Hitch Amiar, Agency Relations Manager at Marbella International University Centre (MIUC), has spent nearly a decade shaping the institution into a hub of international education. With a background rooted in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Hitch’s journey to Spain was driven by a combination of professional passion and personal destiny. “I came here as a tourist, met my wife, and decided to take the challenge of settling down in Spain,” he reflects on his life-changing move.
At MIUC, Hitch leads the recruitment, admissions, and marketing department. The university prides itself on its diverse student body, boasting representation from over 85 nationalities. “The Americans are now our number one nationality, followed by students from Scandinavian countries and other parts of Europe, as well as the Gulf region, Africa, Russia, and Southeast Asia,” Hitch explains. This diversity creates a vibrant learning environment where students gain invaluable cultural insights and global perspectives.
One of Hitch’s most significant achievements at MIUC has been the institution’s growth from a modest 16 students to a thriving community. “Our philosophy of education combines international studies in English within a personalized setting. We offer a British education in the south of Spain, with access to national and international internships,” Hitch notes. The university’s location in Marbella, a renowned tourist destination, further enhances its appeal.
However, the path hasn’t always been smooth. Hitch recalls the challenges of adapting to a new cultural and professional environment in Spain. “It took time to adjust to the local workplace culture, administration, and language barriers. But these challenges made me a better and stronger person,” he shares.
Beyond the academic sphere, MIUC is deeply involved in community engagement. The university organizes events related to charity, animal shelters, and supporting the needy. “We believe in giving back to the community. It’s about helping unconditionally and enjoying the impact you can make,” Hitch emphasizes. This commitment to social responsibility is echoed in MIUC’s motto: Learn, Live, Explore.
Looking ahead, Hitch and MIUC aim to establish the university as the premier higher education reference in the south of Spain. “We want to create an international environment where students can learn from each other’s experiences and find professional opportunities in the global job market,” Hitch explains.
When asked about his personal motto, Hitch offers a simple yet profound perspective: “We are passengers in life. It’s important to give and take, help as much as you can, and enjoy life. Efforts will be paid off.” His philosophy extends to his family, where he instills the values of hard work, resilience, and the importance of education.
In joining Sociis, Hitch saw an opportunity for collaboration and mutual growth. “Meeting Jeremy and learning about Sociis clicked naturally. There’s so much we can do together, especially in inspiring young people and making a difference in our communities,” he concludes.