Melannie Rosa-Fontanez
Global Exchanges Student
Bachelor's in German

Melannie Rosa-Fontanez, FSU student studying German, completed her Global Exchange at the University of Wuppertal in Germany during the 2019-2020 academic year.

“I have always loved the idea of living or studying abroad, but when I heard of the opportunity I had to study for a year in Germany, I took it,” Rosa-Fontanez said. “Afterall, what a better way to learn the German language by going to a country that spoke it. Besides going abroad, whether it is for studying or work or internship, every day you spend in your chosen country is an adventure.” While in studying internationally through the Global Exchanges program, FSU students can truly invest in learning about other cultures around the globe.

Students also broaden their world perspectives while studying abroad. According to Rosa-Fontanez, “Going to Germany, or any country you choose to go to, can shape you into a more globally-minded person. You learn to understand a new culture, a new language, and a rich history. You gain new perspectives and develop cross-cultural awareness that you would not normally get staying within your home country.”

Rosa-Fontanez was exhilarated by the cultural immersion and differences she encountered while abroad. “One of my favorite experiences was the public transportation. That’s right, public transit. The main reason why is that I have never used public transit before I went to Germany, and the other is that I could travel anywhere in Europe by train. Germany being in the center makes it a great spot to travel to so many places,” she said. She was able to visit many places including The German President’s House, the Castle of Brachenberg, Castle of Bruhl, the Berlin Wall, and the Netherlands.

Global Exchanges is an exciting and culturally immersive opportunity for FSU undergraduates to live, learn, and explore another culture as an exchange student at a partner university. Students who participate in the program can pay FSU tuition, take classes toward their major earning FSU credit, and use their financial aid. Choose from 45+ partner universities worldwide and stay abroad for 1-2 semesters at a time.

The Global Exchange program can help you gain international experience and connections that will advance your future career and worldview.

“If you have a country in mind that you would love to study in, it does not matter if it is for a couple of weeks or a semester or even a year, just go for it! You will not regret it, that I can promise you," she said. "It may seem hard or challenging because of the process of getting there, but once you do, it feels like an achievement. Overall, just have a great time, make friends, try new foods, and make memories!"

FSU students who are interested in enrolling in a Global Exchange program can visit globalexchanges.fsu.edu to learn more or email goglobal@fsu.edu to request an advising session.

If you've been on a Global Exchange and would like to share your experience with the FSU community, fill out this 20-minute questionnaire and prepare to upload photos from your exchange.