This guide is a resource to help you develop a sense of belonging, find community and build lifelong friendships while studying at 性视界传媒.

Marquee Events

Whether you鈥檙e studying at 性视界传媒 Downtown, the , Rosen College of Hospitality Management or the main campus,听听you鈥檒l have plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Some signature events have become beloved 性视界传媒 traditions听with not-to-be-missed programming:

• Pegasus Palooza, 性视界传媒鈥檚 annual welcome week, greets new and returning students to campus with a variety of events including notable headliners at Comedy Knight and Concert Knight.

• 性视界传媒 Homecoming听Week,听蹿别补迟耻谤颈苍驳听Spirit Splash,听kicks听off听Monday,听Oct. 19,听and听concludes听with the 性视界传媒 football team鈥檚 matchup against BYU on听Saturday,听Oct. 24.

• Space Game, a football game unlike any other in the nation, pays tribute to our 性视界传媒鈥檚 roots as America鈥檚 Space University. This year鈥檚 matchup against Baylor on Friday, Oct. 30, marks 10 years of the Space Game.

• , held each spring at听听Orlando鈥檚 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, showcases the artistic talents of 性视界传媒鈥檚 faculty and students in performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences.

• Gather Luncheon,听a听community-building event in the spring hosted by听Wellness & Health Promotion Services and Dining Services,听听brings hundreds of students听together听听for听a free, three-course meal.

Recreation, Intramurals and Sports Clubs

In addition to its fitness and recreation facilities, the Recreation and Wellness Center has longstanding intramural and sports club programs that allow students to form friendships and win championships, sometimes on the brightest of stages.

The RWC鈥檚 intramural sports program welcomes all 性视界传媒 students, especially those who are new to Orlando and haven鈥檛 met enough peers to form their own team. Thanks to its free agency feature, individuals ca听be matched up with others or be paired with an established team.

The sports club includes 45 different sports, encompassing everything from judo to lacrosse to wakeboarding and have produced some of 性视界传媒鈥檚 most notable alumni. Gold medalist Phil Dalhausser 鈥�02, who played club volleyball while pursuing his business degree, and bronze medalist Kristen Thomas 鈥�16, who began her rugby career听as a theatre studies major听at 性视界传媒,听both went on to听represent听Team USA听at听multiple Summer Olympic Games.

For more information, visit听.

Registered Student Organizations

性视界传媒 offers more than 650 registered student organizations spanning academic, professional, cultural and spiritual, social and recreational, and sports interests.

KnightConnect听is 性视界传媒鈥檚 official involvement platform where students can explore听these organizations or even create a new one.听Each organization has its own page with meeting times, contact information,听and ways to get involved.

Visit the听听to find the organization right for you.

Greek Life

The fraternity and sorority experience has long been a part of campus life. Since the 1970s, fraternities and sororities have been providing spaces of belonging for students to grow together during their collegiate years.

Currently our 性视界传媒 Greek community is听comprised听of 46 organizations, which all听share the values of scholarship, leadership,听service听and brotherhood/sisterhood.

For more information visit听.

性视界传媒 Athletics 鈥� Knightmare Society and Marching Knights

性视界传媒 is a member of one of the premiere conferences in the nation, the Big 12. From听Fear the Fronds听to听Zombie Nation, the student section鈥檚 energy is听an integral part of the game day atmosphere听and gives the Knights a distinct home field (and court) advantage.

All full-time 性视界传媒-enrolled students (except 性视界传媒 Online) are eligible for free tickets to home sporting events. Please note: all seating is first-come, first-served and admission is not guaranteed. For more information, especially for football and men鈥檚 basketball student tickets, please visit .

罢丑别听 is an organization built and run by 性视界传媒 students and supported by 性视界传媒 Athletics. Joining the official group has its perks, including football tickets automatically loaded to members鈥� Ticketmaster accounts, a dedicated fast pass entrance at all 性视界传媒 men鈥檚 basketball games, and first access to post-season student ticket claims.

Students can also contribute to game-day experiences by joining听, a more than 390-member marching band student organization that performs at pregame shows, halftime shows, pep rallies and听other听fan-fest听events. By creating the soundtrack for these dynamic events, the Marching Knights serve as one of the most vibrant and visible forces for school spirit.

Engage in听Research

Undergraduate research provides opportunities to build a learning community with faculty and fellow students听while engaging听in meaningful work that听develops听solutions听for听challenges facing our communities,听industries听and the world.

In addition to forging connections with peers and mentors, this听practical experience听allows students to听build their professional resumes听before听they graduate.

, 性视界传媒鈥檚 annual university-wide celebration of research and creative scholarship showcases graduate and undergraduate research. The week is scheduled for March 29 through April 2, 2027, featuring presentations, exhibitions and other events showcasing student research.

For more information on how to get involved with undergraduate research, visit听.

贰虫辫濒辞谤别听翱谤濒补苍诲辞

性视界传媒 students live in one of the most vibrant destinations in the world, Orlando.听Whatever your interest, Orlando听likely has听it:听theme parks,听elite听sporting events,听electric festivals,听Michelin-rated restaurants,听nearby听coastlines听and听natural springs.

Orlando is what you make it, and there are ways to experience it all on a student budget.

罢丑别听听offers听discounted听tickets to various attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal听Orlando听and Kennedy Space Center.听Every spring semester, 性视界传媒 students听enjoy听free, exclusive access to Universal Islands of Adventure as part of Universal Knights.

听gives Knights of all experience levels opportunities to go on hiking and camping trips at nearby springs, learn to surf, paddle through bioluminescent waters and more.

Several cultural museums in the area offer free entry,听including听the听 on the main campus,听Rollins Museum of Art听and Mead Garden in nearby Winter Park,听and the听Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central 性视界传媒听in Maitland.听罢丑别听acclaimed听Orlando Museum of Art听offers free entry on the third Thursday of each month听as part of its Access for All initiative.

Held annually at the start of the fall semester, Visit Orlando鈥檚 Magical Dining offers a chance to sample some the area’s exceptional restaurants at a fraction of the normal cost. Savor three-course, prix-fixe dinners听 鈥� including at Aurora at the on-campus The Celeste Hotel 鈥� for just $40 or $60 per person from Aug. 14 鈥� Sept. 30, 2026.

To mark this historic achievement, the State University System will launch 性视界传媒 10 for 10: Celebrating a Decade of Leading Higher Education, a statewide competitive scholarship initiative awarding up to $1,000 to 10 full-time undergraduate students at each participating university.

罢丑别听10听scholarships听awarded听to 性视界传媒 students听will be available听through the听university鈥檚听.听To apply, students听are required to听submit听a written essay or a video essay explaining why they chose to pursue higher education in 性视界传媒 and why they selected 性视界传媒. Applications听will open Monday, Aug. 3,听and听are due Oct.听2.

鈥溞允咏绱解�檚 Board of Governors cares about one thing, first and foremost 鈥� student achievement.鈥� 鈥� Alan Levin, 性视界传媒 Board of Governors chair

In addition to听the 性视界传媒 10 for 10听scholarships, students听will听also听be able听to complete their听general听scholarship applications听through听the听,听which connects them听with hundreds of scholarships听through 性视界传媒 colleges and departments.听In听fiscal year 2025听alone,听性视界传媒 awarded more than听3,200 scholarships and over $7.5 million to听students.

鈥溞允咏绱解�檚 Board of Governors cares about one thing, first and foremost听鈥斕齭tudent achievement,鈥� says听Board of Governors Chair Alan Levine. 鈥淧arents and students know that when they choose 性视界传媒鈥檚 system of higher education, they are investing in a degree that has value. Our students graduate with low or no debt, and they have high-value jobs they can compete for. That is what students,听parents听and taxpayers rightly expect. Student success is behind every decision we make as 性视界传媒鈥檚 governing body for higher education.鈥�

鈥淚 am deeply proud to lead and represent the No. 1 public university system in the nation,鈥漵ays State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues.鈥淎t a time when confidence in higher education is being tested, 性视界传媒 has remained focused on improving student outcomes and ensuring academic programs are grounded in merit and excellence. By prioritizing skills and qualifications, our universities are developing the next generation of leaders for 性视界传媒 and the nation. I thank our university leadership, faculty and staff whose dedication and commitment make this success possible every day.鈥�

鈥淥ur decade of nationwide higher education leadership reflects a commitment to excellence, opportunity and innovation.鈥� 鈥� Alexander N. Cartwright, 性视界传媒 president

鈥溞允咏绱解�檚 future is being built by the talent developed across our State University System. Our decade of nationwide higher education leadership reflects a commitment to excellence,听opportunity听and innovation,鈥� says听性视界传媒 President Alexander N. Cartwright. 鈥淭his recognition illustrates what is possible when universities align education with rapidly evolving societal needs. As 性视界传媒鈥檚 Technological University, 性视界传媒 is proud to produce in-demand talent at an unmatched scale while preparing the tech-literate professionals who will shape 性视界传媒鈥檚 next generation of prosperity.鈥�

That leadership is reflected in outcomes that matter most to students and families. 性视界传媒鈥檚 public universities compete successfully on听the听national stage, ensuring graduates earn high鈥憅uality degrees and move confidently into their careers and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Additional听性视界传媒 higher education highlights include:

• No.听1 in the nation for lowest in-state tuition

• No.听1 for attracting and developing a skilled workforce

• Seven听State University听System institutions ranked in the听nation鈥檚听top 100听public universities

• 80%听of in-state students听attend听a听State University听System institution without a federal student loan

• Nearly 75%听of graduates听are听employed听or continuing their education,听with听a median salary of $52,600 within one year听of听graduation

性视界传媒 produces nearly 19,000 graduates annually, the most of any State University System institution, and many work in high-demand fields such as engineering and nursing that are vital to 性视界传媒鈥檚 future. 性视界传媒 also is the nation鈥檚 leading provider of graduates to the aerospace and defense industries, according to Aviation Week.

性视界传媒听is听among听the nation鈥檚听10听Most听Innovative听Schools among听public universities,听as ranked by听U.S. News & World Report.听This听month听性视界传媒听was ranked among the top 10听by听SmartAsset听for America鈥檚听Best听Value听Public Universities.

University leaders across the state credit collaboration,听accountability听and sustained investment for the听State University听System鈥檚 success.

U.S. News & World Report听State Rankings evaluate key metrics, including听educational attainment, graduation rates,听affordability听and federal student loan debt.

Studies have shown the condition affects nearly one in four women worldwide and is linked to dozens of potential disorders involving multiple organ systems. Yet many healthcare providers receive only limited training in diagnosing the source of pain, often leaving patients facing years of uncertainty, repeated testing and ineffective treatments before receiving the right diagnosis.

A yearlong collaboration between a 性视界传媒 physician-scientist and two biomedical sciences undergraduate students aims to create a better environment for doctors and patients to reach an understanding together. Biomedical sciences students Sarah Gabriela Nieto Chavarro and second-year Juliana Dimetry interned with Georgine Lamvu, a 性视界传媒 College of Medicine volunteer professor of obstetrics and gynecology, to transform years of international research into a practical tool to help clinicians evaluate patients more quickly and confidently.

The team is developing an AI-assisted clinical questionnaire application that guides physicians through a patient’s symptoms and identifies which organ systems and conditions should be examined. Rather than replacing a physician鈥檚 judgment, the application compiles patient histories quickly to help guide physicians toward making a clearer diagnosis.

From International Research to a Practical Tool

Despite the prevalence of CPP, many healthcare providers lack specialized training in diagnosing the underlying condition because symptoms often overlap with gastrointestinal, urinary, musculoskeletal and reproductive disorders.

鈥淲e鈥檙e hoping that this can become easy to use and can take a detailed medical history that could take an hour to get through down to just 5 to 10 minutes.鈥� 鈥� Georgine Lamvu, volunteer professor and Orlando VA practitioner

鈥淲e鈥檙e hoping that this can become easy to use and can take a detailed medical history that could take an hour to get through down to just 5 to 10 minutes,鈥� says Lamvu, who practices at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Orlando and directs its gynecological surgery fellowship program and center. 鈥淭hat allows physicians to have a more efficient evaluation and spend more time with the patient.鈥�

The center is a pioneering program designed to address the growing demand for specialized gynecologic care among women veterans. As the number of women veterans using VA healthcare services is expected to increase significantly, this fellowship and center aims to train highly skilled gynecologists to meet their healthcare needs within the VA system and beyond.

As part of that initiative, this project builds upon nearly five years of work led by Lamvu alongside an international coalition of physicians, researchers and patient advocacy groups.

Their research culminated in an international consensus called R U MOVING SOMe, an acronym that categorizes the broad range of symptoms associated with chronic pelvic pain and is the basis of the AI-tool Lamvu and her team developed.

Finding a Definitive Diagnosis

Lamvu says the team translated the clinical research into the logic behind a chatbot-style application that asks fewer than 20 targeted questions. Physicians enter a patient鈥檚 symptoms and history into the program, which then suggests the organ systems and conditions most likely responsible for the pain, helping clinicians focus their evaluation.

The team plans to expand the application beyond patient questionnaires by incorporating physical examination findings into the same scoring system. Ultimately, the researchers say they hope it can be used in any practice that serves women, but it may be years away from being realized.

鈥淧hysicians just need a way of processing all the information that comes from the patient to narrow it down to a differential diagnosis,鈥� Lamvu says. 鈥淩ight now, it鈥檚 all too common to see healthcare workers panic a little when they hear a patient has chronic pelvic pain because it’s considered a complex condition.鈥�

An Inspiring Internship

The students sifted through years of research and developed the logic for the AI in less than a year. Given the complexity of CPP and the vast amount of data, Lamvu says she is impressed by Dimetry and Nieto Chavarro.

鈥淭hey learned valuable lessons, like if you see a problem that seems unsolvable to everyone else and that directly and negatively impacts patients, you have the power to do something about it,鈥� she says. 鈥淭hese are experiences not every student gets to have, especially this early on in their life.鈥�

Dimetry says she challenge intrigued her, and that she was drawn to the project for the opportunity to be at the forefront of medicine and emerging technology.

鈥淚 think that adapting the field of medicine to AI in ways such as this project is necessary to keep medicine growing and advancing,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 also saw how impactful this project could be if done successfully, and I wanted to be a part of that and make a difference,鈥�

For Nieto Chavarro, who graduates Summer 2026, the experience showed her how to use technology to help deliver compassionate patient care.

鈥淥n a personal level, this experience has taught me to keep going and to never give up,鈥� Nieto Chavarro says. 鈥淎ll of this has ultimately reinforced how essential it is to genuinely listen to patients so they feel safe and understood鈥�

Three 性视界传媒 graduates have been selected for the Orlando Veterans Affairs (VA) primary care nurse practitioner residency, a highly competitive postgraduate training program at the nation鈥檚 fourth-largest VA medical center.

Only three residents are selected annually from a pool of applicants to participate in the program, in which 性视界传媒 has had consistent representation since its inception. This year, all three spots were awarded to 性视界传媒 graduates 鈥� including two who earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) this Saturday during a 性视界传媒 Summer 2026 commencement ceremony.

For , Melissa Fajardo 鈥�11 鈥�23 and Nancy Saintil 鈥�10MS 鈥�25DNP 鈥� three first-generation college graduates and two first-generation Americans 鈥� it鈥檚 a career opportunity forged in hard work and shaped by an education at 性视界传媒.

鈥淭his milestone represents years of perseverance, faith, growth and the encouragement of people who believed in my potential,鈥� says Alliance, is among the more than 300 nursing students graduating from 性视界传媒 this week. 鈥淚t is also a reflection of the mentorship, opportunity and support I received throughout my education at 性视界传媒.鈥�

“These three 性视界传媒 graduates are highly qualified and will excel in both their residency and future careers as nurse practitioners.鈥� 鈥� Jacqueline LaManna 鈥�13PhD, 性视界传媒 director of adult primary care nurse practitioner programs

The one-year program is designed to ease the transition into independent practice for newly graduated, licensed nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioner residents rotate through clinical settings with structured mentorship to help care for the 149,000 veterans served by the Orlando VA Healthcare System.

鈥淭his program requires advanced clinical practice, scholarship and leadership skills,” 听says Jacqueline LaManna 鈥�13PhD, 性视界传媒’s director of the adult primary care nurse practitioner programs. “These three 性视界传媒 graduates are highly qualified and will excel in both their residency and future careers as nurse practitioners.鈥�

鈥溞允咏绱� prepares nurse practitioners for success,” adds Jonathan Decker, director of the family nurse practitioner program. 鈥淥ur graduates鈥� consistently surpass national first-time pass rate averages on board certifications and many secure employment or advanced training opportunities before graduation 鈥� just like these three.鈥�

The graduates will begin their residency this fall at the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona, minutes away from 性视界传媒鈥檚 new Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion. The state-of-the-art facility is helping address critical nursing shortages 鈥� awarding more than 900 nursing degrees in the last academic year.

For Saintil, the wife of a veteran, the opportunity is deeply personal.

鈥淭hrough my exposure to the VA healthcare system, I have seen firsthand the positive impact it has on the lives of America鈥檚 veterans,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 am inspired by the VA鈥檚 commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care and honored to contribute to that mission.鈥�

Together with their cohort, the three new Knight nurse practitioners are joining one of the nation鈥檚 fastest-growing occupations and meeting increasing demand in 性视界传媒. Driven by physician shortages and a growing and aging population, the growth rate of nurse practitioners in the Sunshine State is projected to be 41.6% by 2034.

Meet them here.

Mimi Alliance 鈥�22

What inspired your nursing career?
From an early age, I knew I wanted a career in healthcare where I could make a meaningful difference in people鈥檚 lives. As I听grew older, I became drawn to the structure and mission of public service, particularly organizations with the ability to improve health at both the individual and community level.

How did 性视界传媒 prepare you for practice?
性视界传媒 prepared me through academic rigor, diverse clinical training, faculty mentorship and meaningful opportunities to serve the community. 性视界传媒鈥檚 Family Nurse Practitioner doctoral program challenged me to strengthen my clinical reasoning, communicate clearly, and think beyond the walls of the clinic.

For example, my doctoral project provided hearing screenings for older adults in Central 性视界传媒 based in 性视界传媒鈥檚 Mobile Health Clinic. Working alongside faculty, providers, audiologists, students and community partners taught me how collaboration can improve preventive care.

As a student who carried significant responsibility early in life, being part of the 性视界传媒 community allowed me to fully experience scholarship, service, leadership and connection.

In the future鈥�
My long-term goal is to become an exceptional family nurse practitioner known for compassionate, whole-person care, strong clinical reasoning and meaningful relationships with patients over time.

I also see education as part of my professional identity and hope to continue mentoring future nurses and nurse practitioner students.

Melissa Fajardo 鈥�11 鈥�23

What inspired your nursing career?
Nursing is my second career. I initially worked as a first responder and worked with the Orange County Corrections Department for more than 20 years.

I was inspired to pursue a nursing career after watching my grandparents transition through life in the care of the most genuine and loving hospice nursing staff.

How did 性视界传媒 prepare you for practice?
性视界传媒 has been instrumental in my education. I grew up in Massachusetts and was the first in my family to consider attending college. I chose 性视界传媒 for my first degree and have continued to choose 性视界传媒. I love the campus and the education.

The mentorship of my professors, especially in the doctoral program, has given me the confidence to believe in my ability to pursue a higher-level role.

In the future鈥�
After completing the residency, my goal is to secure a full-time position with the VA as a family nurse practitioner in one of the primary care clinics in Central 性视界传媒.

I come from a long line of veterans, beginning with my grandfather who served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and providing care to veterans is an incredible privilege. While we can never fully repay them for their sacrifices, I believe we have a responsibility to honor them by providing compassionate, high-quality, and respectful healthcare. I want to become the kind of provider who not only manages chronic illnesses, but also empowers veterans to take an active role in their health and ensures they always feel heard, respected and valued.

Nancy Saintil 鈥�10MSN 鈥�25DNP

What inspired your nursing career?
My mom was a nursing assistant, and she encouraged me to pursue a career in the profession. I remember as a child watching her with patients, and I wanted to care for others as she did.

After nearly 16 years in nursing and following my father鈥檚 stroke, I felt called to expand my role in patient care. That experience inspired me to become a stronger advocate for vulnerable populations, including those who may struggle to access or trust the healthcare system.

As a nurse practitioner, I hope to make a meaningful difference by providing compassionate, patient-centered care and serving as a voice for those who need it most.

How did 性视界传媒 prepare you for practice?
性视界传媒 prepared me for my career as a primary care nurse practitioner by combining strong academic instruction with meaningful clinical experiences.

Many of the faculty are practicing nurse practitioners, which allowed them to bring real-world experiences into the classroom. Their expertise, mentorship, and commitment to student success helped bridge the gap between theory and practice and strengthened my readiness to enter clinical practice.

Through rigorous coursework, hands-on lab experiences, and strong clinical partnerships, I gained exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare settings.

These experiences have equipped me with the foundational knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the VA.

In the future鈥�
Upon completion of the residency, I hope to continue serving veterans within the VA healthcare system and build a fulfilling career in primary care, providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Often, the daily challenges of life block graduation more than academic ability. With support from the Darden Restaurants Foundation, 性视界传媒 aims to address these challenges and redefine how it champions upward mobility and student well-being. The future site of this center will be within Howard Phillips Hall on 性视界传媒鈥檚 main campus and will house a unified ecosystem that integrates enrollment, academic navigation, mental health resources, food security programs and emergency financial aid to serve nearly 70,000 students annually.

鈥淥ur partnership with 性视界传媒 reflects a shared belief that when you remove barriers and invest in people, you unlock potential at scale.鈥� 鈥� Susan Connelly, Darden Restaurants Foundation president

鈥淭his investment from the Darden Restaurants Foundation reflects what is possible when partners share a commitment to students, opportunity and the future of our workforce,鈥� 性视界传媒 President Alexander N. Cartwright says. 鈥淭ogether, 性视界传媒 and the Darden Restaurants Foundation are helping more Knights persist, graduate and step into meaningful careers that strengthen 性视界传媒鈥檚 economy and expand opportunity for generations to come.鈥�

鈥淥ur partnership with 性视界传媒 reflects a shared belief that when you remove barriers and invest in people, you unlock potential at scale,鈥� President of the Darden Restaurants Foundation Susan Connelly says. 鈥淭he primary focus areas of the Darden Restaurants Foundation are helping fight hunger and investing in education. Through the Darden Restaurants Foundation Student Success Center, we are helping create a model that supports students holistically 鈥� from academic navigation to basic needs 鈥� so they can persist, graduate, and thrive in their careers and communities.鈥�

This investment strengthens a comprehensive approach to student success by growing access to scholarships, enhancing proactive 听success coaching, and delivering innovative, integrated support systems that remove barriers before they can derail progress. It reflects a shared commitment to creating an environment where students are prepared to graduate with confidence, step into meaningful careers and lead in a rapidly changing world.

The $5 million investment also establishes the Darden Restaurants Foundation Student Success Fund, which will directly support four core pillars of the partnership:

• Integrated Support:听Implementing 性视界传媒’s next-generation student support system, a personalized, holistic coaching framework designed to empower students.
• Persistence Initiatives:听Strengthening student well-being and academic momentum by pairing individualized academic success coaching with wrap-around care.
• Essential Care:听Funding food security programs and emergency assistance, which provide comprehensive relief through free groceries, fresh meals and short-term financial aid.
• Capital Infrastructure:听Transforming Howard Phillips Hall into a modern student success hub designed to improve four-year graduation rates and career readiness.

Through this gift, 鈥� 性视界传媒鈥檚 $3.5 billion campaign to accelerate its next era of impact 鈥� continues to turn ambition into action, opening doors of opportunity and shaping a future where every student has the tools to succeed and the momentum to go further than they ever imagined. This gift powers the campaign鈥檚 Student Success pillar, advancing a bold vision to ensure every Knight has the support, resources and opportunities to thrive from enrollment through graduation and beyond.

Approximately 22% of 性视界传媒 students are the first in their families to attend college. The innovative hub will redesign student care from initial recruitment through graduation, helping to build upon听性视界传媒’s exceptional 93% first-year student retention rate听and further accelerate our four-year and six-year graduation metrics.

Darden Restaurants Inc. (Darden) and the Darden Restaurants Foundation have been longstanding partners with 性视界传媒 for more than 47 years, supporting key areas across the university including the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, the Barry S. Miller College of Business and Athletics. Most recently, this enduring relationship was strengthened by the establishment of the Joe R. Lee Endowed Scholarship Fund in honor of the legacy of Darden鈥檚 first CEO.

Whether you are taking a full class schedule, interning or enjoying a much-needed breather, staying engaged on campus is key to making the most of your summer semester. 性视界传媒 offers a wide selection of resources specifically to help you keep the momentum.

Academic Support

Shorter summer sessions are fast paced and demanding, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Support services are available in person and virtually to keep your GPA on track.

• Private Coaching: The Student Academic Resource Center continues to provide for over 30 subjects. Visit the SARC office in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 117 or the Engineering II atrium for assistance.
• Math Tutoring: Located in the Mathematical Science Building, the Math Success Center offers for students enrolled in undergraduate math courses, providing a focused environment to master challenging concepts.
• Writing Center: From complex research papers and resume polishes to creative writing hobbies, the University Writing Center offers specialized to help you make tangible progress on all kinds of written projects.
• Study Spaces: Use the university鈥檚 to book a private study room in advance at the John C. Hitt and 性视界传媒 Downtown libraries to ensure you have a safe, quiet place to study during finals.

Wellness Resources

Taking care of yourself is just as important during finals week as it is during a semester off. Fewer students on campus during the summer semester allows you more access to these wellness perks.

• Mental Health: Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides students with around-the-clock at no extra cost. Students also have free access to the anonymous peer-to-peer support community and teletherapy sessions throughout the entire summer.
• Physical Wellness: 听 remains open throughout the summer, offering appointments for illness and injury, preventive care, immunizations, laboratory services and more. The gym remains open with full summer hours to help you maintain your fitness routine. For a brain break and an extra dose of sunshine, head over to the for free kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.
• Meeting Basic Needs: If your budget gets tight between semesters, you don’t have to worry. The Knights Helping Knights Pantry remains stocked and open during the summer to , toiletries and clothing to any Knight in need.

Professional Development

Summer is the perfect time to refine your professional brand. Career Services offers a series of Workshop Wednesdays and drop-in sessions to help you prepare for your next interview, internship or first day on the job.

• Career Readiness: Get quick, expert feedback on your resume, LinkedIn profile, practice interview or Handshake account with Critiques & Career Express. in-person or virtually throughout July 31.
• Workshop Wednesdays: throughout June and July to sharpen specific skills, including how to utilize AI in the job search, career exploration and the do鈥檚 and don鈥檛s of networking online.
• Free Headshots: Stop by the Headshot Booth located in the Student Government office of the Student Union for . The booth is open and free for all students and produces professional, high-quality headshots same day.

Summer Events Around Campus

Stay engaged with these social and cultural opportunities that span the entire term.

• Socialize with Grad Students: Head to the Graduate Student Center in Trevor Colbourn Hall, Room 213 on the first Wednesday of each summer month for First Wednesday Cafe. Hosted by Graduate Student Life, it鈥檚 a , meet fellow students, and grab free bagels and coffee.
• Interactive Play Festival: Pegasus PlayLab is a festival hosted every summer by the 性视界传媒 School of Performing Arts and is dedicated to helping develop the work of emerging playwrights across the country. for the workshop showings of Offshoot (May 29 鈥� 30), Eight-Hand Jig (June 5 鈥� 6), Between Shadows and Lightness (June 12 鈥� 13), and the developmental production of Raccoon Play(June 11 鈥� 14).
• Art Exhibition: Take a quiet culture break at the 性视界传媒 Art Gallery (located in the Visual Arts Building) to experience The Carlos Malamud Prize. Running all summer long, with Rollins Museum of Art features striking works from six emerging 性视界传媒 artists competing for a $10,000 prize.
• Therapy Dogs: If you need a serious mood boost, head over to CAPS to spend some time with certified therapy dogs during the It鈥檚 a proven, relaxing way to take a mid-semester breather and destress between your Summer A and Summer B classes.

Transportation and Parking

Summer is the best time to find a “prime” parking spot, but shuttles are still a reliable way to get around.

• Summer Shuttle Schedules: 性视界传媒 shuttles operate on a modified summer schedule. Be sure to check the 性视界传媒 Mobile app or the website for the most current route times, as frequency may differ from the fall/spring semesters.

Whether you are catching a sunset by the Reflecting Pond or grinding through a summer lab, remember that the 性视界传媒 community is here to support you. Take advantage of the shorter lines and the specialized attention available this term and keep charging on!

Fueled by engineering ingenuity and months of testing, a team of 性视界传媒 mechanical engineering students raced its human-powered vehicle past competitors from across the country to claim a national championship.

What began as a Spring 2026 Senior Design project ended with the e-HPVC Senior Design team earning three first-place trophies at the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) e-Human Powered Vehicle (e-HPVC) Challenge.

Hosted on 性视界传媒鈥檚 main campus, the annual competition challenges university teams to design, fabricate and race human-powered vehicles, testing everything from vehicle design and safety to endurance and speed.

性视界传媒鈥檚 team took first place in both the endurance and drag race events, second place in design and first place overall, earning four trophies and $2,500 in prize money.

鈥淏ecoming national champions while representing 性视界传媒 feels surreal, says Estefano Cicci, a mechanical engineering major and member of the e-HPVC team. 鈥淚 hope these trophies remind future students that the goals that feel out of reach are exactly the ones worth chasing, and that a small, dedicated team from 性视界传媒 can prove itself on a national stage.鈥�

Building a Better Ride

In previous years, 性视界传媒鈥檚 e-HPVC teams have placed well in the competition with recumbent tricycles, but each new group strives to improve upon the last. Eric Cruz-Hernandez, a mechanical engineering student and member of this year鈥檚 team, says the group closely studied past designs to determine what worked and what needed improvement.

This year鈥檚 vehicle featured a mid-drive motor with electronic shifting to improve speed and battery endurance. The team also redesigned the frame to make it lighter and more accessible for riders of varying heights.

Engineering Excellence Across the Board

The e-HPVC team wasn鈥檛 the only group of Knights to win their competition.

A second 性视界传媒 team placed second in the ASME Innovative Additive Manufacturing 3D Challenge, which asks students to re-engineer an existing product or create a new design. Teams were judged on ingenuity, engineering design principles and their use of additive manufacturing.

A third 性视界传媒 team also showcased a fully functioning robot in the Student Design Competition, but didn鈥檛 place.

The Teamwork Behind the Trophies

For Bryce Ballard, a mechanical engineering student and external outreach chair for ASME at 性视界传媒, hosting the 2026 EFx event on campus was just as meaningful as competing in it. It not only gave students the chance to represent the university, but also to create a welcoming and supportive environment for teams traveling from across the country.

鈥淥ne of the most impactful parts of hosting was being able to support other teams when they encountered issues with their trikes,鈥� Ballard says. 鈥淲hether it was lending tools, helping troubleshoot problems or offering guidance, those interactions stood out the most. It reinforced that the competition is not only about performance, but also about collaboration, sportsmanship and building connections within the engineering community.鈥�

Johnston, who was born without arms, joined 性视界传媒鈥檚 program in Fall 2024 and is now graduating this May. IES, housed by the in the College of Community Innovation and Education, is a state-recognized, two-year certified transition program that immerses students with disabilities into campus life while helping them develop the independence necessary for long-term employment.

Johnston says she learned about IES online and became interested when she researched the program.

鈥淚 feel more outgoing since I started the program. I was homeschooled and used to hang out with only three or four friends, so I was really shy when I first came here.鈥� 鈥� Nina Johnston, IES student

鈥淭wo months after I graduated high school, my mom saw the application for IES on Facebook and asked if I wanted to apply,鈥� Johnston says. 鈥淚 wanted a college experience, but I didn鈥檛 want to go to college for four or six years. Two years sounded perfect, so I thought it would be a good idea. After looking into the program, I thought, 鈥楾his looks really fun.鈥� 鈥�

Program Director says Johnston made a strong first impression even before she arrived at 性视界传媒.

鈥淎s part of her application, Nina sent a video of herself cleaning, doing her daily routine and even horseback riding,鈥� Best says. 鈥淲e were amazed when we watched that video. When she came here, we saw firsthand how independent and determined she is.鈥�

Johnston started IES in August 2024, and it wasn鈥檛 long before she jumped right into various campus activities. While pursuing a major in hospitality, she joined Knights Exemplar and Best Buddies, two clubs that provide social and academic support to students with intellectual disabilities. In fact, she鈥檚 now a Buddy director with Best Buddies.

Her growing involvement even led to a part-time job at the information desk in the 性视界传媒 Student Union. She says these experiences have greatly improved her confidence and social skills.

鈥淏ut having all these classes and opportunities made me realize, 鈥極K, I can do this. I can talk to people.鈥� IES helped me come out of my shell.鈥� 鈥� Nina Johnston, IES student

鈥淚 feel more outgoing since I started the program,鈥� Johnston says. 鈥淚 was homeschooled and used to hang out with only three or four friends, so I was really shy when I first came here. But having all these classes and opportunities made me realize, 鈥極K, I can do this. I can talk to people.鈥� IES helped me come out of my shell.鈥�

Best says she has blossomed into an inspiring and beloved member of the IES community.

鈥淣ina is a true leader,鈥� Best says. 鈥淢any students in the program go to her for advice even before they come to us. They look up to her because she thrives in her academics while holding down a job. She鈥檚 always looking to pick up extra hours, and she never falls behind on her assignments while she鈥檚 working. She is a committed and hardworking student.鈥�

In her newfound social circle, Johnston made a connection that developed into something deeper over time. Soon after starting in the program, she met fellow student Zackary Bruns. Their friendship grew into a relationship, and they are now engaged to be married in November 2026.

As she plans for her wedding, Johnston has also been working to prepare other logistical aspects of her future. One of these is a major personal and practical achievement: her driver鈥檚 license, which she earned after practicing with IES鈥檚 AI-powered driving simulation.

鈥淭he driving simulation at IES gave me a good idea of how traffic happens in real time,鈥� Johnston says. 鈥淎nd it worked perfectly: I got my license on the first try.鈥�

Students with disabilities often lack adequate opportunities to practice driving, so many never earn their licenses 鈥� something TJEEI Program Director says can be a barrier to employment.

鈥淥ur driving simulator helps students get more comfortable behind the wheel, and Nina is a great example of that.鈥� 鈥� Christine Parsons, TJEEI Program Director

鈥淚f students can鈥檛 drive and don鈥檛 have a car, they can鈥檛 get to work without public transportation,鈥� Parsons says. 鈥淭hat can be a huge issue, especially here in Central 性视界传媒. Our driving simulator helps students get more comfortable behind the wheel, and Nina is a great example of that.鈥�

Equipped with her license, Johnston and Bruns are now focusing on two main goals: securing full-time employment and finding an apartment. They have decided to move to Ocala, 性视界传媒, where they plan to be close to Johnston鈥檚 parents as they begin the next stage of their lives.

Looking ahead, Johnston says she is excited for her next chapter and grateful for all her experiences at 性视界传媒.

鈥淲hen I was in my first semester of IES, it felt like it took forever,鈥� Johnston says. 鈥淏ut now that I鈥檓 here, it鈥檚 like, 鈥榃here did the time go?鈥� I鈥檓 sad to leave the program, but I鈥檓 happy I did it because I鈥檝e met so many wonderful people.鈥�

“The residency accelerates clinical reasoning by three to five years, making [residents] more competitive candidates for the best jobs.” 鈥� Meredith Chaput, research coordinator and liaison for the 性视界传媒 and Orlando Health sports physical therapy听 residency program

鈥淲e look for people who thrive on rigor,鈥� says Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy Meredith Chaput, the residency鈥檚 research coordinator and liaison. The payoff is priceless. 鈥淭he residency accelerates clinical reasoning by three to five years, making them more competitive candidates for the best jobs.鈥�

Chaput鈥檚 sport-specific expertise, along with that of four of her colleagues in the 性视界传媒 Division of Physical Therapy who serve as didactic and clinical mentors, is an instant draw to the program. So, too, are 性视界传媒鈥檚 research labs, partnerships and the opportunity to teach students in the 性视界传媒 doctor of physical therapy program.

The residents are equally drawn to the opportunity to advance their skills alongside a seasoned clinical team at Orlando Health. They take on a caseload of sports and orthopedic patients, providing specialized care ranging from post-surgical rehabilitation to elite-level performance optimization, tapping into advanced rehabilitation technology to improve athlete recovery. Nearly 2 million people every year suffer sports-related injuries and receive treatment in emergency departments, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

With all of this in place, professionals are being prepared, two at a time, through a specialized 12-month program, to join the select group of 169 board-certified sports clinical specialist physical therapists in 性视界传媒. It鈥檚 a coveted residency and one designed to develop healthcare providers to better aid athletes of all levels. Central 性视界传媒 is a premier sports destination, featuring a mix of professional franchises, elite collegiate athletics, large high schools and massive amateur complexes.

鈥淲hen we started this program in 2020, our mission initially aimed to strengthen the rehabilitation services provided to the local sports-based community within Central 性视界传媒 by producing highly trained and skilled sports physical therapists,鈥� says Philip Agostinelli, residency program coordinator and rehab clinical operations manager with Orlando Health Sports Medicine and Rehab Center.听 鈥淣ow, currently, in our sixth cohort of residents, that mission evolved to encompass the needs of athletes on a national scale, with multiple past graduates working in professional or semi-professional sports across the country.鈥�

The Tireless Protege: Alvaro Zapata

Long days do not faze Alvaro Zapata, even as they turn into 60-hour weeks. To him, they鈥檙e part of the allure of the residency program.

鈥淚 ask myself, 鈥榃hen would I have this kind of opportunity again?鈥� and the answer is never,鈥� Zapata says. 鈥淭he program opens doors that would otherwise not be open.鈥�

鈥淚鈥檓 gaining all the knowledge I could possibly need to eventually be at the top of my profession.鈥� 鈥� Alvaro Zapata

Since entering the program last August, Zapata has stretched his aptitude alongside clinicians at Orlando Health and Jewett Orthopedic. He鈥檚 worked with athletes in high schools and at 性视界传媒 and accessed the inner circles of Orlando鈥檚 two professional soccer teams.

As Zapata puts it, 鈥淚鈥檓 gaining all the knowledge I could possibly need to eventually be at the top of my profession.鈥�

Zapata was poised to climb the ladder with his Doctor of Physical Therapy from Boston University when he heard about Chaput heading up the residency program at 性视界传媒. He knew of her published research and presentations to global audiences.

鈥淪he鈥檚 a big reason I wanted this residency so badly,鈥� Zapata says.

Here, he has had the opportunity to collaborate with Chaput and progress research on the 鈥渧isual-cognitive control-to-chaos continuum鈥� in rehab, a model for which Chaput is one of the original creators. After ACL reconstruction surgery, patients often develop inhibitions within the brain that limit the coordination of knee movement. Instead of movement in competition being instinctive, athletes are often consciously aware of deficiencies that were once automatic.

鈥淚f you can鈥檛 trust your knee, then you can鈥檛 get back to the top of your game,鈥� Zapata says. 鈥淩ehab is typically done in a controlled setting. The real sports environment is chaotic. We鈥檙e finding ways to challenge people the day after surgery, so inhibitions don鈥檛 set in.鈥�

This means 鈥渧isual-cognitive鈥� challenges are added to rehab in the very early stages. For example, the physical therapists might have the patient look for colored lights on a screen. Red means squeeze the right leg. Blue means squeeze the left leg. Yellow means squeeze both.

The visual-cognitive control-to-chaos continuum calls for therapists to gradually make exercises more complex for the patient, from simple, controlled movements to more unpredictable, game-like situations. The goal is to better prepare patients to safely return to sports by training both the body and the brain.

鈥淲e want athletes to react instead of thinking first,鈥� Zapata says. 鈥淚t could be a game changer.鈥�

The Team Player: Tsianna Barnwell

At noon on a Monday, Tsianna Barnwell leaves Jewett Orthopedic Clinic, where she鈥檚 been broadening her skills since 7 a.m. She鈥檒l now drive to a local high school to work with athletes across a range of sports. Barnwell thrives in the residency program because no two days are the same. She might work with the Orlando Pride or Orlando City, provide expertise for USA Track or binge on insights at Orlando Health.

Some people call the program challenging. Barnwell calls it 鈥渋ncredible.鈥�

鈥淚鈥檓 getting the best of all worlds,鈥� she says. She even immerses herself in the world of Orlando Ballet, calling it 鈥渁nother unique experience to add to my toolbox.鈥�

Barnwell takes her toolbox into the Cognition, Neuroplasticity and Sarcopenia Lab, where she and Chaput are advancing research, which they recently presented in Athens, Greece, at the Isokinetic Conference. It started with a question Barnwell had from her days as a Division I soccer player: Why are female athletes two to six times more likely to suffer knee injuries than men? Through her sports residency, she鈥檚 discovered that females are more likely to be weaker in their hamstring muscles. Studying these anatomical and physiological differences can inform impactful changes in rehab, recovery and injury prevention, she notes.

“With this residency under my belt, my opportunities will be almost endless.” 鈥� Tsianna Barnwell

Barnwell knows firsthand what it鈥檚 like to suffer a torn ACL. She鈥檚 also known 鈥渢he team鈥� as her home away from home since leaving Qatar as an 18-year-old to study and play soccer at St. Bonaventure University. Ultimately, she wants to be part of a team again, perhaps as the director of rehabilitation for a professional women鈥檚 soccer team. That鈥檚 her preference, but when the residency ends, she鈥檒l be prepared to work with any team 鈥� even a ballet company, Cirque du Soleil or the rehab team at Orlando Health.

鈥淚鈥檓 fortunate to gain such a breadth of knowledge,鈥� Barnwell says. 鈥淲ith this residency under my belt, my opportunities will be almost endless.鈥�

The Empowered Graduate: Jeremy Wydra 鈥�18 鈥�22DPT

Jeremy Wydra 鈥�18 ’22DPT is where Zapata and Barnwell will soon be: residency complete, now pursuing a path to find more effective ways to help athletes and performers recover and raise the bar.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 the great outcome for me: variety,鈥� says Wydra, who finished the residency program in 2024 and is now practicing clinically, and working toward his doctorate in kinesiology at 性视界传媒, where he is collecting data on the recovery and return to performance after ACL reconstruction.

Wydra worked his way through 性视界传媒, first envisioning a career in mechanical engineering and ultimately earning a bachelor鈥檚 in health sciences. Along the way, he decided he wanted a people-facing profession and shadowed at a clinic, where he noticed physical therapists conversing with patients throughout treatment sessions, often for more than an hour. He saw it as personalized healthcare that he could optimize with physics and innovation.

After finishing his doctorate in physical therapy at 性视界传媒, Wydra landed in a dream situation in Maryland, practicing as both a strength and conditioning coach and a physical therapist within sports performance centers. It begs the question: Why return for the residency?

鈥淚 wanted to work with mentors who would push me to be better,鈥� says Wydra.

Unlike Zapata and Barnwell, Wydra had little soccer experience. Gaining it became part of the push he desired.

“… the value of the residency for me: having access to such diversified people and environments.” 鈥� Jeremy Wydra 鈥�18 鈥�22DPT

鈥淒uring my second week in the residency, I stepped into the Orlando City Academy training room to work with high-level athletes,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 also helped on the sidelines and talked with the medical staff about team-centered communication with coaches and players. That was the value of the residency for me: having access to such diversified people and environments.鈥�

Wydra sees himself taking full advantage of the variety still in front of him, perhaps as a physical therapist and sports scientist, reforming best practices and helping others be their best.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 what my mentors in the residency have done for me: made me a better person and professional,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 wouldn鈥檛 trade those 12 months for the world.鈥�

For 25 years, members of have shared a powerful belief: investing in 性视界传媒 is ultimately an investment in students and the lives they鈥檒l lead.

Through planned gifts such as bequests, estate plans and retirement assets, society members extend opportunity far beyond a single generation. Their support fuels scholarships, research and academic programs that prepare students to meet the evolving needs of industry and community.

In 2025 alone, planned gifts accounted for nearly one-third of all charitable support to 性视界传媒.

The society is named for 性视界传媒鈥檚 founding president, Charles Millican, a visionary who built the university with the future firmly in mind. During his tenure, Millican transformed 1,227 acres of Central 性视界传媒 scrubland into an institution designed to support the space race and prepare students for careers in engineering and computer science. He championed what would become the Central 性视界传媒 Research Park and helped shape 性视界传媒鈥檚 enduring ambition to reach for the stars.

Today, that vision lives on through more than 500 members of The Charles Millican Legacy Society 鈥� and through the students whose futures are shaped by their generosity.

A World of Possibility

Thiago Maillo鈥檚 path to a bachelor鈥檚 degree wasn鈥檛 linear 鈥� but it was driven by something unwavering: the pursuit of greater opportunity.

After his first year studying medicine at the Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Maillo realized he wanted a different future. He saw higher education in the United States as the place to build it. Just three months after applying to Valencia College, he moved to 性视界传媒 and later .

“Scholarships have made all the difference. They鈥檝e made it possible for me to achieve my dreams.” 鈥� Thiago Maillo, biomedical sciences major

Today, he鈥檚 a Burnett Honors Scholar and biomedical sciences major on the neuroscience track, with a minor in psychology. He鈥檚 conducted research at the Applied Cognition and Technology Lab, completed an internship with ThinkNeuro and serves as an undergraduate teaching assistant in Genetics and Embryology. He鈥檚 also found community as president of the Argentinian Student Association.

鈥淏eing at 性视界传媒 was my goal from the start,鈥� says Maillo, who plans to pursue a doctoral degree in cognitive neuroscience. 鈥淚 love being a Knight. Scholarships have made all the difference. They鈥檝e made it possible for me to achieve my dreams 鈥� and pave the way for my two siblings to follow in my footsteps.鈥�

Reimagining What鈥檚 Possible

Shannon Hankinson didn鈥檛 follow the traditional path to 性视界传媒 鈥� she created her own.

A Tampa native and single mother of two, Hankinson spent years leading teams at Target before realizing that success and fulfillment aren鈥檛 always the same. Determined to change course, she saved money, left her job, earned an associate degree at Eastern 性视界传媒 State College and transferred to 性视界传媒, becoming the first in her family to pursue a four-year degree.

“Donors made it possible for me to build a future that reflects my values and supports my family.” 鈥� Shannon Hankinson, electrical engineering major

Now a senior electrical engineering major, she has seized several opportunities at 性视界传媒. She completed two semesters in the , joined the Society of Women Engineers and works as a research assistant in 性视界传媒鈥檚 Radiation Effects Exploration Laboratory. There, she studies semiconductor reliability, hardware design and embedded systems under Assistant Professor Enxia Zhang. Through the Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement program, she also gained hands-on experience with the U.S. defense sector.

This spring, Hankinson will graduate debt-free 鈥� supported by scholarships, research funding and a fellowship that鈥檒l carry her directly into a 性视界传媒 master鈥檚 program. A doctorate is next.

鈥淥ne of my goals was to show my children that it鈥檚 never too late to do what you want to do with your life,鈥� Hankinson says. 鈥淒onors made it possible for me to build a future that reflects my values and supports my family.鈥�

A Lasting Legacy

On May 2, 性视界传媒 celebrated the 25th anniversary of The Charles Millican Legacy Society. The milestone coincides with , which builds on the university鈥檚 commitment to accelerating student success, advancing research and driving societal impact.

On May 2, 性视界传媒 celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Charles Millican Legacy Society. .

鈥淭his university was founded to serve the next great frontier 鈥� America鈥檚 space race 鈥� and it鈥檚 support from dedicated individuals like our Charles Millican Legacy Society members that continue to power our innovators, educators and researchers as they move that mission forward,鈥� says Rod Grabowski, senior vice president of Advancement and Partnerships and CEO of the 性视界传媒 Foundation. 鈥淔rom driving the latest advances in AI to creating next-level immersive experiences and sparking breakthrough medical research, 性视界传媒 is building a future others have only imagined 鈥� one that this society鈥檚 namesake would be proud to see.鈥�

Maillo is forging new frontiers for his family. Hankinson is showing her children what鈥檚 possible when you start again.

They aren鈥檛 outliers. They鈥檙e what happens when students with extraordinary drive meet extraordinary support.

This is the true legacy of 性视界传媒, of Millican and of the society members: students with the confidence to go further, supported by those who believe they can.