Our Story
GPAthletes was founded by a team of passionate former international student-athletes dedicated to empowering the next generation to achieve their dreams. During our experiences in the U.S., we discovered a common misconception among young athletes: the belief that only the top athletes and students could study and compete at American universities. Our journey proved otherwise, showing us that these opportunities are attainable for many more students than previously believed. We realized that the path to growth and achievement is open to all who are willing to explore it.
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However, we noticed a gap in the scholarship process—one of disconnection and lack of personalization from the agencies meant to assist students. This inspired us to create GPAthletes with a vision of offering a more personalized and empathetic approach. We are committed to ensuring that students are actively involved and informed every step of the way. By focusing on building relationships and understanding each athlete's unique needs, GPAthletes sets itself apart in the market.
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Our mission is to empower as many international students as possible to explore their futures through sports and academics, opening doors to success and personal growth. We believe that by providing opportunities and support, we can help students navigate their paths and unlock their full potential.
Our team
Former international student-athletes
Our team at GPAthletes consists of former international student-athletes from around the world. With firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities, we are committed to helping you navigate your path to success with the same dedication and passion that guided our own journeys.
Lara Peco Fazanes
Founder & CEO
Lara Peco Fazanes embarked on a transformative journey from Spain to Iowa as an international student-athlete, thanks to a tennis scholarship. As a young tennis player in Spain, she faced setbacks and felt the sting of failure when her tennis career didn’t go as planned. However, she seized the opportunity to study psychology in the United States on an athletic scholarship, reigniting her passion for tennis and changing her life.
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Lara completed her bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Biology and went on to earn a Master’s in Community and Social Change from the University of Miami. During her time in the U.S., Lara discovered the profound impact of a supportive community and the joy of pursuing one's passions. A keen listener with a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, she is dedicated to creating growth opportunities for the younger generation. This experience inspired her to create GPAthletes, an organization committed to inspriring students worldwide to pursue their dreams through education and sports.
+34 608 195 214
Omar Ezzeldin
Omar, originally from Cairo, Egypt, has built an impressive career that blends his passion for sports with strong academic credentials. A dedicated athlete from age 3, he excelled in tennis and honed his skills at the prestigious Mouratoglou Tennis Academy in France.
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Omar holds a degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering, and later pursued graduate studies in business management and finance in the U.S. This diverse education, combined with his experience working in university admissions and coaching in NCAA programs, gives him a deep understanding of both sports and higher education.
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Now based in New York, Omar is a respected professor in sports studies and brings a unique perspective through his expertise in engineering, management, and finance. As a key member of GPAthletes, he is dedicated to helping students worldwide achieve their educational and athletic goals. His broad experience makes him a valuable resource for those looking to succeed both academically and athletically.
+1 913 626 7028
Our Trusted Partners
Together, we build a network of support that transforms aspirations into achievements
