Jerry Gonzalez Araujo is well known in Puerto Rico as a successful resort owner. There are many hotels and resorts on Puerto Rico as the island is a common tourist destination. The business Jerry Gonzalez Araujo launched, the Costa Dorada Beach Resort, is however the first timeshare resort on the Puerto Rican island, making it unique among other hotel businesses. “I couldn't have launched the Costa Dorada without my education,” says Jerry Gonzalez Araujo. “Education was the single most important factor in my success, and I feel it should be more widely accessible.

When discussing his childhood, Jerry Gonzalez Araujo refers to himself as “studious.” He cites his parents as an important influence on his school performance. “My parents taught me that school was important for success in life,” says Jerry Gonzalez Araujo. “For a lot of kids, this isn't the case.” Araujo points out that many parents don't particularly stress the importance of academic excellence for children. “Kids who aren't taught that school is important don't try,” says Jerry Gonzalez Araujo.

“In today's world, a degree isn't just about the education; it's about proving to others that you're qualified,” says Jerry Gonzalez Araujo. “The rising cost of education is cutting out smart kids and making them unable to succeed.” In his youth, Jerry Gonzalez Araujo knew that he wanted to be a businessman, but was unsure what area of business interested him. He therefore went to school for multiple business-related certifications. He earned an associate's degree in marketing. He went on to earn two additional certificates: one in management and international business, and one in sales and marketing.

“My education is what made my success in the Puerto Rican resort industry possible,” says Jerry Gonzalez Araujo. He expresses “concern” at education's increasing inaccessibility. “Education around the world should be affordable and accessible to all people who choose to pursue it. It's a human right.”

To do his part to help others in the industry, Jerry Gonzalez Araujo consults with multiple hotels to construct marketing strategies. His expertise is widely sought after.