Florida International University (FIU)

Florida International University lives up to its name with “strong programs in business, engineering, and international relations, making it a great place for students pursuing global careers.” Students appreciate the collaborative, interdisciplinary atmosphere on campus: “You’ll see pre-health students exchanging study tips with engineering majors, business students teaming up with artists on creative projects, and social science students sharing ideas with future tech innovators.” There’s also a lauded flexibility, whether that’s for studying in-person or online or as seen in the “great support system [for] physical, mental, or emotional needs.” Additionally, a steady influx of emails helps to communicate opportunities like “internships or mentorships and career fairs.” The school’s location in Miami is advantageous for the professional connections—there are “tons of networking and job opportunities in a major global city”—and the academic experience. Instructors often integrate the city into their classes, whether that’s “walking around a new part of South Florida every Wednesday for six hours, and learning about the history of Miami,” getting “extra credit points for participating in community events,” or having “a blast” learning about art directly from artists at local museums. Overall, students praise the “vast knowledge of the educators” here who “bring real-world experience into the classroom, which makes learning more engaging and applicable.”

The student body is “extremely diverse,” which students consistently cite as a top strength of the school. There’s “a large representation of Hispanic and Latinx students” and students “from all different parts of the city, country, and world.” One student shares, “I’ve been able to meet students from South Korea, Chile, Azerbaijan, and Sweden all within the Miami campus.” Another student agrees, saying, “My peers at FIU are a vibrant mix of local commuters and international students, [which reflects] both our name, Florida International University, and the city of Miami itself.” Students here “bring unique perspectives that make discussions engaging and thought-provoking,” and classmates enjoy learning “not just from classes, but from the students and their culture.” Students are “very enthusiastic” and have “a lot of school pride.” It’s an atmosphere where people are “spirited, welcoming, and passionate about learning and building a community.” Fellow classmates can be found “studying when they have free time, but at the same time, they enjoy their time on campus.” Overall, it’s a place where it’s “easy to connect with others and find great people” and “people go out of their way to be kind.”

“The campus is buzzing with activity” and there’s “something for everyone,” whether that’s tailgating during football season, building a racecar with the Panther Motorsports club, or taking fitness classes like yoga, spin, and Zumba. Outdoor activities are plentiful and include surfing, kayaking at FIU’s waterfront Biscayne Bay Campus, or volunteering for a beach clean-up. Students say that while “Greek life exists, the absence of a designated Greek row hinders its visibility,” and some wish the scene were stronger. That doesn’t mean that the energy on this campus is lacking. FIU offers “incredible school spirit,” which is “on full display” during athletic games, and the on-campus concerts are “a great experience.” Students often gather at the Graham Center, where there is “always music playing and there are restaurants and lounge areas.” Many students enjoy exploring everything Miami has to offer, including museums, restaurants, parks, and nightlife. In short, “It’s a fast-paced environment, but it has a laid-back, Miami vibe that makes it feel balanced.”