Experiential learning at UF just got a major upgrade: the University Recognized Experience (URE) is now officially live, giving students a clear and meaningful way to self‑report the hands‑on learning they’re already doing. Whether it’s an internship, research project, leadership role, or community engagement, students can now document these experiences directly in the new Gator Experiential Learning Hub.
Every approved URE becomes part of a student’s Gator Experience Record, a comprehensive, university‑verified record that highlights the skills, impact, and involvement students build outside the classroom. This means students can finally showcase the full story of their UF journey, not just their academic transcript, but the real‑world experiences that shape who they’re becoming.
Makana’s Experience in Action
Makana Salim‑Uesi, a rising sophomore majoring in Urban Sciences and Planning at UF, spent her spring semester completing an internship with genCLEO UF, the University of Florida campus chapter of The CLEO Institute, a 501(c)(3) non‑profit, non‑partisan organization dedicated to climate change education, engagement, and advocacy.
Her internship is a powerful example of how experiential learning allows students to make meaningful contributions beyond the classroom. Makana helped plan general body meetings, collaborated with partners, and supported efforts to educate residents about energy issues affecting their neighborhoods.
One of the most impactful parts of Makana’s internship was contributing to a documentary project exploring energy burdens faced by historically underserved communities. She helped film and gather stories from residents, highlighting how high utility costs and aging infrastructure disproportionately affect certain demographics.
Through this project, Makana connected with two key community organizations, each with distinct roles in strengthening resilience:
- Cultural Arts Coalition — Her work here centered on environmental stewardship and cultural enrichment, supporting initiatives that blend community education with creative engagement.
- Community Weatherization Coalition — Makana worked directly with Alachua County residents to make small but meaningful improvements to home energy and water systems, helping reduce utility bills and improve efficiency.
Both organizations contribute to community resilience, and Makana’s involvement gave her firsthand insight into how urban planning intersects with social equity, environmental justice, and local policy.
Now that her University Recognized Experience has been approved, Makana’s internship will appear on her Gator Experience Record, showcasing her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to community‑centered planning. She is already preparing to submit additional leadership experiences and is gathering artifacts and reflections to continue building a strong experiential portfolio.
Makana’s story is a reminder that experiential learning isn’t just about gaining skills, it’s about making a difference. Her work with genCLEO UF shows future students what’s possible when you step into your community, ask thoughtful questions, and take action.
