From Classroom to Capitol: Reflecting on My FIU Experience in Washington, DC | FIU News

FIU Online Student Finds Inspiration and Connection Through DC Fly-in Seminar

In March, a Florida International University (FIU) online student had the opportunity of a lifetime to participate in a DC Fly-in seminar, where they gained valuable insights and connections that will shape their future career in international relations and political science.

The three-day seminar in the nation’s capital provided the student with a deeper understanding of how their education at FIU can be applied in various fields. As an online student, they sometimes felt disconnected from the university community, but the experience in DC brought them closer to their fellow Panthers and provided a sense of direction for their career.

The student, who is set to graduate in December, was particularly inspired by the diverse range of opportunities presented during the seminar. They learned that success does not always follow a traditional path and that there are endless possibilities for utilizing their degree in different areas, both in DC and globally.

One highlight of the seminar was attending the Washington Post’s summit on emerging technologies, where the student had the chance to hear from leaders in the field of artificial intelligence, including representatives from OpenAI and DARPA. The experience broadened their perspective on the use of AI in defense technology and highlighted the importance of ethical considerations in technological advancements.

Additionally, the student and their group met with Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart’s office to discuss support for research projects at FIU, further solidifying their passion for public policy and defense.

Overall, the DC Fly-in seminar left the student feeling more confident in their degree program and future career prospects. It reignited their passion for public policy and defense and reinforced their sense of belonging to the FIU community. The experience served as a reminder that there is a place for everyone at the table, and that the opportunities for growth and success are limitless.