SHL Alumni Spotlight: Boris Escalona Berbetty

Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, I came to the United States in 1995 in search of better educational opportunities that would lead me to a career in higher education. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies from Florida International University in 2010, I took some time to find the right graduate program to advance my career. I eventually discovered East Carolina University’s Master of Science in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality—the first of its kind—which inspired me to apply. The rest is history.

Driven by my passion for the hotel industry, customer service, and tourism, I found a program that not only supported my professional goals but also helped guide my career path. After more than 20 years in higher education—16 of those in accounting and human resources—completing this program has allowed me to focus on international education over the past four years, growing personally, professionally, and academically.

I have had the opportunity to connect with industry leaders in hospitality and tourism, particularly through my involvement with Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP). In my current role as an International Scholar Advising Specialist at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I assist scholars through all stages of their experience, gaining valuable insight into the visa process and cross-cultural support.

As an aspiring researcher, I am now pursuing a doctoral degree in education with a specialization in intercultural competence and sustainable tourism. All of these experiences are grounded in my time at East Carolina University’s College of Business. I am deeply grateful to the faculty and the MS program for helping shape me into the professional I am today.