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Gilberto Tellez

“I got a lot of knowledge from Richland’s International Business and Trade program. I was taking some other courses, but once I took a course in International Business, I knew that it was what I wanted to do. I have a lot of places to go, people to meet, money to make. I’m working as a restaurant manager right now, but I want to get more experience in international business. I’d like to own my own company someday. 

“I want to do something where I can travel and not be stuck in an office doing the same thing every day. When I first got to the U.S. — my family came here from Monterey, Mexico — the first two years were the most difficult. People just act differently here than they do in Mexico and understanding those cultural differences will help me in the future in my career. I think it’s important to speak Spanish in Texas, there’s such a huge Spanish-speaking population here. It can really give you an edge in business.

“I want to get a bachelor’s degree. The best and most important thing is the knowledge I learned in Richland’s program. I’ve learned things that I know I will use someday in my career. I’ve learned a lot of things that I’ll be able to put into practice.” 

Gilberto Tellez earned an associate degree in International Business and Trade from Richland. He is bilingual in Spanish and English.


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Sharon Gray

Sharon D. Gray

Network Operations Manager AT&T Mobility
“I’ve learned that it’s never too late for your dreams to come true — you just have to keep pushing. With patience and determination, hard work will pay off. It just takes getting started. Going back to school was definitely one of the best choices I’ve made in my life, and I’m starting to see it pay off.”
Business and Management
Sarah Martinez

Sarah Martinez

Hilton Dallas/Park Cities
“This program definitely made me feel inclusive and opens its doors to all walks of life to an industry that otherwise I would have never experienced or found on my own. I would tell people going through the program to take risks and try as many positions in this field. You never know when you may find your niche.”
Business and Management
Sharon Daniels-Megginson

Sharon Daniels-Megginson

Real Estate Broker and CEO Sharon Daniels Properties and Real Estate Specialist and Adjunct Faculty
“I was also able to apply for my real estate license exam with my associate degree. I make it my goal to tell other students, real estate agents and everyone I meet in the real estate field about furthering their education and obtaining a degree at the same time.”
Real Estate

Pat Sykes

Director H&R Block Premium
“The on-the-job applications drew the positive attention of my boss and enhanced my performance in the workplace. The Management Program helped develop the skill sets necessary to lead and coach others.”
Business and Management
Gilberto Tellez
Gilberto Tellez
Manager Fernando’s Mexican Cuisine

International Business and Trade
School of Business, Hospitality and Global Trade
Updated September 16, 2025