Career-focused education is the name of the game at Computer Systems Institute (CSI). Our programs give students from around the world the education they need to succeed. We step beyond focusing solely on technical lessons by teaching students important academic skills like critical thinking, theory, writing, along with other valuable insights that will be instrumental to their careers. Our students get the best of both worlds: a combination of formal college-level coursework AND practical training. When it comes to the latter, many of our international students pursue Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during their academic studies and/or Optional Practical Training (OPT) following their graduation. Doing so allows them to take the education they gain at CSI and apply it in a professional setting. Bruno Gugelmin, a CSI graduate, has found success putting his classroom learnings to work through OPT.
From Brazil to Boston
A Brazil native, Bruno’s introduction to the American education system took place in 2016 when he enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at one of CSI’s Boston locations. In Bruno’s words, “The best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it, so I knew I needed to live in the U.S. and surround myself with native speakers.”
After finishing his ESL program, Bruno decided to continue his education at CSI because of our diverse business, healthcare, and IT offerings. Most recently he completed our Business Career Program, concentration in Digital Multimedia.
With improved English skills and a top-notch education under his belt, Bruno was ready to apply for OPT with guidance from his Designated School Official. Just three months after applying, Bruno received his employment authorization document (EAD) and was eligible to start work in April 2020.
After proactively reaching out to the Lagoinha Boston Church, Bruno learned they needed someone with his skillset to join their creative team. Today, he helps design the church’s brochures and social media posts, and is jumping into coding projects for the website. He says there is a lot of opportunity for growth in this role. To view Bruno’s work, follow @lagoinhabostonchurch on Instagram.
Bruno says he has the opportunity to apply the knowledge he gained at CSI toward his career. “CSI gave me hands-on skills in Adobe Dreamweaver, Photoshop, HTML, and style sheets. My programs were really good because I gained an overview of what makes sense in graphic design, and a better understanding of marketing as a whole. Because every course is updated regularly, my skills are up-to-date.”
Words of Advice
Bruno is passionate about the opportunities CSI and OPT have granted him, and wants to encourage others to keep their eye on the prize. He says, “If you want to change your life like I have, you have to wake up and work hard. It really is possible.”
Learn more
Are you ready to follow in Bruno’s footsteps and receive an education that will allow you to achieve your academic and professional goals? Visit https://www.csinow.edu/, call 1-888-910-5060, or email admissions@csinow.edu to learn about our high-quality programs in Massachusetts and Illinois.
