Gaetjens Cadet

Gaetjens Cadet stands by finishing what he starts regardless of how long it takes and what obstacles are in the way. Nearly 27 years ago, he paused his studies at FIU, and today, Gaetjens receives a bachelor’s in international business.

In the fall of 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic intensified, Gaetjens returned to FIU Online from his home in Nashville. A single father to three boys, ranging in age from 13 to 18, resuming his studies wasn’t easy. He had to balance home life, work and school and managed to complete the program ahead of schedule graduating Summa Cum Laude.

“When life throws you curve balls you have to dodge it or hold on to that ball until you can place it where it needs to go,” he said.

Today, Gaetjens sees that the hard work of returning to school pays off. The FIU Business program has helped him gain better insights into the international business world's inner workings and leverage his professional and educational experience to excel in the future. Gaetjens believes in being a lifetime learner and says, “you can learn something from everybody, no matter who they are because everyone has something unique to offer or bring to the table.”

Recently, Gaetjens learned he was accepted into FIU Business’s Online Master of International Business program. And he’s already planning his next adventure.

Once his three sons have finished high school and graduated, Gaetjens hopes to take on an overseas assignment, taking a deep dive into the international business landscape.

Cynthia Corzo
Associate Director, Media Relations and Communications
College of Business