An International Student Success Story That Inspires
When you feel lost, what do you do?
Most of us start searching for a place where we can breathe again—a space to reflect, reassess, and reconnect with the version of ourselves that feels true. Being lost forces us to pause. It invites us to weigh our choices carefully and imagine the different futures our decisions could create.
When Armando Parejo left Venezuela, he wasn’t simply boarding a plane toward a new country. He was stepping into uncertainty, carrying hopes bigger than his circumstances and questions heavier than his luggage. Armando wasn’t looking for a destination—he was searching for direction, security, and an environment where he could rebuild and continue shaping his future with purpose.
He found all of that, and much more, at Cumorah Academy—one of many international student success stories that show how transformative the right environment can be.
A Path That Began in Iceland
How International Student Success Stories Begin in Unexpected Places
Armando first heard about Cumorah Academy in one of the most unexpected places: a simple Church meeting in the quiet, windswept landscapes of Iceland.
Far from home, surrounded by a culture and climate completely different from the one he grew up in, he received a piece of information that would change the course of his life.
“I knew I had to leave the country soon,” he explains. “I was looking for new ideas and new opportunities. Some friends told me about Cumorah, and here I am.”
At that point in his life, things were steady but uncertain. He was studying Business online through BYU–Idaho and working part-time, doing his best to move forward despite the limitations of his situation. But deep down, he felt a gap—a sense that he needed something more practical, more immersive, more transformative. Something that would not just educate him, but accelerate him.
He wanted real challenges. Real mentors. Real experiences that would help him gain the skills—and the confidence—to build the future he imagined for himself.
Cumorah Academy became that opportunity.
A Place Full of Opportunity
From the moment he arrived, Armando could feel the difference.
“I saw so many opportunities here,” he says. “I really like that every week we have new mentors. We get feedback, new ideas, so many perspectives.”
Mentorship is one of the things that sets Cumorah Academy apart, and Armando quickly embraced it. Week after week, he learned from industry professionals, service-oriented leaders, and people who had built successful businesses of their own.
Another major reason he came? Business.
Since he was already pursuing a business degree online, Armando wanted a real, in-person experience, and Cumorah was a great step forward.
“I decided to start a business here,” he states. “It’s been great so far.”
Strengthening the Skills That Matter Most
While many students come to Cumorah Academy hoping to improve their English or gain leadership training, Armando discovered something even more transformative—his soft skills.
“I’ve developed really, really, really good soft skills here,” he says with a smile. “Those are the strongest ones.”
Leadership.
Teamwork.
Confidence.
Communication.
These weren’t just concepts taught in class—they became habits, daily practices, and personal breakthroughs.
But one class, in particular, shifted everything: Public Speaking.
“Even though my English is so-so, I’ve been able to improve,” he explains. “I can speak better in front of people now. I can give really good speeches.”
For Armando, this wasn’t just about speaking in a second language—it was about learning to be heard, to express ideas with clarity, and to share his story boldly.
At Cumorah Academy, students don’t just refine their English.
They find their voices.
Looking Ahead: Business, Learning, and AI Engineering
Armando’s ambition didn’t stop at Cumorah Academy’s door. He has plans—big ones.
His next steps include:
- Continuing his business project
- Finishing his BYU–Idaho degree
- And soon, applying to study AI Engineering in Spain
“That’s really exciting,” he says. “I just want to keep learning and keep growing.”
Cumorah Academy helped him gain the confidence to pursue opportunities he once saw as distant dreams.
A Message for Future Students
When he was asked what he would tell the next generation of Cumorah Academy students, Armando shared:
“Enjoy your time here. Make great connections. And never give up.”
The simple kind of advice you only give after experiencing real growth.
Gratitude for the People Who Lifted Him
Like many students, Armando’s favorite part of Cumorah Academy wasn’t just the classes; it was the people.
“I’ve met so many good people here,” he says, mentioning:
- Patrick Sedivy (Cumorah Academy’s founder and CEO)
- Elder & Sister Fisher
- Friends like Juan Diego, Fernando, and Carlos
- And tutors and mentors like Anna
“I feel so grateful for them,” he says. “Thank you so much. I’m really grateful for you.”
At Cumorah Academy, friendships become family, mentors become guides, and ordinary moments become life-changing experiences.
A New Future Built With Courage
Armando’s journey carried him from Venezuela to Iceland and finally to the heart of the Czech Republic. Along the way, he discovered opportunity, education, friendship, and—most importantly—a clearer vision of the person he wants to become.
His story reminds us that true growth rarely happens inside our comfort zone. It begins the moment we choose to step into the unknown, trusting that new places and new people can shape our future for the better.
For Armando, Cumorah Academy wasn’t just another stop on his journey—it became the launching point for a future built with confidence, purpose, and courage.If you’re ready to grow, discover your potential, and build your own life-changing journey—just like Armando—apply to join Cumorah Academy.
Your next chapter could begin here.
Written by Emily Grow
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
