all future Global Spartans, take that leap of faith. Challenge yourself, step beyond what’s comfortable, and embrace every moment. The lessons you’ll learn, the friendships you’ll make, and the experiences you’ll gain will stay with you for a lifetime.

Jaime Elepano

Jaime Elepano

MAJOR: Software Engineering

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kyushu University, Japan

EMAIL: manueljaime.elepano@sjsu.edu

BIO: I’m a 5th Year Software Engineering Major who also does a lot of work in education/mentorship, working as a swim coach and a tutor with Peer Connections. In the early stages I explored studying abroad due to curiosity, partly because a friend at the time has told me about a similar experience. I’d always been interested in immersing myself in Japanese culture as more than a tourist and this was a prime opportunity to do so while keeping up with academics. As my program approached, I’d also hit a point in my life where I began to stagnate and so I used my opportunity to study abroad to reset and regain my passion for learning and exploration.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: As mentioned prior, I’ve worked various jobs in mentorship and guidance. I’ve worked for 2 years as a Swim Coach with Pacifica Sea Lions Swim Club, am in my 4th semester working with SJSU Peer Connections as a Peer Educator, and also worked with SJSU Research Foundation in the Kyushu University ELEP Program as a conversation partner. I also had the role of a Martial Arts Instructor at Shaolin Kenpo Karate for over 5 years where I worked with students ranging from as young as age 5 to as old as 60. I can confidently say I have diverse experience in a leadership role, both in a volunteer and professional capacity, working with people of various age ranges (Often College Age) as well as various cultural backgrounds.

GOALS: Once again echoing previous responses, my primary goal was shift of perspective. Both to help with my stagnation, as well as break out of my cultural bubble, I wanted to truly immerse myself in a new culture: speak the native language, converse with natives and explore their ways of thinking, adapt to a new way of life. I can say that my experience was truly eye opening as I not only learned about another culture, but deepened my appreciation for my own native and ethnic culture (American and Filipino respectively). By speaking to Japanese natives, I both heard their stories as well as gained insight from their perspective on my home cultures, allowing me to more intentionally evaluate my viewpoints. Furthermore, I gained additional insight speaking to international students from other cultures, some I never expected to experience!

I biked the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road, a 75 km route connecting the main Japanese Island of Honshu (at Onomichi, Hiroshima) to Shikoku (at Imabari, Ehime)

ACADEMICS: Due to language restrictions, my class selection was quite limited. I studied in the Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Innovation. I was able to explore subjects outside my primary major and it’s inspired some interesting ideas for future projects. In terms of strategies, the classes, due to meeting less and having content divided into more separate classes, I actually found my workload to be much lighter. If anything, it reinforced my confidence in the amount of experience I’ve accrued to this point. Because of this, I decided I wouldn’t settle for complacency and went above and beyond in my classwork, even working on some side projects to implement some of what I learned and enhance my experience abroad. In the past few days starting back with SJSU classes, this desire to go above and beyond has stuck with me as I’ve become even more focused and motivated to succeed in this last year. Beyond my academics, I’ve been hard at work to improve one of the on-campus clubs I am currently a part of. It’s been tiring work, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made in this short time.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: I’d say the most significant impact of my immersion has been my perspective on international relations. As mentioned, I have a newfound appreciation for both my home country here in the US, as well as my ethnic culture of the Philippines. Before now, I’d never had a huge interest in travelling, but now I want to visit a number of other countries, not to see sights, but see how their people live. From the standards of service, to the way people communicate, the stark differences between Japan and the US became clear to me. I also heard similar insights from my fellow international students from Germany, Thailand and Hong Kong, making me curious to visit these countries and gain firsthand experiences with these nuanced cultural differences.

CAREER: As my workload was much lighter, I was able to more intently reflect and plan. I got back into journaling and meticulous scheduling that revolved daily action items as well as daily reflections. The impact this had on my mood and my productivity was night and day and I hope to carry this over to my last year at SJSU. I also have a new sense of self confidence and independence. I went on numerous solo trips to other cities and constantly found myself spontaneously trying new things and making mistakes along the way. Rather than discouraging me, I found myself wanting to go on more adventures. The allure of the unknown awakened a sense of curiosity within me making want to constantly try new things and go on new adventures, despite the bumps along the road. Now I’m this new semester, when faced with a choice to settle for the comfortable option or try a new, uncertain option, I almost always choose the latter, relishing the chance for a new experience.

PERSONAL GROWTH: Almost everyone who’s welcomed me back has commented on how much “brighter” I am. As mentioned before, I have a new sense of confidence, with the difference from before my term abroad being so significant, many can see it from my face alone. A lot of the specifics have been covered in previous sections, but essentially, my self confidence has improved, as well as my appreciation for everyday life and new experiences. I find myself more inclined to throw caution to the wind in return for new insights and knowledge, we well as more motivated to strive for greater heights, both academically and personally.

IDENTITIES: In my last year, I haven’t done much in terms of my career (applying to internships and the like) due to other circumstances and have also felt inferior to many of my colleagues. Seeing how my skills contributed to the work I did abroad, as well as having the time and space to reflect on myself and my life in the present moment reinforced just how much experience I truly have, and helped reestablish that personal confidence in myself.

FUTURE:  Studying abroad boosted my self-confidence and was the first step to many opportunities. My newfound curiosity has opened new avenues for me, making me more inclined to seize opportunities that come my way rather than staying within a comfort zone. I grew so much from the experience, and my desire to learn more and more has made me a better person both personally and professionally. allowing for more growth that the already significant development that I’ve already gained up to this point.

TIPS:  As I’ve mentioned many times already, my self confidence has been greatly improved. I feel this is the first step to many opportunities. On that note, my newfound curiosity I feel will also open many more avenues, making me more inclined to not let good opportunities slip by in favor or staying within a comfort zone. Finally, my desire to learn more and more will certainly make me a better person both personally and professionally, allowing for more growth that the already significant development that I’ve already gained up to this point.