Let’s meet Rose, a sophomore majoring in international business. UNF is located in the thriving business community of Jacksonville, Florida, which includes four Fortune 500 company headquarters. Students enter the workforce with valuable internship experience and connections already established in the world of transportation, health, finance, technology and more. Tell us about your experience, Rose.
– Thanks, Alex. When I was looking for colleges, UNF really stood out to me, because of the International Business program, which offers students various opportunities to intern or study abroad. I’m in the dual-degree program, which lets students spend two years at UNF and then two years in either Spain, France or Germany. For my first two years at UNF, I’m working on my business administration major and minors in psychology and marketing. Next year, I’ll head to the University of Valencia in Spain where I’ll earn my international business degree and plan to do an internship in international economics or commercial aviation. In the meantime, I have been working hard on my Spanish skills. Just as I’m going abroad, other students will be coming here to UNF for two years of study. UNF students and international students buddy up with each other to help fully immerse themselves in their new environments. Whether your interest is in logistics, finance, or business administration like me, UNF offers tons of ways for students to connect with businesses throughout the region and the world through career fairs, networking mixers and even summits on important issues. Students even have opportunities to connect with Fortune 500 companies, headquartered in Jacksonville, Fidelity, FIS, Landstar and CSX, as well as hundreds of other businesses in North Florida. UNF offers so many programs for those who love to travel not only abroad, but here in the US as well. I’ve also taken several recreational trips with UNF’s Eco Adventure Program and those have been some of my favorite times here. After graduation, I plan on working in either marketing or logistics, or the corporate side of a commercial airline and continue to travel the world. Back to you, Alex.
– No wonder UNF is the number one provider of talent for the region. And the opportunities for students expand far beyond Jacksonville. What a place to learn and live. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you, Rose. Thank you.
Let’s meet Ben, a senior, who is double-majoring in physics and biomedical sciences. UNF offers amazing research opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students across the university. And Ben has been involved in astrophysics research that is helping us better understand our universe. His lectures for Northeast Florida stargazers pack the house. Take it away, Ben.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up here in Jacksonville, I became interested in the medical field after getting involved in Ocean Rescue of our local fire department. Then my high-school physics teacher sparked my interest for astronomy and physics. The physics department here at UNF is tight-knit, which helped me quickly form close relationships with faculty and students. Professors work with us until we have a firm understanding of what we’re learning and they are eager for students to get involved with department projects and research. I joined the astronomy club early. And by the end of my third year, I had already given several lectures to large public audiences on primordial black holes, dark energy and matter and more. I spent a lot of my free time working on projects and interacting with friends. I’ve also been working on prebiotic chemistry or origin-of-life research with a faculty member of expertise in the field. We’ve been working on analyzing volcanic rock that may be able to help reactions that can form sugars without the presence of life. Pretty cool stuff. UNF provides students like me with the opportunity to work with faculty members and other scientists, who are doing research that will have a positive impact on the world. For instance, recently, when we were on the green watching a solar eclipse, another UNF team was working with NASA on a high-flying balloon research project. I want to use the skills I’ve learned at UNF to go to an osteopathic medical school, eventually, working as an emergency physician. I never would’ve imagined the deep friendships that I’ve made, or the cool opportunities that I’ve been given as a UNF student. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Ben. I can see the sky is truly the limit here at UNF. From black holes to research about Alzheimer’s, nanomaterials and even archeological digs, students could gain hands-on experience that prepare them for amazing careers. Great job.
Hadley is a sophomore study communication, while working with UNF’s outdoor program. Not only is UNF just 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, the campus itself provides the ideal backdrop for learning, relaxing and adventure. Whether conducting wetlands research, or studying various species, the 382-acre Sawmill Slough Preserve on campus, is a living-learning lab used across disciplines. We can’t wait to hear more, Hadley. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, y’all. Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve always loved getting outside and going on adventures. When I first visited UNF and saw its gorgeous landscaping and its very own nature preserve, I knew it was the place for me. It just felt like home. Nothing brings me more joy than getting out in nature. Going to UNF allows me to explore the outdoors without even leaving campus. I work at Eco Adventure, UNF’s outdoor program, which is home to five miles of nature trails, exciting adventure courses and the beautiful Lake Oneida. Eco Adventure also hosts several adventure trips throughout the year from skiing to whitewater rafting. Over spring break, we went camping out west and went to four national parks, including the Grand Canyon. I made new friends and fell even more in love with the outdoors. I can’t wait to go on future trips with Eco. Our recreation facilities at UNF offer something for everyone. The incredible Student Wellness Complex, features a rock-climbing wall, running track and fitness center. Most of the time though, you’ll find me outdoors, whether it’s walking on beautiful boardwalks back to your dorm, or renting out free camping equipment, paddleboards and kayaks from Eco Adventure, it’s hard to get bored. There’s even a zip-line and challenge course, or you can get your hands dirty at Ogier Gardens where some of the vegetables and herbs are used in our Osprey Cafe. Students can also adopt a bed and grow their own food, while enjoying the Florida sunshine. Going to a university with so many outdoor activities, gives me the opportunity to find everyday adventure. Next, I hope to manage social media for a company that also loves the outdoors. But for now, it’s time for me to take a hike. Back to you, Alex.
– Hadley, no wonder you love UNF. It sounds like a perfect place for anyone wanting to enjoy the Florida sun in such a unique setting. Thank you for sharing your story.
Let’s welcome Mahalia, a graduate student at UNF, who is also a standout student athlete and a leader on campus. She was recognized nationally among collegiate women in sports as a Honda Inspiration Award winner. When you hear her story, you’ll understand why she’s already a star on and off the court. Mahalia, you are up.
– Thank you, Alex. Last year, I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in California with two years of NCA eligibility left. I wanted to find a master’s program that fit my career interest and an athletic department that has a history of success. Now I’m on the opposite coast here at UNF, playing volleyball, which is one of 19 athletic teams that competes at the Division-I level in the ASUN Conference. As Ospreys, our athletic department strives for excellence in all aspects. We have beautiful facilities, including the newly renovated UNF Arena where you can catch a basketball game, or our home volleyball matches. No matter the sport, the energy is unstoppable. My favorite part of every home match, is seeing everyone hold up one finger during set points and doing our swoop clap at the end of the game before we run out into the stands. Our athletic department is built like a family and the Student-Athlete Center for Excellence, is where we often connect. It’s where we can find weekly check-ins, academic advising, tutoring help and support during intense travel periods. My favorite part is study hall where I can focus on my communication management courses. Thanks to the center and its staff, our overall department GPA has remained well over 3.0, including our volleyball team having a 3.69 GPA. Looking for more sports action? Jacksonville and North Florida are home to the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars, the PGA Tour and lots more. My involvement at UNF Athletics has given me opportunities to compete at high levels. It’s also led to leadership opportunities. I even served as the master of ceremonies for our president’s inauguration. After I finish my degree, I look forward to taking the things I learned at UNF to work in athletic leadership and do motivational speaking. Passing it back to you, Alex.
– Mahalia, as a former college athlete myself, I understand the discipline and dedication it takes to do what you are doing. Fantastic job and thank you for sharing your story.
Let’s welcome Gabi, a sophomore majoring in political science, who is very involved on campus. UNF offers 200 clubs and student organizations, including numerous sororities and fraternities. And Gabi is in quite a few of them, making her the perfect person to explain the endless opportunities for students. Tell us more, Gabi.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, y’all. When it came time for me to start looking at colleges, I knew I wanted to leave my smaller hometown and get a taste of life in the bigger city. Jacksonville is a large city with lots of opportunities. And UNF campus has a small community here. It’s the best of both worlds. There’s tons of different opportunities to get involved at UNF. For me, that means being a part of our Hicks Honors College, which emphasizes critical thinking and leadership skills. I’m also a member of a sorority. I’m a part of our Swoop Squad, our campus tour guides, a book club member and I work for the Jacksonville World Affairs Council, which brings big-name speakers to campus. Not only does UNF give students lots of ways to get involved, it also provides tons of resources to help them thrive, including guidance from professors, advisors and counselors. Students also help each other. I loved my time at the Hicks Honors College so much. I now mentor two freshmen by helping them feel at home on campus and finding ways to make the most out of all that UNF has to offer. Getting involved, makes UNF, well, UNF. Whether you’re involved in one club or several, it truly makes your college experience unique. After receiving my bachelor’s in political science, I hope to continue my education and hope to work at a US embassy one day, or even become a US ambassador. Thanks for listening. Back to you, Alex.
– Gabi, I don’t know how you have time to do everything you do. I love that UNF has so much to offer you and your fellow students with award-winning club sports and intramurals, events like Market Days and cheering on their 19 Division-I sports teams. Who wouldn’t wanna be an Osprey? Keep up the great work.
Let’s meet Victor, a senior studying coastal and marine biology, being able to take advantage of UNF’s convenient location, just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway and the Saint Johns River makes it an ideal location for water lovers and those working on coastal resiliency. Victor, tell us more about UNF’s connection to Florida’s waterways.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hello, everyone. Growing up, I knew I wanted to be a marine biologist. But choosing what college I wanted to go to, was difficult for me. I grew up in Jacksonville, so I always had an appreciation for its waterways. As it turns out, UNF has a solid program for my major, making it the perfect spot for me to do what I want to do. Research is a major focus on the UNF campus and it’s something students can get involved in as early as their freshman year. For me, that means nights spent looking for eels, or collecting crabs. UNF’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway and Saint Johns River, provides a multitude of opportunities for students as part of their classes and when they’re out of class. As a biology major, I visit the local oyster reefs almost weekly for research that’s helping restore oyster reefs, fight erosion and rebuild fish populations. I have friends studying engineering, biology and physics, who also use the water access, including the thousand acres of wetlands that UNF owns on the Intracoastal Waterway. UNF is dedicated to exploring coastal resiliency, while fostering a healthy and strong undergraduate research program. Plus tons of students enjoy UNF’s close proximity to the ocean and the Saint Johns River. I often find myself taking a short drive to the beach and spending some well-deserved fun in the sun after a week of studying. Thanks to UNF, I now have a ton of experience in my field and I’m ready for graduate school and to work in conservation to help protect and restore our local waterways and habitats. Being able to work on projects that interest me with professors, who excel in their fields, all while having the flexibility to manage my classes, has been invaluable to me. Thank you and back to you, Alex.
– As someone who once lived in Jacksonville, I can attest to the beauty of its waterways. It truly is amazing here. Thank you, Victor, for doing your part to help restore our shorelines. Take care.
Let’s all welcome Miranda, a second-year student who also works full-time as a paraeducator. Thanks to EICC’s online classes and programs, she’s getting the best of both worlds, hands-on work experience and a high quality education. Tell us more about how EICC’s flexibility is making your dreams come true, Miranda. Take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Growing up, I always loved school and was determined to get good grades. My goal was college, but I put my plans on hold to help a family member in need. Finally, with encouragement from my parents, first-grade teacher, and help from a state grant, I was back in the classroom with hopes of having my own one day. Being a first-generation college student and working full-time as a paraeducator at an elementary school, I was terrified to start college and wondered, how would I fit it all in? EICC made my transition smooth. Thanks to concurrent enrollment classes I took while in high school, I was able to start my degree with 11 credits. For the courses I still needed, EICC provides a wide variety of online classes, and makes it easy to submit assignments from anywhere. That is why over half of EICC students take online classes. I’m earning my degree while I continue to gain the work experience I need for my bachelor’s in elementary education, and I’m showing my students it’s possible to work and attend college at the same time, which is very rewarding. I’m putting in the hard work, but I’ve had a lot of support too. My first grade teacher encouraged me to apply and pursue a state grant that helps paraeducators become teachers. EICC helped me, a nervous and unsure first-generation student, thrive in a college environment. I’m proud to say I have been on the President’s List three times, Dean’s List once, and was chosen to serve as a student marshal at commencement. EICC is the perfect place to start college. In this smaller community, you can take things at your pace and ease yourself into the next big step. Whether you take in-person classes or online like me, your instructors and fellow students will support you every step of the way. I hope you choose EICC. Thank you, Alex. It’s all yours.
– Your students are so lucky to have you, Miranda. It’s absolutely fantastic. You’re able to take your education and apply it to a job right away. Last year, more than 4,300 EICC students took a hundred percent of their classes online, earning a whopping 54,171 credit hours. It is clear, EICC has online learning down. Way to go, Miranda. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges offers an impressive range of experiences, programs and services, catering to high school students, recent graduates and adults returning to education. As the community’s college, their commitment to changing lives and building communities shines through the remarkable stories of these students. Thank you for sharing your stories of growth, determination, and success.
I can’t wait to introduce you to Lucas. He’s studying political science and taking the time to discover his interests. EICC is helping him determine his future while having fun along the way thanks to student clubs and activities. There are over 40 to choose from across all of EICC’s campuses, with many clubs tied into students’ area of study. Take it away, Lucas.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, everyone? In high school, I stressed a lot about the future and what I was gonna do after graduation. I knew I wanted a great career, but I didn’t know how to execute this plan. I soon realized that EICC was the best first step in figuring out what’s next. By doing my first two years at EICC, I’m taking care of my Gen Eds and in the process learning more about science, technology, leadership, and communication. I didn’t like high school, but college is totally different. I love that I can take classes based on my interests while earning credits towards my bachelor’s degree. I’m enjoying the same great education, expert faculty, long list of student services and activities, and spending way less than I would at a large university. When you aren’t sure what you want to do or be, that big university price tag is quite a risk. The advisors and instructors at EICC are great at guiding students. They help me choose and sign up for classes, figure out financial plans, and discover my passions. There are times that not knowing worries me, but my advisor is available to listen and talk things through. At EICC, I balance my classes and enjoy college life. I like motivating and uplifting others, which is the whole focus of the Super Awesomeness Club. We’re pretty active, holding food drives, movie nights, and rallying behind anyone needing support, and I still have time to pursue my athletic passion with power lifting and bodybuilding. I used to feel anxious about the future. Not anymore. The education, experiences, and support I’ve received have changed my outlook. Now I’m planning on transferring to the University of Iowa and earning a bachelor’s in political science. That’s all from me, Alex. Back to you.
– We love how EICC is helping you develop a strong body and mind, Lucas and the Super Awesomeness Club sounds, well, super awesome. I totally understand why it’s one of the largest clubs on campus. EICC fosters such a great sense of community and belonging. Thanks again, Lucas.
Things are heating up as we meet Emerson, a budding chef and baker. In the Culinary Arts program, EICC students can walk away with a certificate, diploma, or a degree depending on their path. Emerson managed to earn 14 college credits while still in high school thanks to EICC’s hands-on Career Academies. Tossin’ it to you, Emerson.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, everyone? When I was in high school, I did not know what I wanted to do with my life. I figured I’d stay local, take some Gen Ed classes, and then figure out what was next for me, but then something amazing happened. I discovered I could start my college education while being in high school, earning credits towards a certificate, degree or diploma in a high-demand career field. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges had just opened a new Career Academy building and they had it all, welding, auto, and my new-found passion, culinary arts. I started my senior year of high school and my first year of college at the same time. I took four courses in EICC’s brand new culinary arts lab. The instructors were incredibly supportive and encouraged us to jump in and learn hands-on. One highlight was working at an open house where we showcased our culinary skills to the community. I’ve also used my expertise working at a local bakery. It’s really exciting to take what I’ve learned and put it into practice. I earned enough credits in the Career Academy for a Culinary Arts certificate, and could have taken those skills right into the workforce. Instead, I chose to continue my education at EICC and earn a degree. EICC’s Career Academies help you build workplace skills, set career goals, and make the transition from high school to college smooth. Now that I am here, I enjoy many clubs and activities that bring students together. Whether it’s a game in the student center or food trucks parked outside. I’ve got big plans. After I graduate with my AAS degree, I plan to transfer to a university and study business management, then open my own bakery. I’m so thankful for EICC. Everyone wants a great college experience and I got that and more. Back to you, Alex.
– Nice, Emerson. Those kitchens are decked out better than a five star restaurant. EICC offers high school Career Academies in 16 disciplines, including auto, criminal justice, healthcare, and more. High school students can earn credentials and enter the workforce right away, or continue towards a degree. What a great way to save money and get a headstart on your education. Thanks again, Emerson.
To tell us more about being a first-generation student is Jesse, a humble alumnus whose story has come full circle. From an unsure student to a club advisor, Jesse’s patience and determination never let him down, and EICC provided the guidance and support he needed throughout the journey. Jesse, let’s hear it from you,
– Hola, Alex. Gracias. I’m a first-generation Mexican American citizen and proud graduate of Eastern Iowa Community College’s Liberal Arts program. Attending college wasn’t always a part of my master plan, but it was an amazing blessing in disguise. What started as something to rush through turned into some of the most impactful years of my life. As a first-generation college student, I didn’t have anyone at home to guide me in filling out the FAFSA or scholarship applications. No one to help me choose a program or classes. Many first-gen students share this experience and my tenacity to navigate the college landscape, and I did it, I even landed some scholarships. But life never stops and other challenges arose, making my goal of graduating increasingly difficult. Yet, I was lucky. I had amazing instructors who were engaging and insightful. They valued my opinion, pushed me to think outside the box, and encouraged me to persist and graduate. EICC’s small class sizes allowed me to make meaningful connections with instructors who really cared. They are masters of their craft and helped me discover my passion for education and teaching. It was here that I found myself and what I can contribute to the world. That is why I devote my career to mentor, guide and support students. I work as a Latinx outreach coordinator, helping seventh through 12th graders prep and plan for college and careers. I am also EICC’s League of United Latin American Citizens club advisor, where I encourage members to set goals and step into leadership roles. I coordinate events that showcase our culture, community, and all that we contribute. I assist students facing challenges similar to mine, guiding them along their own path. I want to be an ally to students like those who rallied around me while I was here. And that’s my story, Alex. Adios.
– Jesse, thank you for teaching us about LULAC, one of the most active clubs on campus and within the community. Students volunteer their time to help local organizations with a number of events and initiatives and even lend their voice to state meetings. It’s amazing the positive influence you have had on this community, Jesse. Thanks again.