For Missouri State University senior Michael Guilfoy, college was more than earning a degree. It was also about stepping beyond his comfort zone and finding purpose in unexpected places.

As he graduates this May with dual majors in political science and modern languages (German), Guilfoy reflects on a college experience that transformed his worldview and laid the foundation for a future in international education.

Taking risks helps clarify career path

When Guilfoy first arrived at Missouri State from St. Louis in fall 2021, he was not exactly sure what he wanted to do.

“I was still trying to figure out what I wanted to study,” Guilfoy said. “MSU offered generous scholarships and a wide range of programs that allowed me to explore.”

Over the next four years, Guilfoy challenged himself to pursue new experiences, from applying for internships and studying abroad to traveling solo in foreign countries.

“I’m proud of the personal growth that came from trying new things,” Guilfoy said. “Each experience shaped me, especially those that felt a little intimidating at first.”

His studies in political science led to prestigious internships with the U.S. House of Representatives’ Ways and Means Committee and a law firm in Springfield. These opportunities helped him clarify his interests.

“I learned that I didn’t want to be a lawyer or work on the hill, but I loved roles where I could serve others and see a direct, positive impact,” Guilfoy said.

In 2024, Guilfoy was one of six outstanding students awarded the university’s 2024-25 Citizen Scholar Award. This is the highest award available to Missouri State students to recognize stellar achievements with academics, community engagement and leadership.

Interest in German languages enhances goals

Simultaneously, his longstanding interest in the German language — sparked in sixth grade and enriched by college coursework and a study abroad semester — evolved into a second major.

“Languages are powerful tools for building a global mindset,” Guilfoy said.

He studied abroad in Marburg, Germany, for close to six months in 2024.

“There, I took courses in both English and German, made friends from around the world and learned more about other cultures through traveling and interactions with locals,” he said.

Studying abroad boosts confidence

“The families I stayed with made me feel comfortable. Being invited into someone’s home in a different country and culture is special,” he added. “My time abroad helped grow my confidence, showed me I can adapt in foreign environments and broadened my view of the world.”

Beyond academics, Guilfoy engaged actively with campus organizations. Participation in Global Leaders and Mentors (GLAM) and SAAB fostered leadership skills and cultural awareness.

“I live with four other guys from SAAB, and it’s just an amazing community. We push each other to succeed and grow personally and professionally,” he said.

Discovering a passion for international education

A turning point came when Guilfoy joined Missouri State’s Office of Community and Global Partnerships as a student worker in the fall of 2024. There, he found the perfect intersection of his interests — cultural exchange, service and global learning — under the guidance of Brad Bodenhausen and Dr. Peng Zhang. Bodenhausen is vice president for community and global partnerships. Zhang is the director of strategy and innovation.

“My responsibilities include assessing fiscal impact of state legislation through filing fiscal notes, providing support for sponsored exchange students and helping to prepare and plan for a study abroad trip to China,” Guilfoy said. “Working in that office solidified my passion for international education. It showed me how powerful cross-cultural interactions can be.”

He often quotes writer Mark Twain when explaining this passion: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.”

For Guilfoy, that message rings especially true.

“I want to encourage others, especially those who’ve never had these experiences, to engage with cultures different from their own,” he said.

Looking ahead

After graduation, Guilfoy plans to co-lead a university-sponsored trip to China, exploring educational and cultural institutions.

This summer, he will teach English at a Christian school in Cambodia, combining service with cultural immersion.

His future aspirations include pursuing a Master of Business Administration at Missouri State and potentially participating in the Fulbright Austria U.S. Teaching Assistantship Program.

“My four years at Missouri State have been transformational,” Guilfoy said.

Explore degree options in the Reynolds College

Photos provided by Michael Guilfoy.