“I knew Florida State University was right for me because of the abundance of resources provided for transfer students like me. From the application process to registering for classes or attending orientation, I always knew that I had support.”
Fast Facts
- Loves to Hoop: Plays for the FSU club basketball team
- Favorite Song: "Take the A Train" by Duke Ellington
- Ambitious: Filmed a documentary in Portuguese, without speaking Portuguese
- Adventurous: Favorite mountain to climb is the Granite Peak
- Favorite Spot on Campus: The top of the West Pensacola parking garage
Aiden Leslie, a senior majoring in political science in the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy at Florida State University, was drawn to the university for its strong undergraduate research programs and the unique opportunities available to transfer students.
Inspired by the campus’s architectural beauty and walkability, Leslie quickly felt at home and appreciated the support provided throughout the transfer process from St. Petersburg College.
Leslie’s passion for research led to a fellowship with the Tyler Center for Global Studies, where he conducted an independent documentary project in São Paulo, Brazil. The film, “Lane Splitting,” explored the lives of young motorcycle couriers navigating urban challenges and labor rights struggles. Through this work, Leslie combines interests in journalism, filmmaking and advocacy, aiming to tell stories that inspire positive change.
In just two semesters, he has earned recognition on both the President’s and Dean’s lists. After graduation, Leslie plans to travel abroad and attend law school to practice human rights-focused or immigration law.
What made you want to transfer to Florida State University?
I began studying at FSU in the fall of 2024, after transferring from St. Petersburg College. I knew Florida State University was right for me because of the abundance of resources provided for transfer students like me. From the application process to registering for classes or attending orientation, I always knew that I had support. I remember being encapsulated by the red brick buildings on my first visit and the beautiful trees that were found all over campus. The overall walkability of the campus played a huge role in my choice as well. FSU has a great reputation for its undergraduate research programs, which made the decision easy.
The university’s proximity to the capitol has also allowed me to make valuable connections in my field of political science. The opportunities I have been provided to explore different academic disciplines and career fields at FSU are unparalleled and as a transfer student, I felt right at home from the moment I set foot on campus.
What did you explore in your undergraduate research project?
Funded by the Tyler Center for Global Studies as a Tyler Fellow in São Paulo, Brazil, I completed my documentary about young motorcyclists from disadvantaged backgrounds enduring a labor rights struggle. This short documentary “Lane Splitting” delves into the world of motorcycle couriers in São Paulo who navigate the city’s chaotic traffic at high speeds to deliver goods quickly, often risking their lives daily in a system that exploits their labor while offering little protection or recognition.
This opportunity has allowed me to begin my professional career in journalism and filmmaking. Whether it be through journalism, documentary filmmaking, academia or something else, I aim to tell stories that can facilitate positive change in the places where it’s needed most.
How has being a student at FSU helped you in achieving your goals and getting on the right path for your future?
My time here at FSU has been incredibly valuable in terms of learning about the possibilities of academia and research, as well as the importance of being a lifelong learner. I have made connections with my professors that have provided me with countless opportunities, such as traveling internationally to conduct research.
Speaking at the President’s Showcase for Undergraduate Research Excellence was an unforgettable experience, and I hope to inspire this generation of young researchers to spark positive change in their own lives and the lives of those around them.
What plans do you have for the future?
I intend to travel the world and share important stories, such as the one told in my documentary. I will continue to make documentary films and content while connecting with people in places most would not think to venture to.
After traveling, I plan to attend law school in the hopes of becoming a lawyer and practicing human-rights-focused law or immigration law. Using my background in law coupled with my experiences connecting with people from different backgrounds all over the world, I want to go into politics and fight for issues that I feel are important. I am committed to making positive change wherever I can.