My Global Journey

I’m Rafael Toste de Castro, a Brazilian student at the University of Florida studying Economics and Marketing and pursuing a Master of Science in Marketing.

My international journey began with six months as a high school exchange student in Idaho. I arrived with limited English, and soccer became one of my first ways to connect with people. Years later, moving to UF brought new challenges, friendships, and opportunities. This time, beach volleyball helped me build a community.

Through the International Scholars Program, I’ve connected these personal experiences with my coursework, my work at UF’s International Center, and my leadership in the American Marketing Association. Together, they have shaped how I communicate, understand different perspectives, and approach marketing.

This portfolio explores what I’ve learned along the way—and how I plan to carry those lessons into a career in marketing, research, and global strategy.