Growing up in Honduras, Carlos Duke learned early on what it meant to live between two worlds. When his family moved to the United States while he was in 9th grade, it felt like starting life all over again. He had to balance his Honduran roots with a new culture, adjusting to traditions, expectations, and ways of living that were unfamiliar at first. “I had to understand the local traditions, expectations, tastes, and approach to life, which I guess is what people call assimilation,” he reflects.
The journey of belonging was not always easy, but it shaped the foundation of who Carlos is today. His parents instilled in him a mindset of acceptance and encouraged him to explore new perspectives. From music to friendships, his experiences in the U.S. expanded his worldview, allowing him to see the beauty of blending cultures. “Life in the USA allowed me to befriend people whose families have lived here for generations, as well as those who, like me, are ‘new Americans.’ I think it’s always been about character,” he says.
That outlook has guided Carlos in his personal and professional life. Along the way, he developed a strong belief in continuous learning. The urge to keep upskilling and refining his abilities became a constant in his career, reminding him that growth comes from curiosity and persistence.
Carrying His Roots from Honduras into Every Opportunity
Carlos often looks back at his early years in Honduras, where he saw firsthand the stark differences between those who had opportunities and those who did not. The gap between communities was visible. These experiences instilled in him a deep sense of gratitude for the life he built in the U.S.
Over the past three years, Carlos has returned to Central America as part of a medical mission that provides free operations to those in need. “This experience has reinforced the idea that life is about chances. Just as my family took a chance to move here, I hope to seize opportunities as they come in my career and personal life,” he shares.
This commitment to service and growth reflects the balance between his roots and his present, carrying forward the lessons of where he came from while investing in where he is headed.
Continuous Learning as a Philosophy
For Carlos, growth has never been accidental. It is built on the philosophy of lifelong learning. “The concept of continuous learning has been pivotal in my career. Embracing the mindset of ‘never stop learning’ has opened numerous doors for me,” he shares.
Yet, learning for Carlos is not just about acquiring knowledge. It is also about energy and intent. He believes in bringing his own drive to every task. “What has truly helped me advance is the belief that one must bring their own energy to work. This means being proactive in learning new and better ways to accomplish tasks, which not only enhances my skills but also demonstrates my dedication to the company.”
This mindset shaped his decision to take the next big step, formal training in Data Science and Generative AI.
Finding Clarity through Data Science
The decision to enroll in the Post Graduate Program in Data Science with Generative AI: Applications to Business (formerly known as the Post Graduate Program in Data Science and Business Analytics) from the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin stemmed from Carlos’s belief in lifelong learning. His proactive approach to upskilling has always driven him to look for new and better ways to contribute, both at work and beyond.
Whether it’s advancing his technical expertise through the program or supporting the medical mission in Central America that he’s been a part of, Carlos sees every learning opportunity as a chance to create impact.
Honoring Heritage, Building the Future
As part of the Hispanic community in the United States, Carlos views education as both personal growth and a way to honor his roots. His story is one of balancing cultures, seizing opportunities, and never losing sight of where he came from.
For Carlos, the Post Graduate Program in Data Science with Generative AI: Applications to Business has been more than a career move. It is a continuation of his family’s journey of taking chances, embracing change, and building a life defined by character and resilience.
“Life is about chances,” he says, “and just as my family took a chance to move here, I want to continue seizing every opportunity that comes my way.”
