The University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) this week welcomed Henry Young, Provost at New England Institute of Technology (NEIT), to campus for a special presentation to UCCI’s dual enrolment students on the partnership that has already changed many Caymanians’ lives. Young’s visit highlighted the life-changing opportunities available to Caymanian students through the established UCCI-NEIT partnership, which includes a ‘zero-expense’ stateside education and on-campus support.
One young Caymanian who is currently taking advantage of this partnership is current NEIT student Ms Marisa Wishart. Wishart’s cybersecurity studies and personal experiences in Rhode Island serve as a compelling case study for why more local students should consider taking their education abroad.
Eighteen months into the UCCI-NEIT partnership, Marisa Wishart exemplifies what Caymanian students can achieve when they combine UCCI’s strong foundational programmes with NEIT’s career-focused, hands-on degrees in technology, engineering and more.
“I first learnt about NEIT through a friend, and I’m so grateful I trusted their advice,” Marisa shares.
“Technology is evolving rapidly, and I want to stay ahead of the curve. The cybersecurity programme offers great job opportunities both during and after my studies. In the Cayman Islands, there aren’t many people in this field, so it’s an amazing chance to grow and contribute to my country’s future.”
Marisa admits the transition from the tropical warmth of the Cayman Islands to New England winters was an adjustment, but she says the opportunities, plus NEIT’s inclusive community, far outweigh any challenges.
“If you’re up for a challenge and want to fast-track your education, NEIT is the place to be. The change of seasons is something you won’t experience in the Cayman Islands, and the school offers a close-knit environment where you’ll get all the support you need. It’s not a huge school, so you can stay focused and on track to succeed.”
Looking ahead, Marisa plans to use her cybersecurity expertise to bolster tech innovation in the Cayman Islands, proving that an education abroad can directly contribute to the country’s future growth.
Launched 18 months ago, the partnership between UCCI and NEIT has created a seamless pathway for Caymanian students to advance from UCCI’s certificate and degree programmes into NEIT’s rigorous bachelor’s or master’s degree tracks. The partnership is also open to other young Caymanians.
Key features include:
• Zero-Expense Opportunity: Cayman Islands Government scholarships are supplemented by NEIT’s generous top-up (valued up to $10,000 USD per year), designed to fully cover tuition, on-campus housing, and essential living expenses.
• Hands-On, Career-Focused Degrees: NEIT’s programmes in Cybersecurity, Network Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Construction Management, and more provide students with practical, job-ready skills.
• Ongoing Personal Support: Recognising the social and emotional challenges of studying abroad, NEIT provides structured on-campus support, creating a home-away-from-home for Caymanian students.
“This is more than just a study abroad programme; it’s a life-transforming experience,” says Dr Robert W. Robertson, President and CEO of UCCI.
“We started this partnership to ensure that our students can pursue in-demand careers in the technology and trades sectors without incurring prohibitive living costs. Eighteen months on, we’re thrilled to see students like Marisa thriving. We urge more Caymanians to follow her lead.”
During his presentation at UCCI this week, Henry Young provided firsthand insights into NEIT’s accelerated, practical learning model and the campus life awaiting Caymanian students. He also underscored NEIT’s commitment to expanding the scholarship initiative so more students can join in upcoming semesters.
“We’ve seen remarkable success from our Caymanian cohorts so far,” said Henry Young, Provost at NEIT.
“When students arrive, we make sure they have the academic guidance, career services, and personal support needed to excel. With every new student, we continue to strengthen the bond between NEIT and UCCI, and we’re ready for the next generation of Caymanian talent.”
NEIT’s programmes are designed to equip students with up to date, in-demand skills in engineering, IT, cybersecurity, construction management, and beyond.
Students who qualify for Cayman Islands Government scholarships have the rest of their expenses, up to $10,000 USD annually, covered through NEIT’s top-up, effectively eliminating the cost hurdle of studying in the United States.
Following Henry Young’s presentation, UCCI is now fielding enquiries from local students eager to begin their own NEIT journeys. Interested individuals can visit www.neit.edu/international
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