Exploring Psychology Careers Through UF’s HR & Healthcare Trek: Your Path Starts Here

On Friday, February 20, UF students will have the chance to step off campus and into two dynamic workplaces during the Career Connections Center’s latest Career Trek: UF Human Resources and Meridian Healthcare, both located right here in Gainesville. Register here!

The morning begins with a behind‑the‑scenes visit to UF Human Resources, where students will explore the full spectrum of HR specialties that support over 30,000 employees across the university. From recruiting and training to compensation, benefits, and employee relations, this immersive experience offers a firsthand look at how HR professionals shape workplace culture and drive organizational success. It’s a perfect opportunity for students interested in leadership, people‑focused careers, or organizational development to see HR in action.

In the afternoon, the group will head to Meridian Healthcare, a community‑based behavioral health organization that’s been serving Gainesville for more than 50 years. Students will learn how integrated, whole‑person care works across programs like outpatient services, crisis stabilization, housing support, and community outreach. Whether you’re studying psychology, sociology, social work, or healthcare, this visit offers a meaningful glimpse into careers that make a real impact in mental health and community wellness.

This Career Trek is especially relevant for students in UF’s Psychology program, which provides a strong foundation for careers in psychology and prepares students for advanced professional schools such as law or medicine. The curriculum emphasizes psychological knowledge as both a natural and social science, opening doors to diverse career paths.

And here’s the fun part: just because you major in psychology doesn’t mean you’re destined to sit in a cozy office listening to clients on a couch all day! Psychology is one of the most versatile degrees at UF—your path might lead you into HR, healthcare, policy, research, tech, or community impact. Join us on this trek and explore the many directions your passion for understanding people can take you.

According to What Can I Do With This Major? students with a psychology background may find inspiration in roles such as:

  • 🗂️Human Resources: Organizational Development Assistant, Recruiting Coordinator, or Market Research Analyst
  • 🏥 In healthcare: Rehabilitation Specialist, Patient Advocate, Health Educator, or Public Health Assistant
  • ⚖️ In social services: Victim Advocate, Community Outreach Coordinator, or Policy Assistant
  • 🧬 For graduate school pathways: Clinical Psychologist, School Psychologist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, or Psychiatrist

This Career Trek is open to students from all majors, with a special invitation to those in Psychology and Sociology. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Sign up through GivePulse and get ready for a full day of career exploration, networking, and inspiration. Register here!

For questions, reach out to Effie Cao at di.cao@ufl.edu or Alana Cordero at alanacordero@ufl.edu.

By Alana Cordero
Alana Cordero Career Coach for Experiential Learning