The 2026 Transformation Contest gave four FIU students an opportunity to extend their reflections beyond the classroom through a four-day Transformation Fly-In in Washington, D.C. As part of FIU Global Learning, winners Chaitanya Raj Shah, Hnin Eaindray Tun, Maria Gutierrez, and Juan Villa Cardona met with professionals in international higher education to explore global issues and experienced the nation's capital through cultural and educational activities.
Throughout the visit, students engaged with leaders from NAFSA, FIU in DC, George Washington University, and Freedom House while exploring how global learning connects to careers, public service and civic engagement.
For Chaitanya Raj Shah, a sophomore majoring in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence, conversations about artificial intelligence expanded his perspective on the field. He said the experience helped him see AI not only as a technical discipline but also as a human and ethical responsibility.
That message resonated with Hnin Eaindray Tun, a freshman majoring in Mechanical Engineering, who reflected on the importance of considering the broader impact of innovation. "As a Mechanical Engineering student, I used to think that success meant building a machine that works perfectly. This trip taught me that to be a successful engineer, I cannot just stay in the lab. Part of my responsibility is to be active in the global community."
Juan Villa Cardona, a sophomore majoring in International Business, said the experience reinforced the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for others. "I returned to Miami full of knowledge and eager to help my classmates. I want to give back and return the collaboration that has been given to me."
For Maria Gutierrez, a senior majoring in Sociology and Women's and Gender Studies, conversations with higher education and communications professionals strengthened her commitment to service, dialogue and community engagement. She reflected on how storytelling and global learning can inspire empathy, broaden perspectives, and encourage meaningful action.
The experience also left a lasting impression on the professionals who met with the students. Dr. Jennifer Donaghue, Assistant Provost for International Education at The George Washington University shared that “Hosting the FIU delegation was a wonderful reminder of the passion and curiosity driving the next generation of global leaders. Internationalization is not just about moving across borders; it's about creating spaces where diverse perspectives meet. Global challenges require collaborative minds, and sharing our work with FIU’s bright students confirms that the future of international policy, diplomacy, and exchange is in exceptionally good hands.”
Similarly, Dr. Shanna Saubert, Associate Director for Research & Scholarship at NAFSA: Association of International Educators expressed that “Meeting students from a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds was a meaningful reminder of the power of international education to build understanding, expand opportunity, and inspire future leaders. Programs like this reflect NAFSA's mission by creating authentic connections that strengthen our global community and encourage the next generation to see themselves as active participants in an interconnected world.”
Together, the experiences demonstrated that transformation extends beyond academic achievement. By connecting with professionals, engaging with global issues and reflecting on their own aspirations, the students returned with a deeper understanding of how they can contribute as leaders, advocates and engaged global citizens. The 2026 Transformation Fly-In reflects FIU Global Learning's commitment to helping students connect personal growth with global engagement, turning reflection into meaningful action.