The Global Titan Leaders program hosts events for international students, providing them with opportunities to make friends, engage in collaborative activities and familiarize themselves with the Cal State Fullerton campus. The program resides in the International Education and Engagement department.
Miranda Garcia, a recent graduate who majored in psychology and communicative disorders, volunteered as a Global Titan Leader during her senior year. Interested in connecting with the student community before graduation, she managed GTL easily with class and work commitments.
“I have always been interested in learning about other cultures, backgrounds and experiences, especially from somebody firsthand,” Garcia said. “I think it is an important and beautiful part of life that we get to share different perspectives with one another.”
Responsibilities of a Global Titan Leader include setting up events like orientations, checking students in and participating in campus activities. Beyond guided campus tours, there are coffee and tea breaks as well as group outings to Discoverfest, Titans Athletics games and school events.
Leading up to last fall’s orientation, Garcia wanted to make long-lasting connections. While working at the check-in desk, she saw how students were filled with both excitement and fear. Affirmed in the reason why she started volunteering in the first place, Garcia made sure to offer smiles, compliments and express how happy she was that they came to the event.
“I was still able to have longer conversations with students throughout the orientation, but seeing how much of a difference I made by earnestly welcoming them was something I will remember for a long time,” she said. “This experience has taught me that throughout the remainder of my college experience and life overall, even if I feel like the position I’m currently in isn’t enough to impact others or make their day brighter, there is always something I can do to make this true.”
Danielle Majam-Finch, program director, provided support and invested in the volunteers’ personal and professional growth, which further fulfilled Garcia’s positive experience.
“Danielle organized an additional leadership training and tour of the Career Center that was extremely helpful and insightful for me, and I learned more about what the school offers so I can now share with others,” Garcia said.
Pursuing a career in healthcare, Garcia’s experience in the GTL program prepared her to answer questions about multiculturalism in graduate school applications and engage in future roles that require working with clients of different backgrounds. The personal benefits of friendship and confidence along with the professional benefits of leadership and communication make the program an excellent option for domestic students looking to enrich their college experience with their peers.
“Share your hobbies, interests, stories and favorite spots around campus with other students to continue cultivating a welcoming and inclusive environment,” Garcia said.
Global Titan Leaders volunteer applications for the 2026-27 school year will be shared via email during the summer. Visit the University Extension website to learn more about the program.