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Welcome!
To Vania's Portfolio 

Empowering change through data-driven creativity

Reflection
 

Reflecting on my academic and extracurricular journey at Florida International University, I, Vania Arredondo, find a profound transformation in myself, particularly influenced by the Global Learning Medallion program. My experiences in this program have shaped not only my professional aspirations but also my understanding of global issues and cultural diversity.

Intro to Environmental Science: In this course, I explored the scientific dimensions of global environmental challenges, including climate change, energy, and biodiversity loss. This class underscored the interconnectedness of global systems and deepened my appreciation for sustainable practices, influencing my perspective on data-driven decision-making in environmental contexts.

Intro to Marketing: Studying marketing principles provided me with insights into customer needs and wants in various global markets. This course was instrumental in understanding how diverse cultural backgrounds influence consumer behavior and market strategies. It broadened my perspective on global business dynamics and the importance of culturally sensitive marketing approaches.

Israeli Innovation Honors Class: One of my most memorable projects was in the Israeli Innovation Honors class, where I delved into the concept of supplemental income through the development of the Pocket+ app. This project allowed me to apply marketing and strategic management concepts in a real-world context. By focusing on the creation of a platform that simplifies supplemental income opportunities, I explored innovative solutions to global economic challenges.

Global Learning Course Experiences: Throughout my courses, I have undertaken numerous projects and assignments that have shaped my global perspective. These have included research papers on international macroeconomics and engaging in case studies that highlight the intricate relationship between politics, economy, and culture in different regions.

Capstone Experience in Vietnam and Cambodia: My capstone experience, studying abroad in Vietnam and Cambodia, was a cornerstone of my global education. Engaging with the local culture, history, and people, I gained invaluable insights into the complexities of international relations and the impact of historical events on current affairs. This experience not only broadened my understanding of global issues but also enhanced my adaptability and cultural fluency.

Club Leadership and Community Involvement: As President of Future Business Leaders of America – Phi Beta Lambda, I led our members to engage not just on campus but also with the world around us. My focus was on fostering an understanding of diverse cultures and global business environments, preparing them to be true global business leaders.

Service Trips and Volunteering: My travel to India with the International Business Honor Society was a transformative experience. I learned about the challenges faced by low-income women in business and contributed to community service projects that aimed to empower them, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of global social entrepreneurship.

Tuesday Times Roundtables: Participating in the Tuesday Times Roundtables at FIU was a platform for exchanging knowledge, ideas, and creativity. These discussions were pivotal in broadening my perspective, helping me understand global issues through various lenses and enhancing my critical thinking skills.

This journey through the GLM program has been more than an academic pursuit; it has been a transformative experience that has shaped my personal and professional identity. I have emerged as a globally aware individual, passionate about making a difference in the world through informed, empathetic, and culturally sensitive approaches. With these experiences and learnings, I am equipped to embark on my next chapter, where I aim to apply my global learning to advocate for and assist those navigating the complexities of a new cultural environment.

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Spotlight of the week

Vietbodia

This interdisciplinary service-research program not only deepened my understanding of Southeast Asian culture and history but also provided me with a firsthand perspective on the significant historical events that shaped the region and their ongoing impact on current global relations.

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