FLC Presents: Food for Thought

Good afternoon Gators!

Finals are just around the corner, and we here at the UF understand that this can be a very stressful time for students. FLC is putting on another event tonight to give students the opportunity to get away from the textbooks, at least for a little while. Research has proven that those who take breaks while studying are able to perform better, anyways!

Come join us outside of Library West this Thursday from 8 to 10 p.m. for free food, refreshing drinks and to learn a few techniques about how to manage stress from different on-campus organizations. I have attended this in the past, and I can personally attest to how helpful it is.

Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/events/1426668687550863/ to get more information about this awesome stress-releiving event. Good luck with finals!

FLC Presents: Snow, Swamp, and Everything Chomp

Good afternoon Gators!

While everyone is studying for final exams as our semester draws to a close, I wanted to use today's post as an opportunity to spread awareness about an event being put on by the Florida Leadership Council that I am very excited about! Tonight at 6 p.m., join FLC for their Snow, Swamp, and Everything Chomp event that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit!

The event will take place at Weaver Beach, and the night will include hot chocolate, inflatables and even snow. The Florida Cicerones, another great organization at the University of Florida, will also be offering tasty treats by the grill and will be available to answer questions to any potential applicants. UF Hillel will also be providing latkes and wholesome view of the holidays! Tonight is a great opportunity to take a short break from studying to relax and enjoy the holiday festivities while also learning a little more about a few of the many prestigious on-campus organizations offered here. I hope to see everyone there.

Happy Holidays!

Second Lunch on the Lawn with Bon

Today I will be hosting my second Lunch on the Lawn during my administration! Make sure to stop by today for some free food and information about the different Agencies inside Student Government to learn more about getting involved. Here is a brief overview of the diverse agencies inside the Executive Branch of SG, all of which aim to accomplish a different, important goal.

ACCENT Speaker's Bureau is the largest student-run speaker's bureau in the nation, and has provided the University of Florida with many big name speakers in its 30-year existence, including past Presidents, Prime Ministers and business and sports legends. Action SG serves students by providing transparency and accountability to our Student Government. Its main goal is to publicize all events and services that Student Government puts on. If you are interested in the election process, then the Elections agency is the spot for you. They are the people that run the largest one of the largest student-run elections in the country.

External Affairs is an agency that is responsible for representing student opinion and views on key legislative government priorities on the local, state, and federal level. They are a representative voice for the student body when it comes to different political views and standpoints on many important topics. Freshman Leadership Council is one of my personal favorite agencies on campus, as it provides an amazing opportunity for freshman to get involved in and learn about Student Government, while also getting a chance to get involved in the Gainesville community early on in their collegiate careers.

Gator Innovators is one of the newest agencies on campus, geared towards students who have interest in entrepreneurial startups in the Gainesville communities. It is one of the most innovative agencies we have, and proves that SG is always striving to push the limits and better the community around us. Gators Going Green is responsible for advocating sustainability issues and ensuring that the University of Florida stays ahead of the curve with the nationwide push to "go green".

STAAR is an agency that has been educating students for over 10 years about racism all over the Gainesville community and striving to ensure equality for all student and residents in the area. Last but not least, Student Government Productions (SGP) provides a wide and diverse array of popular entertainment to students for free or at a reduced cost.

As you can see, there are a plethora of different agencies to get involved in in Student Government, so stop by Lunch on the Lawn today to learn more details about each and how to apply!

Welcome Back Video

The fall semester is finally upon us. As we get back into the full swing of things, I wanted to share my welcome back video with the entire student body.

Speaking from personal experience, I understand that the beginning of the semester can be a very busy, stressful, yet also fun time. There is a plethora of opportunities available for students to get involved with during this time of year, so don't wait to get involved! I firmly believe that with 900 student organizations there is something out there for everyone, including freshman who are just starting class for the first time. The sooner you find your niche here at UF, the better your overall experience will be.

Some of the organizations and resources I outlined in my video include Greek organizations, the Alumni Association, the Career Resource Center, and Student Government. These are a few great examples of involvement opportunities that can truly enhance your college experience.

Again, I encourage everyone to work hard, get involved in something your passionate about, and have fun while doing it. I hope everyone is having a great start to their semester and is exicted about what the near future has in store! Oh...and don't forget to stay classy, Gators.



First Week Of Fall In Review

Although we haven't even had a full week of school yet, I feel like so much has happened! After being home for a few days between Summer B and Fall, I came back to help with UF move-in at our residence halls. I remember the first time moving into my dorm and how exciting and exhausting that was, so I decided to help by passing out waters to students and parents.

On Monday, I was given the amazing opportunity to speak to all 1st year students at UF. It was so awesome seeing the Class of 2017 for the first time all together at Convocation. It is crazy to think that the next time this group will be all together is at graduation!

I also began my graduate classes this week. While I know this semester will be challenging, I am looking forward to learning more about my program and eventually having my Masters of Science in Management.

This Fall is off to a great start and I can't wait to see what else it brings. Already there is so much going on! If you are interested in Student Government like I was when I came here, applications are already out for ACCENT Speaker's Bureau, Student Government Productions and Freshman Leadership Council so be sure to check those out on our website! If you have any questions, come see us on the 3rd floor of the Reitz Union. Go Gators!