First Generation Students

Welcome to the First-Generation Students Community at the University of Florida! The resources and tools provided here have been thoughtfully curated to support you as a first-generation college student.

This community includes information and resources to empower you in building your career and professional development at UF and beyond. Take the time to explore articles, blog posts, and success stories from fellow first-gen students. Discover ways to make the most of your time at UF, like getting involved in student organizations, connecting with first-gen alumni, and utilizing real-time labor market data to guide your career choices.

Elevate Your UF Experience: How to Document a University Recognized Experience

What is a University Recognized Experience (URE)? A URE is a co-curricular or “non-credit”, career-related experience that gives you hands-on, real-world experience as a valuable part of your learning journey. These experiences go beyond the classroom, allowing you to develop …

By Alana Cordero
Alana Cordero Career Coach for Experiential Learning
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2026 Mid-Year Job Market Reality Check: What First-Year Students Need To Know

The Job Market in 2026: Why Starting Early Matters for Your Career

If you’ve just started college, it might feel like career planning can wait. But the reality is different: today’s job and internship market is competitive, steady—but not rapidly …

By Jason Tillotson
Jason Tillotson Career Coach for Early Engagement
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Technical Recruiting in 2026: What’s Changing (and How to Stand Out)

The tech recruiting landscape is evolving at a rapid pace, with AI transforming not only the roles you’re pursuing but also the way you prepare and apply. After attending a recent Computing Research Association webinar, I’ve outlined key takeaways to …

By Crystal Burton
Crystal Burton Assistant Director for Career Pathways: STEM
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Get Real Industry Experience with UF-ITAC (No Experience Needed to Start)

Ready to move beyond the classroom and work on real projects that actually matter to companies across Florida?

The University of Florida Industrial Training and Assessment Center (UF-ITAC) is your opportunity to gain hands-on experience in energy, sustainability, manufacturing, productivity, …

By Crystal Burton
Crystal Burton Assistant Director for Career Pathways: STEM
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Exploring STEM Careers in Public Service: Insights from the Florida Public Service Commission

STEM students often look to private industry when exploring careers, but a recent conversation with Ryan Sandy at the Florida Public Service Commission highlighted another impactful path. Through a discussion on internships, daily work, and industry trends, one theme stood …

By Crystal Burton
Crystal Burton Assistant Director for Career Pathways: STEM
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Career Resources

Pre-Law students seeking financial aid and scholarship support should utilize AccessLex Institute. This website offers many free resources and webinars …

Experiential Learning encompasses diverse personal and professional activities, engaging you beyond the classroom to gain practical insights, develop knowledge and …

Job board related resource through the State of Florida. This page is focused on current students and recent graduates interested …

Join the First-Gen Community on Gator Network!

Connect with first-gen alumni, students, faculty, and staff who are ready to …

Contact & Location

Phone
352-392-1601
Address

J. Wayne Reitz Union
Suite 1300
PO Box 118507
Gainesville, FL 32611-8507

Career Service Hours

Monday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Tuesday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Thursday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm

We are located on Level 1 of the Reitz Union.