For Cal State Fullerton students looking to build global connections on campus, the Global Titan volunteer programs offer a unique opportunity to engage with international cultures, gain leadership experience and make lifelong friends. Through the Global Titan Buddy and Global Titan Leader programs, domestic students serve as cultural ambassadors and peer supporters for international students adjusting to life in the U.S.
Two volunteers share how the program helped them grow personally and professionally while creating friendships that reach across countries.
From Shared Hobbies to Lasting Friendship
Tyler Leib joined the Global Titan Buddy Program to meet new people and learn about other cultures firsthand.
“I love learning new languages and hearing from people who speak their native language,” said Leib. “It helps me develop a new cultural and world understanding.”
Though he and his buddy have different majors, they were paired up because they share similar hobbies, particularly baseball and travel. “We watched games together, explored new places in Southern California, and talked a lot about American life and culture,” said Leib.
One standout moment during the program was introducing his buddy to Hispanic cuisine and his own family.
“My family shared stories and asked him about life in his home country. It was a great experience to see different cultures and experiences being shared by people I know,” he said.
In another favorite memory, Leib and his buddy both invited friends to spend a day in Los Angeles — trying Korean food, visiting Koreatown and The Grove, and attending a Dodgers game.
“We got to see our favorite players. That was an amazing experience for both of us,” said Leib.
The experience led to a lasting friendship. “Even though he is returning to Korea at the end of the semester, we still want to keep in touch and visit each other in the future. I am planning a trip to Korea,” Leib shared.
Building Global Perspective Through Leadership
As both a Global Titan Buddy and Global Titan Leader, Bryan Morales found purpose in helping international students transition to life at CSUF — and he gained a global perspective along the way.
“I’ve never had the chance to travel abroad before, but I’ve always wanted to explore and meet people from different countries,” said Morales. “Through this program, I spoke to students from Germany, France, Japan, China, Belize, India, South Korea, Mexico and Taiwan. Each one brought a different perspective and helped me develop a global mindset.”
As a Global Titan Buddy, Morales was matched with a student from Mexico who shared his love of the outdoors.
“One of my favorite memories was walking around the arboretum. I learned so much about his love of LA culture and plant life,” said Morales. “We’d talk about our cultural differences — like how almost everyone in a Mexican community has a nickname. It gave me insight into how deep that sense of community runs.”
As a Global Titan Leader, Morales supported student orientations, volunteered at International Education and Engagement events, and participated in IEE’s International Coffee and Tea Breaks. “Our main responsibility is to ensure that international students have as smooth a transition to American life as possible,” explained Morales.
Morales credits the program for sharpening his leadership and interpersonal skills.
“With so many students coming into the U.S. for the first time, we took the initiative to introduce ourselves and welcome them to the U.S.,” said Morales. “Being the person to bridge and introduce them into American culture is so fulfilling.”
Getting Involved
Both Morales and Leib encourage students to apply for the Global Titan volunteer programs.
“It’s a great way to broaden your horizons and meet fun international friends,” said Morales. “I would highly recommend you apply if you’re interested in learning about people and cultures from around the world.”
Leib agrees: “Even though we may come from different countries, being able to relate to someone and become close is an unforgettable experience. It’s something that can change your life — and maybe even inspire you to study abroad yourself.”
Want to make international connections and grow as a leader? Applications for Global Titan Buddies and Global Titan Leaders are open. Visit the Global Titan Volunteer page to learn more. Follow @csufinternational on Instagram for information and updates.