MIB Student Spotlight: Marianna Gutierrez
Marianna Gutierrez, MIB Graduating student, will be joining Citibank in Tampa as an ICG Technology Analyst after graduation.
Q: Tell us about yourself.
Gutierrez: “My name is Marianna Gutierrez, and I’m from Parkland, Florida. I am in the Master’s of International Business program and completed my undergraduate degree here at UF in Informations systems. During my time at UF, I have been involved in the Hispanic Student Association and the Florida Leadership Academy. These experiences have helped me grow as a leader while staying connected to my culture and values. I’m passionate about international business, cross-cultural collaboration, and making a meaningful impact in whatever space I’m in.”
Q: What was your undergraduate major, and why the MIB Program?
Gutierrez: “My undergraduate major was information systems.I chose the MIB program because of my passion for working internationally and developing a strong understanding of different cultures. The MIB curriculum is exactly what you need to build the skills to navigate global business environments. Courses like Global Strategic Management and International Finance give practical tools for global collaboration. Additionally, the Global Immersion Experience is an incredible opportunity that strengthens one’s global perspective.”
Q: What is the best thing you like about the MIB program?
Gutierrez: “The best thing about the MIB program is how supportive and enriching the entire experience is. From the start, I felt genuinely guided by my advisor Andrea Kim, who took the time to understand my goals and helped me make the most of the program. The classes were very engaging, especially Global Strategic Management with Professor Pryor. The course challenged me to think critically and I found the case-based approach valuable. Another highlight was the Global Immersion Experience in Peru. Being fully immersed in a different culture and learning how businesses operate in that context gave me a much deeper appreciation for global dynamics. Overall, the MIB program has helped me grow both professionally and personally, and I feel much more prepared for a global career because of it.”
Q: Please share your GIE experience with us.
Gutierrez: “My Global Immersion Experience was in Fall 2024, where I had the opportunity to travel to Lima, Peru. It was an incredible experience that exposed me to a variety of industries through site visits. One of the most rewarding parts was working on a consulting project for a local jewelry business in Lima. We were able to apply what we learned in the classroom to help solve real-world challenges. I truly enjoyed my time in the city—so much so that I extended my stay to explore more of Peru, including visiting Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. The entire experience deepened my cultural understanding and reinforced my passion for international business.”
Q: What are your plans after graduation? How did the MIB program help you?
Gutierrez: “After graduation, I’ll be joining Citibank in Tampa as an ICG Technology Analyst. The MIB program has really prepared me for this next step by strengthening my global perspective and giving me the tools to work across cultures and markets. Courses like International Finance and Open Economy Macroeconomics gave me a strong foundation to understand financial systems and economic trends, which I know will be valuable entering the financial services industry. Combined with experiences like the Global Immersion in Peru, the program has equipped me with both the technical and cultural skills I’ll need to succeed in a global organization like Citi.”
Q: What is your advice to other students looking at the MIB program?
Gutierrez: “My advice to students considering the MIB program is to really lean in and take full advantage of everything it offers. The classes are incredibly enriching, and the professors genuinely care about your growth—both academically and professionally. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, build relationships, and immerse yourself in the material. The more you put into the experience, the more you’ll get out of it—not just in terms of knowledge, but also personal and global perspective.”
Q: One really cool fact about yourself.
Gutierrez: “I have a goal to go to the seven wonders of the world in seven years. So far I have gotten to two out of seven and will be going to my third this upcoming summer!”
