Ryan Ruiz
Global Exchanges Student
Bachelor's in History & International Affairs

Ryan Ruiz, history and international affairs double major, completed his Global Exchange at The University of Salzburg in Austria during spring 2019.

Many Global Exchanges students discover self-growth and develop a new perspective on their exchange. “I wanted to study abroad because it was a unique opportunity that few American college students take. I wanted to see and experience the world outside my normal bubble. It gave me the opportunity to be independent,” he said.

As an exchange student, Ruiz gained valuable skills for his future and expanded his professional network. “This experience taught me how to be more outgoing and adventurous. I now have the goal to work and live abroad, hopefully finding a career that allows me to explore more parts of the world,” he said.

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.

FSU’s Global Exchange program can help you gain international experience and connections that will advance your future career and worldview. The deadline to apply for a fall or academic year exchange is February 1; the deadline to apply for a spring exchange is October 1.

“It may seem like a scary decision to make, but you will not regret a second of it if you take the leap. You are going to have times where you doubt your decision but the friends you will make and the experiences you will have will make every second worth it,” Ruiz said.

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.