Eighteen Florida State University students will be studying abroad this summer and school year through the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.

The Gilman Scholarship provides undergraduate students with high financial need the opportunity to study or intern in a foreign country. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the scholarship gives students the chance to become global citizens and active participants in their international community while gaining critical thinking and cultural awareness.

Chelsea James, a junior majoring in social science education with a minor in child development, will participate in the Broad Curriculum Program at the FSU London Study Centre through FSU International Programs. The Broad Curriculum Program includes FSU courses that satisfy requirements for graduation, CoreFSU and some majors or minors while living abroad.

After graduation next year, she plans to pursue a career in school leadership and hopes to expand student opportunities and transform the education landscape.

“I am excited to go to London because it will allow me to experience a diverse global culture firsthand while gaining new perspectives that will shape my growth as a future educator and leader,” James said.

Lana Abboud, a sophomore majoring in international affairs with a minor in economics, will participate in the Intensive French program in Paris through FSU International Programs. Students are placed in a language course based on their level of understanding and are taught entirely in French by native French-speaking faculty.

“This experience will strengthen my ability to engage across cultures and operate in international settings, while building the communication skills essential for diplomacy and global policy work,” Abboud said.

After graduation next fall, Abboud hopes to attend law school or pursue a career as a U.S. diplomat. She is interested in the intersection of international law and foreign policy and how they drive global corporations.

Niki Navarro Gutierrez, a junior majoring in digital media production and minoring in Italian and film, will attend the University of Foreigners of Perugia in Umbria, Italy, through FSU Global Exchanges.

“I am extremely interested in the appreciation that Italy, and Europe as a whole, has for film and the resources that are put into it,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez has a passion for creating documentaries or fiction films that tell a story about the culture they portray. She says she will benefit from traveling abroad and learning from diverse communities.

“Ultimately, I hope to return from Perugia not only with greater fluency in Italian, but also with the personal insight and professional skills to pursue documentary filmmaking on an international scale,” Gutierrez said.

Giselle Martinez, a junior majoring in biological science, will participate in FSU’s Biology in London program with FSU International Programs. Martinez will take two courses: Walking in Van Leeuwenhoek’s Shoes: Rediscovering Cell Biology, where students recreate classical experiments that shaped understanding of the cell, and Investigating Questions in Animal Behavior, which examines how development, genetics, and physiology shape behaviors like communication, aggression and sociality.

After graduation next year, Martinez plans to continue studying medicine as a women’s health researcher focusing on endometriosis and other women’s health concerns.

“I want to contribute to the under-researched and underrepresented areas of medicine in which many women find themselves struggling,” Martinez said.

Zorianna Starks, a junior majoring in psychology and minoring in social welfare, will study abroad in London and Amsterdam this summer through the Council on International Educational Exchange’s (CIEE) Comparative Public Health Systems program.

She plans to explore how cultural, social and economic factors influence the delivery of care and access to mental and public health.

“This experience will allow me to expand my perspective on mental health and public health systems while learning how different cultures address challenges in care and accessibility,” Starks said.

Starks also received funding through the Global Scholars Program, run by the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement, and the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement to support her study abroad experience.

“As someone pursuing a career in psychology and social work, it is important for me to understand diverse populations so I can better support and advocate for individuals from all backgrounds,” Starks said.

She plans to pursue a career as a child therapist, focusing on supporting underserved communities and addressing mental health disparities. Starks hopes this experience will strengthen her cultural awareness and provide insight that will help her make a meaningful impact in both clinical and community-based settings.

Silvia Rodriguez, a freshman majoring in economics, will participate in the Oxford University Consortium on Human Rights and New Technology in England with the FSU Honors Program.

During the consortium, she will present her findings about the impacts of artificial intelligence on the Florida criminal justice system. Her research focuses on predictive policing, sentencing algorithms and AI-driven immigration enforcement, and analyzing whether these technologies reinforce social biases in an international setting.

“Through the consortium, I will conduct interdisciplinary research on the ethical and legal implications of AI in the justice system and explore how policy can better protect civil rights in the digital age,” Rodriguez said.

After graduating from FSU, Rodriguez plans to attend law school.

Nashley Gabriel Cardenas, a junior majoring in accounting and minoring in criminology, will study abroad this summer in Strasbourg, France, through FSU Global Exchanges with a focus on business.

“This summer, I am looking forward to expanding my horizons and networking with students of different backgrounds,” Cardenas said. “Going abroad will give me the opportunity to understand how Europe approaches sustainability within business organizations with methods that I could apply to my business career.”

She is most excited to create new connections and to make her own path while being exposed to different cultures, branching out of her comfort zone in a new place.

“I never thought I would leave the U.S. during my time studying, and this means I have the power to create my own experiences and learn how to overcome impostor syndrome,” Cardenas said.

Madison Mager, a senior biological science major pursuing veterinary medicine, will intern this summer in Costa Rica through Loop Abroad, an educational veterinary service organization. She will work at the Toucan Rescue Ranch in San José, the country’s capital, to learn how another culture engages in animal care.

“I’m especially excited to learn from a completely different veterinary environment and gain new perspectives on wildlife care and conservation medicine,” Mager said. “I’m also looking forward to meeting new people, hearing their stories and experiencing another culture firsthand.”

After graduation, Mager plans to attend veterinary school and pursue exotic veterinary and conservation medicine.

Sophia Castro, a sophomore majoring in public health, will participate in the Broad Curriculum Program at the Valencia Study Center in Spain through FSU International Programs.

“Studying abroad in Valencia will challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone and engage with new cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking,” Castro said. “This experience will help me develop the cultural awareness and adaptability needed to better serve diverse communities and become a more well-rounded and compassionate provider.”

After graduation, Castro hopes to earn a master’s degree in nursing with a long-term career plan of owning a medical spa.

Lizzie Alba, a freshman pursuing a dual degree in psychology and human development and family sciences, will intern abroad in Madrid, this summer with the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS). She will work with the nonprofit organization YMCA to support parents and children in the community. She also received funding through FSU’s Global Scholars Program.

“As someone who aspires to become a marriage and family therapist, these interactions with both parents and children will provide me with valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the field,” Alba said. “Through this experience, I hope to become even more culturally sensitive.”

Alba is excited about the opportunity to work with families in a new environment and learn about the cultural implications that come with a new domain.

Brianna Zapata, a junior majoring in environment and society and interdisciplinary social sciences, will participate in a language-intensive program in São Paulo, Brazil, this summer through the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE).

“During the program, I will be studying topics related to urban sustainability, culture and global perspectives while gaining immersive international experience through coursework and community engagement,” Zapata said.

Zapata also earned a Critical Need Language Award, a supplemental scholarship offered through the Gilman Program. After graduation, she plans to focus on sustainability and conservation and how they impact underserved communities.

To learn more about the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship, students can email FSU’s Office of National Fellowships for an advising appointment. For more information about International Programs, visit international.fsu.edu. To learn more about Global Exchanges, visit cge.fsu.edu/global-programs.

This year’s Gilman Scholarship recipients, their destinations and majors are:

Yecenia Padron; Panama; Human Development and Family Sciences

Lana Abboud; France; International Affairs

Mya Ncastanedo; Spain; Media and Communication Studies

Nicole Navarro Gutiérrez; Italy; Digital Media Production

Chelsea James; United Kingdom; Social Science Education

Brianna Zapata; Brazil; Environment and Society and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences

Zorianna Starks; United Kingdom and the Netherlands; Psychology

Lizzie Alba; Spain; Psychology and Human Development and Family Sciences

Giselle Martinez; United Kingdom; Biological Science

Yemaya Adams; South Korea; Information Technology

Silvia Rodriguez; United Kingdom; Economics

Nashely Gabriel Cardenas; France; Accounting

Sacha Chiche Gallardo; France; Behavioral Neuroscience

Madison Northcutt; United Kingdom; Communication Science & Disorders

Sophia Castro; Spain; Public Health

Madison Mager; Costa Rica; Biological Science

Gianna Spadafino; Thailand; Communication and Public Relations

Adwoa Birago Nsiah Ababio; Spain; Food Science and Nutrition

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Florida State University has appointed Austin McDonald as assistant dean of Undergraduate Studies and the new director of the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE), which serves first-generation undergraduate students and others who may face challenges in college such as economic or educational circumstances.

McDonald has served as program director in CARE since 2023, including as the faculty director for First-Generation Noles Living-Learning Community (FGEN-Noles LLC), a first-year residence hall community for first-generation students.

Dean of Undergraduate Studies DeOnte Brown, who previously served as director of CARE, said McDonald was appointed for his student-centered approach and innovative spirit.

“Dr. McDonald’s genuine and humble personality allows him to develop rapport with colleagues and students in a way that shows value for everyone,” Brown said. “I have appreciated his intentional engagement with students to support them in maximizing the opportunities in college and also in challenging them to exceed their own expectations. He has also shown a commitment to our staff and faculty in CARE by supporting and encouraging them to engage in research and assessment work or offering professional learning moments.”

The CARE director and assistant dean role works with both Undergraduate Studies and Student Affairs divisions. Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Brandon Bowden said he is excited to work with McDonald.

“We have full confidence in and commitment to Dr. McDonald’s success,” Bowden said. “His previous work in other Student Affairs divisions and his current engagement in our programs will only help to amplify our student services and support not only for CARE students, but so many students beyond CARE.”

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Florida State University celebrated some of its most resilient students at an annual banquet for students who come to FSU after experiencing homelessness, foster care, relative care or ward of the state status. 

The Unconquered Scholars Program Awareness Banquet honored graduating seniors and other students from the Unconquered Scholars Program, a part of FSU’s Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), on March 30 at the FSU Student Union Ballrooms.  

“Our mission is to provide students with guidance, mentorship, advocacy, security and a voice to ensure they can achieve academic success and long-term independence,” said Shannon Shannon, assistant director of student development in CARE. “Tonight we celebrate not only our graduating class, but every Unconquered Scholar who is one step closer to their degree.”  

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Three FSU leaders who were the first in their families to attend college — Board of Trustees Chairman Peter Collins, President Richard McCullough and Head Football Coach Mike Norvell — shared their inspiring journeys of resilience and achievement, encouraging current first-generation students to pursue their dreams during Florida State University’s third annual Horizons Unlimited Conference on Tuesday, March 3.

Led by FSU First Lady Jai Vartikar, the conference brought together first-generation students, alumni and university leaders for a day of personal stories and practical guidance aimed at helping students succeed in college and beyond.

Participants attended sessions on topics such as overcoming adversity, building a professional brand and reflecting on personal journeys, while also connecting with fellow first-generation students, faculty and mentors.

“I believe in you, Florida State University believes in you,” Vartikar said. “But most importantly, you have to believe in yourself. So, believe that you belong here and in every room that you want to be in. Your voice matters. Your horizons are unlimited and we can’t wait to see what you become.”

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Florida State University has retained first-year students from their fall to spring semester at a record 99.2% rate, one of the highest in the country, and a testament to the school’s commitment to undergraduate student success.

First-semester retention measures the number of students who stay enrolled at the university from their first fall semester to spring semester. During the 2025-2026 academic year, 6,425 entered as first-year students and 6,374 stayed enrolled for the spring.

“We’re proud to sustain nationally recognized graduation and retention rates and to have a new university record with a 99.2% fall-to-spring retention,” said FSU President Richard McCullough. “These outcomes reflect the holistic support and engagement we provide students, helping them feel at home at FSU and succeed in an academically invigorating environment.”

FSU broke a record in first-semester retention during the 2022-2023 academic year, reaching 99% for the first time. FSU’s investments in student success continue to result in record-breaking retention and graduation rates.

The university recently established the new Student Academic Success division, appointing former Dean of Undergraduate Studies Joe O’Shea as its new vice president. He leads the university’s comprehensive efforts to recruit, retain and graduate an accomplished student body.

“Across our university, we are collaborating and thinking strategically about how to deliver a rewarding college experience to our students,” said O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “Our fall-to-spring retention rates show that we take our commitment seriously to give all students from all backgrounds a world-class education at FSU and to set them up for success right away.”

In Fall 2025, FSU achieved its highest-ever 97% overall retention rate, which calculates how many first-year students stay enrolled from their first to second fall semesters. That number landed FSU No. 4 nationally among public universities. The most recently recorded national average retention rate from first to second fall was 82%, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

“Our fall-to-spring retention rates show that we take our commitment seriously to give all students from all backgrounds a world-class education at FSU and to set them up for success right away.” 

– Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success

Earlier this year, the university also reached a four-year graduation rate record at 78%, placing FSU No. 9 nationally among public universities.

“Fall-to-spring retention rates offer insight into a uniquely important chapter in a student’s life,” said DeOnte Brown, dean of Undergraduate Studies and acting director of the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE). “The fact that so many of our students who complete their first semester return to school after winter break shows that they are finding community, connecting with their professors, and accessing the resources that help them succeed. We’re proud of the work we do to help students feel at home from Day 1.”

FSU ranks No. 1 for Best First-Year Experiences among public institutions in Florida in U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges 2026” guidebook, a testament to the university’s exceptional support programs that drive student success and foster positive learning outcomes.

FSU runs an Office of Retention, which supports undergraduate students by helping them stay on track toward earning their degrees. It offers first‑year college transition and engagement programs, helping students overcome course registration challenges and connecting directly with students to offer additional guidance or resources.

Through the Office of Retention, the Engage 100 program manages first-year courses that introduce students to campus resources, academic skills and university life. Noles Everywhere connects students from out of state to peer leaders who help build support networks both on and off campus. The office also leads programs to support students who are repeating courses and campaigns that encourage timely graduation by promoting balanced course loads.

“Our mission is to ensure every undergraduate student feels supported as they navigate their academic journey, especially during the first year,” said Allison Peters, assistant dean of retention and academic engagement. “From innovative engagement programs to personalized outreach, we strive to help students build strong connections, effectively utilize university resources, and engage in meaningful educational activities.”

Recent investments in undergraduate student success have powered growth in the University Honors Program and Presidential Scholars Program, which serve high-achieving students with signature interdisciplinary courses, specialized advising, and dedicated housing, classroom and study space. The Honors Program was recently named No. 1 in the state of Florida.

FSU’s CARE for first-generation and Pell Grant-eligible students has grown to support nearly all students who qualify with funding, advising, mentoring, life coaching, study spaces and enrichment programming.

FSU offers 11 living-learning communities for first-year students, which allow students to live on campus with peers who share similar interests. FSU has earned the No. 1 spot among public schools in Florida on U.S. News & World Report’s Learning Communities list in the publication’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings.

The university operates the Advising First network of academic advising and guidance for students before they are admitted into their majors. Advising First runs specialized programs that include College Life Coaching, the Center for Academic Guidance and advising for students in the Exploratory major.

For more information about FSU’s Division of Student Academic Success, visit academicsuccess.fsu.edu.

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Florida State University will celebrate the achievements of its newest alumni Friday as the fall 2025 semester draws to a close. FSU will award 2,982 degrees, and more than 2,000 graduates are expected to participate in commencement ceremonies. 

The ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 12, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. President Richard McCullough will preside over all three events: a doctoral hooding ceremony at 9 a.m., followed by ceremonies for bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degree recipients at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

Featured speakers include Florida State Rep. Lawrence McClure and retired FSU head men’s basketball coach Leonard Hamilton. 

FSU’s fall graduates are putting their education to work in fields from health care to the arts. The students featured here have strengthened the university through their research, service and leadership and are ready to do the same beyond FSU. 

Lagos, Nigeria native Bolade Olateju is on the verge of reaching another personal milestone as he earns his doctorate in exercise physiology with the FSU Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Science. 

Following graduation, he plans to continue his work in biomedical research with a focus on preclinical and translation studies aimed at cardiovascular and metabolic health. Olateju values the significant work he has accomplished while mentoring his students at FSU. 

“During my time at FSU, I have been fortunate to build a diverse and impactful record of academic research and leadership accomplishments,” Olateju said. “I have trained and mentored numerous students, supported multiple federally funded research projects, and contributed to several publications focused on sarcospan, cardiac remodeling and cardiometabolic disease.” 

Olateju chose FSU’s Exercise Physiology Ph.D. program “because of its strong reputation in integrative human physiology and translational research.” Searching for a program that would accelerate his research — particularly in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases — Olateju is thankful for the challenge FSU provided. 

“I wanted a program that would challenge me, support my growth as a scientist and allow me to conduct meaningful research,” Olateju added. “FSU provided exactly that.” 

Jocelyn Muñiz, a graduating Master of Public Health (MPH) student, was recently promoted to program administrator of the Public Health Dental Program at the Florida Department of Health. 

The Public Health Dental Program guides the Florida Department of Health’s initiatives to strengthen and protect oral health across the state. The program has an incredible impact across Florida, managing statewide dental health data, setting policy priorities, supporting education and prevention programs and providing direct dental services.  

As the program administrator, Muñiz oversees dental health plans to increase access to oral health services, promote preventive care and improve outcomes across diverse communities.  

“Working at the Florida Department of Health, I already feel like I apply my education to my job,” Muñiz said. “Being a public health major really helped me understand the inner workings of policy and the reasons that health and health-related issues are in the state that they are. Knowing the system and its influencing factors impacted my desire to make a change from within.” 

Muñiz is a Tallahassee native and earned her bachelor’s degree in public health from FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy (COSSPP) in 2023. Muñiz credits her time at COSSPP with helping her build the strong professional network that opened doors and propelled her toward her dream career.  

When asked what aspect of FSU has left a lasting impact on her, Muñiz said, “Dr. (Deanna) Barath has had the biggest influence on me as a student and as an individual in the field of public health. Not only does she give me feedback on my classwork, but she also provides guidance on my professional career, helping me build my résumé, serving as a reference, and offering insight into the public health system and how it functions.” 

Joanna Chowdhury, a graduating Master of Public Health (MPH) student and two-time COSSPP alumna, was named Northwest Regional Health Manager for Special Olympics Florida. 

In this position, Chowdhury works closely with clinicians and students, training them to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role is hands-on and collaborative, supporting work with volunteers for health education classes at partnered community facilities and coordinating noninvasive health screenings at sporting events and partner sites. 

“What makes this role so special is that I get to do something I absolutely love, bridging the clinical side of health care with public health in a way that genuinely makes a difference,” Chowdhury said.  

Chowdhury chose to attend FSU because of the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), which provides first-generation students with academic preparation and support through programming and advising to face challenges due to educational or economic circumstances.  

“It was the deciding factor for me, and looking back, it completely shaped the trajectory of my education and career,” Chowdhury said. “CARE gave me access to resources I didn’t even realize I needed to be successful in college: life coaching, case management, university housing and a support system that showed up for me consistently.” 

Through CARE, Chowdhury learned about COSSPP’s Combined Pathways program, which allowed her to blend two of her interests — public health and social sciences — while saving time and money. The pathway helped her transition from her dual bachelor’s degrees (B.S. Public Health and Interdisciplinary Social Science) into the MPH program, giving her a clear direction toward the field she now works in.  

Chowdhury’s dual degree shapes her understanding of both fields. Taking courses such as urban and regional planning and public administration influenced her perspective on policies that impact health care. “It taught me to view public health as a connected system where history, policy and environment all shape outcomes,” Chowdhury said.  

The support from FSU aided her academic and personal development. One professor, specifically, Ladanya Ramirez Surmeier, made a lasting impact during Chowdhury’s most difficult moments. After the death of her father, Ramirez Surmeier encouraged her to seek mental health support. 

“She reminded me that I could not advocate for others if I was not willing to advocate for myself,” Chowdhury said. “Her advice became the missing piece in my healing.” 

Chowdhury is and has been involved in several organizations and programs, including Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., CARE, FSU University Housing and the Master of Public Health Student Association. These organizations provided her with community, mentorship, friendships and opportunities for professional development. 

After graduation Chowdhury hopes to continue advancing health equity and mentoring future public health professionals.  

Jada Llerena, of Stuart, Florida, is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She credits the FSU community and curriculum with strengthening her commitment to service and equipping her with the confidence to succeed. 

During her time at the College of Nursing, Llerena researched GABA migration in the developing brain after nicotine exposure. However, one of her most meaningful experiences was serving as an ACE Learning Tutor. 

“FSU taught me that knowledge is most powerful when it is shared, a lesson that continues to guide me as both a student and a future nurse,” she said. 

Llerena also notes that the faculty played an instrumental role in her development by challenging and supporting her growth. After graduation, she will begin her career at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. She will work in the Neuro and Vascular Intensive Care Unit at the Level 1 trauma center, where she hopes to mentor other nurses and continue the cycle of guidance she found at FSU. 

Max Allen, of Cocoa Beach, Florida, is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from the School of Theatre, with a dual track in performance and directing. Drawn to FSU for its renowned arts programs and the ability to utilize the Bright Futures Scholarship, Allen said the campus environment was a major draw. 

“I’d known FSU for a long time. It has very strong arts programs with a lot of supportive faculty, and I’m really glad I made the decision,” Allen said. 

Allen’s undergraduate career was defined by high-level research. Through the IDEA Grant and the Honors in the Major program, he developed projects and attended graduate-level seminars, opportunities rarely afforded to undergraduates. He credits mentors such as Kris Salata, chair of the School of Theatre, and Assistant Professor Sarah Fahmy for guiding his journey. 

Allen plans to pursue a doctorate in theater to continue his work as a director, performer and scholar.

Mckenzie Simon, of Broward County, Florida, has made a lasting impact on campus through extensive service and leadership. A member of the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) program, Simon served as a Summer Bridge Ambassador, supporting first-generation college students during their transition to campus life. 

Simon also served as an ambassador for the College of Nursing and a “Take Stock in College” student ambassador, mentoring students across Florida. 

“Obstacles aren’t stop signs, they’re invitations to push harder,” Simon said. 

Beyond his ambassador roles, Simon gained clinical experience as a nurse extern at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. He was also a featured speaker at the Horizons Unlimited Conference, where he offered advice to incoming nursing students. 

After graduation, Simon will join the Cardiac Surgery ICU at HCA Florida Capital Hospital. He plans to gain critical care experience before pursuing certification as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. 

At just 19 years old, Nicolas Monteagudo is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 

Monteagudo’s time at FSU was marked by academic distinction and advocacy. He was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi — becoming one of only two nursing students in his cohort selected for the nation’s oldest collegiate honor society, and Sigma Theta Tau, the International Nursing Honor Society. 

Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), Monteagudo worked with James Whyte, director of the Ph.D. in Nursing Science program, to investigate HIV-related stigma. As a Hispanic student, he found particular meaning in his work with the Florida-Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and contributed to initiatives that increase underrepresented minority students in STEM. 

He also conducted policy analysis for the Florida Department of Management Services regarding health care costs and advocated for cancer research funding. 

“Graduating at 19 has taught me that there is no ‘perfect’ timeline for success,” Monteagudo said. “If there is one piece of advice I can impart, it is this: dreams without action become anxiety. When you think of your dreams, I hope you sing with rapture and dance like a dervish, fearlessly, freely and without hesitation.” 

Monteagudo plans to become a nurse practitioner and pursue a doctorate in nursing, following in his mother’s footsteps. 

When Olivia DeForest started at FSU in 2022, she wasn’t certain which direction to take. Fortunately, her strong math abilities and interest in practical applications led her to choose finance as her major. 

“I knew that I had a passion for making money, and that was about it,” DeForest said. “I honestly picked finance because I knew that I was much more of a math person. When I initially started taking my classes, I found myself really interested in the material.” 

This month, she receives her Bachelor of Science in Finance after thriving as a student at FSU’s College of Business. DeForest took a demanding courseload, worked multiple jobs, paid her way through school and was involved in Kappa Delta Sorority, Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity and Dance Marathon. 

Her biggest obstacle at FSU also became the turning point for her career ambitions. After her sophomore year, she applied for an internship at financial services company Raymond James but was rejected. She used the rejection as motivation and landed a finance and accounting internship with the company the next year and later secured a full-time position 

“I was heartbroken,” DeForest said about the initial rejection. “I kind of took that as ‘Okay, I can either completely redirect or use this as my motivation and go get it next summer.” 

In January 2026, her new position awaits her as one of Raymond James’ corporate banking credit associates. “From my first day of freshman year, my reason for attending FSU has been to get an education, secure a job and eventually excel in my career,” DeForest said. “It’s really cool to say in four years here, I did exactly what I wanted to do.” 

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With a rich history of supporting learning and scholarship in programs around the world, Florida State University has earned top rankings in multiple categories in a new report from the Institute of International Education (IIE). 

FSU is ranked No. 1 among public universities and No. 4 overall for long-term study abroad enrollments in the IIE Open Doors 2025 Report, with 170 students studying abroad for eight weeks or more during the 2023-2024 academic year. FSU also ranked No. 10 among public universities and No. 12 overall for the total number of students studying abroad, with 2,702 students participating in programs in the 2023-2024 academic year.  

“Florida State University’s strong performance in the Open Doors report is continuous and reflects our deep commitment to global engagement and experiential learning,” said Steve McDowell, assistant provost for International Initiatives and interim dean of The Graduate School. “Long-term study abroad experiences provide transformative opportunities for students to immerse themselves in different cultures, broaden their perspectives, and develop skills that prepare them for success in an interconnected world.” 

Open Doors has long been regarded as the comprehensive information resource on international students and scholars in the United States and on U.S. students studying abroad. It is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by IIE.  

The top three leading destinations for study abroad were identified in the report as Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. FSU’s International Programs maintains a year-round presence in all three countries with study centers in Florence, Valencia and London. FSU also has a branch campus in the Republic of Panama in Panama City. 

Other study abroad opportunities offered by FSU International Programs include programs in Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Kosovo, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Romania and Switzerland. This summer, International Programs is partnering for the first time with the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) to administer the CARE Global Learning Community Internship. The program is part of an initiative by FSU First Lady Jai Vartikar to help make transformative experiential learning opportunities available to more students. With support from Dr. Jai’s First-Gen Explorer’s Fund, first-generation students from CARE will travel to Durban, South Africa, to participate in full-time internships with local organizations and institutions as well as group excursions and language study.    

“Our programs are designed to give students meaningful, hands-on experiences that go beyond the classroom,” said Louisa Blenman, executive director of International Programs. “These opportunities help students grow academically and personally while building lifelong connections across the globe.” 

In addition to opportunities at International Programs, FSU students can also participate in Global Exchanges. Administered through the Center for Global Engagement, FSU’s Global Exchanges provides students the opportunity to attend a university abroad as an exchange student while earning credit and paying FSU tuition and fees. FSU has partnerships with more than 40 universities in 20 countries around the globe. Locations include Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Spain and the United Kingdom. 

For more information about study abroad opportunities through International Programs, visit international.fsu.edu. To learn more about FSU’s Global Exchanges, visit cge.fsu.edu/fsu-global-exchange-programs.   

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Florida State University is ramping up its efforts to help first-generation college students participate in study abroad programs, offering new resources and targeted support. These initiatives coincide with the university’s annual Celebration of International Education and its participation in the national First-Generation College Celebration Nov. 5-12. 

A centerpiece of this expansion is the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement’s (CARE) new Global Learning Community, a cohort-based program launching in Summer 2026.  

Led by instructional specialist Emily Leyava, the program will send 10 CARE students to South Africa for eight weeks of internships, Zulu language classes and cultural immersion. The initiative is designed to lower barriers for first-generation students, who often face financial and informational hurdles when considering international experiences. 

“We will be working with financial aid to see what opportunities are available to our students, including experiential learning grants and private donations,” said Leyava, who will accompany the group as faculty leader. “We don’t want cost to be prohibitive.”  

The program includes a preparatory spring course on global citizenship and international higher education, followed by an immersive summer experience. Students will be matched with internships in sectors like public health, community development and education, and will participate in weekly debriefs, reflective journaling and excursions outside of their home base in the coastal city of Durban. 

“We want our students graduating, going into the job market, going to grad school, whatever they want to do,” Leyava said. “We want to offer them every opportunity possible.” 

The Global Learning Community is coordinated with and supported by FSU International Programs, which operates three study centers in London, Valencia and Florence, a regional branch campus in the Republic of Panama, and faculty-led programs in places such as Croatia, Costa Rica, France, Switzerland, and more.   

“We understand the importance of providing intentional and creative ways to support first-gen students who wish to have an international experience,” said Interim Director of International Programs Louisa Blenman. “We are so pleased that our first partnership with CARE helps us diversify the locations offered by International Programs. Further, this partnership is a vivid demonstration of a transformative program coming to fruition through collaborations among several divisions of the university.” 

Funding opportunities such as the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, the Tyler Center for Global Studies Fellowship, Dr. Jai’s First-Gen Explorers Fund from FSU First Lady Jai Vartikar, FSU International Programs scholarships and other resources — both across FSU’s campus and externally — can help first-generation students defray costs associated with studying abroad.

Yasmeen Masanti, a senior dance student, studied in Paris through FSU’s Dance in Paris summer program, a four-week immersive experience for dance majors. She said scholarships, including a Gilman Scholarship, made her trip possible. 

“Having the opportunity to dance in Paris and seeing the French culture was a completely different experience than I’ve ever had,” she said. 

Masanti spent her time taking dance and film classes, exploring the city, attending performances and living at Cité Universitaire, a student housing complex bustling with international students.  

“I went to the Eiffel Tower quite a lot because as a kid, I always dreamed about seeing the Eiffel Tower,” she said. “It was just so magical.” 

Masanti credits the CARE Summer Bridge Program for helping her adjust to college and find a community. “I don’t know if I would have still been at FSU if I hadn’t been in the CARE program,” she said. 

Tafari D’Aguilar, a mechanical engineering student and Presidential Scholar, attended John Cabot University in Rome, partially funded by the Gilman Scholarship.  

“Before FSU, I didn’t know what studying abroad meant. I couldn’t imagine affording it,” D’Aguilar said. “It was a culture shock at first. It was my first time out of the country, and I was alone.” 

But he quickly settled in, befriending his roommates and balancing rigorous engineering courses with adventures across the city and broader Italy. 

“We walked cobblestone roads, ate local food and traveled,” D’Aguilar said. “We visited the Pantheon, Vatican City and Milan. One highlight: I canoed in a volcanic crater. It was incredible.” 

The experience, he said, was empowering: “Before, I feared traveling alone, but now I know I can handle it. Once you know you can handle it, there’s no stopping you.” 

FSU’s Celebration of International Education runs through Dec. 5. 

For more information about how Florida State University supports first-generation students and available resources, visit firstgen.fsu.edu.

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Florida State University is recognizing first-generation student veteran college students as part of Veterans Day, Nov. 11, and First-Generation College Celebration Week, a nationwide event that FSU is celebrating through Nov.12.

“Our veteran students bring a remarkable depth of experience and resilience to Florida State University,” said Billy Francis, director of the Student Veterans Center. “Some are also the first in their families to pursue a college degree, and that unique journey shapes both their perspective and the campus community. The Student Veterans Center is committed to providing tailored support and resources to help these students thrive academically and personally.”

Since 2011, the FSU Student Veterans Center has offered academic advising, transition support and assistance with VA benefits, creating a welcoming environment for military-affiliated students.

Around 25% of FSU’s undergraduate student body identifies as first-generation, meaning their parents or guardians did not attend a four-year college.

FSU’s nationally recognized Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) provides first-generation student veterans with preparation, mentoring, financial aid guidance and academic support to help them succeed.

Sgt. Aryanna Fortuna, 24, will graduate in December with a degree in public health and a minor in psychology. The Fort Myers native is both a first-generation college student and a first-generation military member.

“I always dreamt of going to college, and my family knew I had the potential to be the first,” she said.

After enrolling in ROTC in high school, Fortuna joined the Florida Army National Guard in 2019. She deployed to Ukraine in 2021 for nine months as a combat medic, providing emergency care for about 140 soldiers.

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Snailey Dol, an information technology student, holds several leadership positions and has earned multiple internships during his time at Florida State University.

Dol is a first-generation student within FSU’s Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE). The community and support he found in CARE inspired him to pursue many rewarding experiences and recognitions.

Dol is the incoming Black Student Union (BSU) president, social and events chair of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., a Sean Pittman Award Winner, a 2025 Torchbearer 100 inductee and a Garnet and Gold Key honor society initiate.

In 2024, Dol led his fraternity to create a toy drive for the Boys Town nonprofit. He coordinated publicity and gathered donations for the holiday event. He collected two carloads of toys, making a difference in his local community for children in need of holiday spirit.

Through the BSU, Dol helps raise funds for and administers the Bobby E. Leach Scholarship to three students who make significant contributions to the local community.

Dol has worked his way through many internships in the data and software engineering fields, interning at FSU and with companies such as Wells Fargo, Capital One and Nordstrom.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I chose to attend FSU because of the CARE program and the people I met through it. As a first-generation student, I always feared that college was not meant for me; I thought I would not fit in or even be accepted anywhere. I did not have many people in my life who had made it to FSU or even to college.

However, I met a faculty member from CARE who told me about the department and how it was designed to help first-generation students like me, who are unsure about college and need a strong support system. After that conversation, I started researching different schools I might be interested in, but none of them offered the sense of community that FSU did. FSU made me feel like I belonged.

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

My most significant academic accomplishment while at FSU is landing an internship at Wells Fargo as a software engineering intern. One of my biggest goals during my time at FSU was to take full advantage of every resource and opportunity available to me. I made sure not only to attend class and learn, but also to seek out ways to grow and develop outside of the classroom.

That meant going to the Career Center every semester, consistently applying for tech roles through InternFSU, using free tutoring services and attending every networking mixer I could.

Through that mindset and effort, I was able to land roles in software engineering and data analysis at companies like Discover and Nordstrom. Most recently, I interned at Wells Fargo for the summer of 2025. I know that everything I have learned at FSU has helped me succeed in this role.

How do you serve the community?

Within my fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, one of my biggest goals is to make a direct impact on our community. This includes a wide range of service initiatives and events, such as volunteering at homeless shelters, senior living homes, Boys Town and more. One of the main ways we give back is by visiting schools around the Tallahassee area. At these schools, we engage with students through various activities like playing games, reading books or performing dances.

My most significant community service experience within my fraternity would be the toy drive I helped spearhead for the nonprofit Boys Town, a foster home for children in need. This experience was especially meaningful to me because, years ago, I was one of those kids attending toy drives hoping to receive a free toy. I remember how much it meant to me, and I hope this effort brought that same joy to those children.

While being involved in the BSU, I have had the opportunity to help organize multiple events, but one of my favorites is definitely the Afro Funk Fest. During the festival, we invite up-and-coming artists from FSU and the Tallahassee area to perform and showcase their talent. We also feature small businesses, giving them a platform to present their products and gain exposure within the FSU community. It is fulfilling to create a space that not only entertains but also uplifts and supports local talent and entrepreneurship.

Through the BSU, the most significant leadership experience I worked on as a previous director was the Bobby E. Leach Scholarship. This project is important to me because awarding a scholarship that can genuinely change someone’s life is deeply fulfilling, especially after hearing the powerful, often unheard stories of the recipients’ contributions. It is a project I give my all to every year because I truly believe efforts like this can make a real difference in someone’s life.

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Florida State University is hosting a weeklong series of events for First-Generation College Celebration (FGEN) week from Wednesday, Nov. 5, through Wednesday, Nov. 12. Created in 2017 by the Council for Opportunity in Education and FirstGen Forward (formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success), the celebration recognizes students, faculty and staff who are the first in their families to earn a college degree.

The Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), which is part of the Division of Student Affairs and the Division of Undergraduate Studies, has partnered with multiple departments to organize events that honor and empower first-generation students.

As a cornerstone event of FSU FGEN Week 2025, the Legacy Conference will span three days and include interactive workshops, student panels and networking opportunities. Rooted in the theme, “From First to Fearless: Legacy in the Making,” the sessions celebrate the resilience and brilliance of first-gen college students and will further connect students with professionals and campus resources to support their continued success.

“The Legacy Conference is more than an event; it’s a student development experience,” said DeOnte Brown, who will begin his new position as dean of Undergraduate Studies Nov. 14. “It affirms the unique strengths and stories of first-generation students while equipping them with tools to thrive academically, professionally and personally. By centering personal experience, community and legacy, FSU fosters a culture of excellence that reverberates across campus and beyond.”

For the full schedule of FGEN week events, visit care.fsu.edu/fgen-celebration-week.

Upcoming Legacy Conference Schedule of Events:

Thursday, Nov. 6

Self-discovery, Wellness and Global Mindset

Exchange Programs
3:45 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202

Stress Management Workshop
4 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 105

Values, Voice and Victory
5 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202

Mindfulness Workshop
5 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 211

Monday, Nov. 10

Leadership, Legacy and Motivation

From First to Fearless
2:30 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202

DREAMing Forward: First-Gen Student Leaders Panel
3:45 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 105

The Tailored Man
3:45 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202

Locked In: Goal Setting Workshop
5 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202

Additional FGEN Week 2025 events:

THURSDAY, NOV. 6

First-Generation Shark Tank Competition
4-6 p.m. | Innovation Hub

Put your problem-solving skills to the test and step into the spotlight for the First-Generation Shark Tank Competition. Co-sponsored by Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and FSU Innovation Hub, this exciting competition is open to all FSU students. Innovative ideas should tackle real challenges faced by First Gen college students. Compete for cash prizes, enjoy refreshments and join a community of changemakers ready to turn bold solutions into reality.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 12

Market Wednesday
10 a.m. – noon | Thagard Building

Stop by the CARE table to connect with other first-generation students and staff and take a photo to share the moment.

For more information about the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) and the programs they offer, visit care.fsu.edu.

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Florida State University has selected DeOnte Brown as its next dean of the Division of Undergraduate Studies. Brown, who is currently serving as assistant dean in the division and director of the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), will begin his new role Nov. 14. 

As CARE director, Brown has led innovative student success efforts that serve populations such as first-generation students, Pell Grant-eligible students, and those who have experienced homelessness or foster care. He oversaw the expansion of CARE’s programs and services through the QUEST Scholars Program, the Illuminate Program and Scholarship and multiple pre-collegiate programs.  

“DeOnte Brown’s visionary leadership has had a lifechanging impact on thousands of students across our university,” said Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “He has helped create powerful learning environments that support and engage FSU students to reach their highest potential, and I’m excited to see Dr. Brown bring his thoughtfulness and collaborative energy to this new role.” 

As a first-generation student from Quincy, Florida, Brown received a bachelor’s degree in public administration from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Education from Florida A&M University and a Doctor of Philosophy in learning sciences from Clemson University. 

Brown started at FSU as an academic success coach in 2010, eventually moving into a program coordinator position in CARE. He spent time back at Clemson, where he climbed the ranks in administration, serving as director of retention programs and later assistant dean of students before returning to FSU in 2021 for his current roles within Undergraduate Studies and CARE. The CARE department spans the Division of Undergraduate Studies as well as the Division of Student Affairs. 

Brown has secured federal grants totaling several million dollars to support Upward Bound college preparatory programs and Student Support Services programs managed by CARE.  

The Iota Delta Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. presented Brown with the 2024-2025 Most Valuable Faculty Award, and he received a 2020 Outstanding First-Year Student Advocate Award from Cengage and the National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition.     

“My personal commitment to student success is powered by the belief that every student deserves access to opportunity, support and pathways to excellence,” Brown said. “Our outstanding faculty and staff in Undergraduate Studies play a critical role in shaping the undergraduate student experience by fostering student learning, academic engagement and holistic support. Building on the success of prior deans, Dean O’Shea and the late Dean Laughlin and Dean Rackley, I look forward to working alongside faculty, staff and students to continue achieving positive student success results and providing an enriching undergraduate education.” 

Brown will continue to lead CARE while FSU conducts a national search for a director. 

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