“While at FSU, I have been able to mentor future leaders and help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing higher education. Sharing what I’ve learned and supporting others has been the most rewarding part of my journey. ”
Fast Facts
- Runner: Has run three marathons
- Chef: Enjoys cooking in his free time
- Trilingual: Speaks English, Spanish and French
- Founder: Founding member of the FSU chapter of Delta Sigma Phi
- Favorite study spot: Balcony of the Student Union
Miguel Arceo-Miranda is committed to making political education and information more accessible through research, fundraising and volunteering.
He serves as constituent director for the Dale Ramirez and Romero Wyatt administration of the Student Government Association. He was a delegate of the Florida American Legion Boys State program in high school and now returns as a counselor and social media manager.
In 2024, he presented research on the Florida Election Study at the Election Science and Reform Association conference, a project with the LeRoy Collins Institute at FSU. He also received the David B. Ford Undergraduate Research Award through the IDEA Grant program for his research into the growing conservative movement in the Hispanic community.
In 2021, Arceo-Miranda founded the Heartland Scholarship, sponsored by Don Jose’s Mexican Restaurant in Sebring, to help academically talented students overcome financial barriers to college.
Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?
I chose to attend Florida State University because of the support system it provides students. I was amazed by the resources available to me, such as career advisers and the Office of National Fellowships. Having these resources helps me keep up with both my academic and career goals.
How have you furthered your academic journey outside of the classroom?
In June, I attended the Election Science and Reform Association conference in Tallahassee, where I presented research on the 2024 Florida Election Study with the LeRoy Collins Institute. I shared our findings and connected with election science scholars from across the country.
Last semester, I also received the David B. Ford Undergraduate Research Award through the IDEA Grant program. With this funding, I have been researching the growing conservative movement in the Hispanic community within the United States. This work has allowed me to study an important trend in election science while incorporating my cultural background into the research.
How do you give back to your community?
In 2021, I founded the Heartland Scholarship, which provides $5,000 scholarships to three graduating high school seniors each year. The program supports students who excel academically but face financial challenges.
I also volunteer with Florida American Legion Boys State, a program where high school students simulate local, county and state government. As a counselor and social media manager, I mentor participants and help share their stories online.
How has your work impacted others?
Elections are at the core of democracy, but only if people trust the process. Through my work with the LeRoy Collins Institute, I have contributed to research aimed at better understanding Florida’s electoral system. I have been able to mentor future leaders and help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing higher education. Sharing what I’ve learned and supporting others has been the most rewarding part of my journey.