One of Emma Towler’s most significant takeaways from being a UF student is that nothing is off the table. Now that Towler is about to be a Gator grad, she can reflect on her journey, which was not as linear as she thought it would be. Although she is a…
“I am very detail-oriented, and I try to be mindful of the small but impactful parts of life,” Jacob Poulalion said. “The ‘little things’ reflect so much about the overall quality of an experience, and I’ve implemented that mindset into my education, professional roles and personal journey.” Poulalion is a…
Kamila Hernandez didn’t expect to go to college. She has always been academically driven but didn’t consider college possible because her family had never been. Hernandez also wasn’t sure how she would pay for it. Yet, despite her concerns, she applied with help from her high school teacher. Hernandez knew…
At 147,000 square feet, Southwest Recreation Center is a hub for University of Florida (UF) students looking to get active. The two-story athletic facility includes an indoor track, four basketball courts, strength and conditioning spaces, a cardio room, a multi-purpose activity court and more. Now, the recreation center is also…
“Service is a core pillar in my life because I want to make a difference,” said Catherine White, a fourth-year political science student at the University of Florida (UF). “I care about giving back and creating relationships within my community.” White has been inspired by helping others for as long…
Elle Collins, who started working at the University of Florida in 2016, took over as director for the Machen Florida Opportunity Scholars Program in October. Her favorite part of this new position, she said, is the various capacities in which she gets to interact with students, following them throughout their…
Great Gator Welcome is the official start to a new semester at the University of Florida (UF). From Jan. 9 to Jan. 13, the Division of Student Life hosted events to celebrate students returning to campus after the holiday break. “Great Gator Welcome is a time students can build community…
For Simonne Horman Paparella, Phi Sigma Sigma is more than just a sisterhood — it’s an experience that has shaped her entire career. She was first initiated into the sorority as a freshman pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. Now, six years…
Students, staff and faculty gathered to celebrate an Accessible Day at the Lake during the afternoon of Oct. 21. The event took Gators out of the busy swamp and into a state of relaxation with Lake Wauburg’s cool breeze, clear sky and calm water. As guests enjoyed the lake and…
When Gators undergo challenges, we bounce back academically and, for some, in inflatable bounce houses. The Gators Bounce Back event took place at the Reitz Union North Lawn on Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It was the first of a new annual event that encouraged students to…
