Through BizLife Powered by S&P Global, FIU Business is strengthening its partnership with the company to connect students with industry professionals, introduce career opportunities and develop skills employers increasingly value.
FIU is one of several universities nationwide where S&P Global maintains recurring programming of this kind, a distinction that reflects the company's interest in the university's emerging talent.
"FIU was selected based off of some relationships internally with FIU alum and some experiences that our recruiters had had when they had come down here and met with some of the students," said Ryan McDay, global director of culture and engagement at S&P Global.
The collaboration supports BizLife, FIU Business' living-learning community for first- and second-year students, which integrates academic, residential and career development experiences.
"For students looking to develop leadership skills and take initiative, this experience can open doors to internships, career opportunities and a growing professional network," said Melissa Silveira, assistant director of FIU's Office of Academic Advising at FIU Business.
Participation in the program has expanded considerably since last year, with 25 students joining BizLife for their first year, and 24 students returning for their second year. McDay views it as evidence of FIU's commitment to preparing students for the workforce.
"It's very exciting for us," he said. "We're happy to see FIU's commitment to the program and ensuring that the right number and the right types of students are a part of the program."
The partnership provides an opportunity for S&P Global to engage students well before they begin applying for internships and full-time positions. For FIU Business, it brings professional development into students' everyday college experience, helping them understand industry expectations and build relationships early in their academic careers.
“For our students, this partnership makes the industry real,” said John Nykolaiszyn, director of the Office of Business Career Management at FIU Business. “They meet professionals, ask questions, and start building relationships early, which changes how they approach their classes and their careers. Interest in the program is growing and we’re seeing more students eager to be part of it.”
McDay said FIU students have already demonstrated qualities that align with the company's talent-development priorities.
"You have a group of students that are curious about what exists out there, they display great work ethic," he said. "They are very attentive, committed to the programs that we have shared with them."
The partnership also reflects changing expectations in the workplace, particularly as artificial intelligence transforms industries and career paths. While technical knowledge remains important, McDay emphasized the continued value of communication, presentation and analytical skills.
Students participating in BizLife programming gain exposure to S&P Global's businesses and the broader financial services industry while developing the ability to analyze information and communicate findings effectively.
The company's long-term vision extends beyond its own recruitment needs. McDay hopes to see an expanding network of program alumni who can return to FIU to share their professional experiences and guide future participants.
Ultimately, he said, success would mean seeing BizLife graduates build careers at S&P Global and other organizations across the country.
"It's about equipping them so that they are better prepared when they go out there in the workforce, not just necessarily S&P, but for other organizations."
As the partnership grows, FIU Business and S&P Global are building more than a recruitment pipeline. They're creating opportunities for students to develop the professional relationships, confidence and skills that can shape careers long after graduation.