For Kristopher Martinez ’24, F&M wasn’t just a place to study business and government — here, he could live it, question it, and grow through it. Martinez said this immersive experience not only fostered skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership, but instilled the confidence he needed to embrace unexpected opportunities — such as landing a role as a contract specialist with the FBI. 

“F&M gave me skills that have been essential in the start of my career,” he said. “I credit F&M for challenging me and allowing me to see untapped opportunities.”

Martinez is a member of F&M’s Class of 2024. Within six months after graduation, 92% of the Class of 2024 were either employed or furthering their education. This is higher than the national average, which is typically in the mid-80% range.

“F&M gave me both the academic foundation and the critical thinking skills that continue to guide me.”

— Kristopher Martinez ’24

Kristopher Martinez ’24

Majors: Business, organizations and society and government 

Current role: Contract Specialist at Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

What did the first six months after graduating from F&M look like?

Thankfully, I already had a job offer before graduation, so from that aspect, there was relief. However, those first six months were an adjustment period. I had built a routine at F&M where I was comfortable, so moving to a new city and state had its obstacles that I underestimated. The change in lifestyle was more drastic than anticipated. I relied on those relationships I made at F&M to help facilitate the transition and keep me focused on the bigger picture.

How did your F&M experience prepare you for where you are now?

F&M gave me both the academic foundation and the critical thinking skills that continue to guide me. It challenged me to communicate effectively, and approach problems from multiple angles—skills that have been essential in the start of my career. Beyond academics, I believe that the relationships I had with professors, and the friendships I created while at F&M played a major role in my development on a personal level, even to this day. My professors helped instill the confidence, encouragement, and leadership qualities I needed to be where I am today. I’m truly grateful for everything they did and continue to do for me and others.

How does your current path compare to what you envisioned in your first year at F&M?

When I first came to F&M, I did have interest in both the business and government side of things. However, if you would have told me I’d be in public service, I would have thought you were insane. But change is good and having an open mind will lead to unexpected results. As I look back, the goal was always to be at a Fortune 500 company, but I credit F&M for challenging me and allowing me to see untapped opportunities.

Looking back on your college search, why did you choose F&M?

Coming from southwest Florida, F&M wasn’t originally on my radar until an adviser recommended it during my college search. When looking into it, F&M offered the kind of close academic mentorship and tight-knit community that’s hard to find elsewhere, and that made it the right fit. It felt like a place where I wouldn’t just study business or government—I’d live it, question it, and grow through it. F&M was one of the most unexpected, yet rewarding, experiences of my college search.