“UoPeople Taught Me That Persistence Can Turn Difficult Chapters into a Hopeful Future,” Says Vincenzo C., a Computer Science Student

Based in Sicily, Italy, Vincenzo C. is pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at University of the People. He works as an IT specialist and runs his personal brand for independent IT and data services.

For him, enrolling at UoPeople represents more than earning a degree. “This program is not only an academic goal; it is a way to bring structure and meaning to years of self-directed learning and professional experience in the IT world. UoPeople’s flexibility helps me balance my professional responsibilities well. During the week, I study and collaborate remotely on machine learning and AI data projects, while most of my freelance client work takes place on the weekends,” he shares.

An only child, Vincenzo describes himself as quite “shy” during his early years. “Curiosity gradually pushed me toward technology and hands-on learning. Although financial constraints prevented me from attending university immediately after high school, I continued developing my skills independently—often experimenting with computers and software in a small garage workspace I lovingly called my bunker.”

Over time, he pursued professional training and certifications from global technology companies and gained practical experience in the IT field. After the passing of his mother following a long illness, Vincenzo made a decision that marked a turning point in his life.

“I still carry her with me, and her absence remains one of the deepest motivations behind my decision to build a life that is meaningful and well directed,” he shares.

About a year later, he founded Mav’s LAB and decided to return to a long-term academic goal by enrolling at UoPeople. Since starting the program in 2025, he has completed close to ten courses and maintained a cumulative GPA between 3.80 and 4.00.

Outside of work and study, Vincenzo enjoys training on a boxing bag, playing online video games with friends, and relaxing with his partner, Valentina, and their two cats, Yuki and Kyria.

Looking ahead, he hopes to continue expanding his work at the intersection of IT, data analysis, and machine learning.

“University of the People is helping me translate a long history of practical experience into a formal foundation,” he says. “Most importantly, it is helping me prove to myself that persistence, when paired with structure, can turn even difficult chapters into a hopeful future.”

As a university, we are impressed by Vincenzo’s discipline, resilience, and determination, and wish him the very best for the future.