Two students walking

Welcome back, Gators! Here’s what’s changed since you’ve been gone.

The start of the fall semester is upon us, and it’s bringing more than just new classes and new students. There’s a lot to look forward to in the coming months – and a lot to catch up on.

If you’re returning to Gainesville after a few semesters away, here’s a quick rundown on what’s waiting for you this semester.

Find your perfect fit with an on-campus job

Working on campus can offer valuable experience in your field and the opportunity to grow in a professional environment. Designed for students, these jobs also allow for flexible schedules.

Don’t qualify for federal work-study? You’re still in luck. There are variety of jobs open to students that don’t take financial aid into consideration. Through these positions, you can develop skills such as leadership, time management and communication to fuel your post-college job search.

Jump-start your job hunt here.

Dive into the visual arts at the Reitz Union gallery

Located on Level 2 of the Reitz Union, The Gallery is one of many exciting facets of the student union. After closing due to renovations, the space is now open, serving as a hub for student and community art.

The Gallery hosts several exhibits per semester and is free for students and the public. So far this year, the lineup has included “Moving Entities,” a show based on UF graduate student Monsur Awotunde’s Yoruba heritage, and “What were you wearing?,” which shed light on the stories of sexual assault survivors.

If you’re interested in showing your art, apply here.

Manage your mental health with new Counseling & Wellness Center programs

Maintaining your mental health is a must, and the Counseling & Wellness Center is here to help with three new offerings.

Throughout the semester, the Counseling & Wellness Center hosts Gator-2-Gator consultations, which are 30-minute sessions with trained student ambassadors who can offer support and information about other services. Or, contact an ambassador in writing through the Letter of Care campaign.

You can also download SilverCloud, an online resource with seven self-guided programs to develop mindfulness, manage anxiety and more.

Want to be a mental health ambassador? Applications to become an AWARE ambassador are open until Sept. 10.

Make getting vaccinated a priority this semester

Check the COVID-19 vaccine off your back-to-school to-do list. You can schedule an appointment at ONE.UF or by calling the Student Health Care Center at 352-249-7472.

Walk-ins are also welcome at the Student Health Care Center Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.


Writer: Veronica Nocera, vnocera@ufsa.ufl.edu