Florida State University hosted its largest ever New Graduate Student Orientation on Aug. 18 at the HCB Building, welcoming more than 500 new students pursuing professional certificates, master’s and doctoral degrees.

Students spent the morning learning about various resources available to them on campus, including information about the libraries, safety protocols, health services and opportunities for teaching, professional and career development.

“Graduate student orientation is a critical part of the graduate student’s journey,” said Greg Bell, the new dean of FSU’s Graduate School. “We connect them with those resources now so that they know that they’re there in the future.”

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Florida State University will welcome its latest incoming class of nearly 6,000 first-year students this fall as the new academic year begins Monday, Aug. 24.

The Class of 2030 arrives as Florida State celebrates its 175^th anniversary and builds on momentum in student success, entrepreneurship, research and FSU Health, FSU’s integrated academic health system.

“Florida State University has never had more momentum,” FSU President Richard McCullough said. “We’ve set records every year over the last five years in student success, research and impacts on our community, and this freshman class will be an integral part of that continued success and momentum. It’s one of the best times of the year to see all the students moving in and the campus populated by so many people. It’s just so fun to be here at Florida State University.”

FSU received more than 96,000 applications for its first-year class, a 12% increase from the 2024-2025 application cycle. The admitted class included students from all 50 states, all 67 Florida counties and 55 countries, representing more than 2,700 U.S. high schools.

This year’s admitted students posted an average core GPA of 4.5, average SAT score of 1430 and average ACT score of 32. Additionally, 92% ranked in the top 10% of their high school classes, and 80% earned A/B grades. The five most popular areas of study among admitted students were business, engineering, biology, exploratory and political science.

Florida State continues to break its own graduation and retention rate records, strengthening its position as a national leader in student academic success. Last year, the university retained first-year students from their fall to spring semester at a record 99.2% rate, among the highest in the country. FSU also ranks among the nation’s top four public universities for its first-year retention rate, with 97% of students returning for their second year.

FSU offers a variety of pathways for first-year students. More than 600 students will start their FSU experience at Tallahassee State College through FSU Next, and approximately 300 students will begin their studies abroad at one of FSU’s four study centers through First Semester Abroad or First Year Abroad.

The start of the academic year also brings new faculty and academic leaders, expanded programs and continued investment in the student experience. Some notable items:

Students

• FSU’s graduate programs will enroll about 3,200 new students this fall, bringing total graduate enrollment to nearly 11,000 students across the university. The university received more than 16,000 graduate applications for the fall semester.
• This year, 6,300 students will live in one of FSU’s 18 on-campus residence hall complexes, including nearly 4,550 first-year students. University Housing offers a variety of living options for undergraduate and graduate students, including 11 Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) that will house more than 700 first-time-in-college students this year. Students living in LLCs are advised by faculty from one of the colleges or FSU’s Division of Undergraduate Studies. Earlier this year, FSU started construction on the northwest side of campus for a new residence hall, dining hall and parking garage.
• FSU continues to invest in programs for high-achieving students. The Presidential Scholars Program, FSU’s premier undergraduate merit scholarship, will welcome a cohort of 60 first-year students, while more than 780 students will join the University Honors Program. Nearly 700 Honors students will live in on-campus residence halls this academic year.

Faculty and academics

• For the fourth consecutive year, more than 200 new faculty have joined FSU since the start of the previous academic year.
• FSU also welcomed several new academic leaders this summer. Gregory Bell joined the university in July as dean of The Graduate School. Kirk Foster began serving as dean of the College of Social Work on Aug. 17. Assistant Provost and Marketing Professor Mike Brady has been appointed interim dean of the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, the university is searching for its next dean of the College of Law as Dean Erin O’Hara O’Connor prepares to step down.
• Florida State University continues to expand its academic offerings with several new programs this fall, including new online MBA majors in Healthcare Administration and Alternative Investments and Finance through the Wertheim College of Business, an undergraduate program in Interdisciplinary Design through the College of Fine Arts, an undergraduate degree in Civics and Liberty Studies, a one-year graduate program in Data and Society and new undergraduate majors in Intelligence Students and Emergency Management through the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, and FSU Panama City’s undergraduate Clinical Professions major through the College of Medicine.

New around Tallahassee and upcoming events

• From everyday travelers to fans arriving for FSU gamedays, campus tours or move-in week, anyone passing through Tallahassee International Airport can now step onto the turf and snap a photo with a 7-foot, hand-painted aluminum replica of FSU’s flaming spear. #PlantTheSpearTLH
• The FSU Health Research and Collaboration Building will open later this fall on the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare campus, providing space for clinical research, laboratories and a family medicine residency clinic, creating new opportunities for education, patient care and scientific discovery.
• “Welcome FSU” offers events and activities to kick off the fall semester through Saturday, Aug. 29. These events give students opportunities to learn about campus resources, get involved and make FSU and Tallahassee feel like home.
• FSU Nite, Florida State University’s official welcome event and pep rally, kicks off the academic year at 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, at Langford Green with performances by the Marching Chiefs, FSU Golden Girls & Company Dance Team, FSU Cheer, other spirit groups and DJ Demp.
• The FSU football team opens its season at Doak S. Campbell Stadium against New Mexico State at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29. Students are invited to the first Garnet & Gold Tailgate of the season from 4-6 p.m. at the Union Green.

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New and returning Florida State University students can expect a warm welcome and nearly two weeks of events and experiences to kick off the fall semester. “Welcome FSU”  begins Monday, Aug. 17, and runs through Saturday, Aug. 29.

Through “Welcome FSU,” students can explore the numerous clubs and organizations, fraternities and sororities, intramural sports and other opportunities offered at Florida State. The university’s official welcome at the start of each semester, “Welcome FSU” features social, well-being, cultural and academic activities designed to help students connect with the FSU community.

“We want students to feel at home as soon as they arrive on campus and immediately know they belong,” said Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs. “The events and programs during ‘Welcome FSU’ are designed to showcase the many ways students can get involved, build connections, form friendships and introduce students to all that FSU offers.”

For the complete list of “Welcome FSU” information and the full fall schedule, visit welcome.fsu.edu.

Monday, Aug. 17

Seminole Dining Foodstock  

Open Hours | Seminole Dining Locations
(This event runs until Aug. 27) 

Grab your Festival Pass to Seminole Dining’s Foodstock at the FSUCard Office, Suwannee Room or Seminole Café and discover dining options across campus. Collect stamps from each stop. Every participating festivalgoer earns a prize; the first 100 to complete their Festival Pass will earn $10 Dining Dollars, and three lucky fans who complete it by Aug. 28 will win one of three grand prizes.

Fitness & Movement Clinic Opens 

11 a.m. | FMC 

Stop by the Health and Wellness Center to start your workout routine as the Fitness & Movement Clinic reopens for the semester.  

Play, Create, Connect 

7-9 p.m. | ASLC 

Get crafty or competitive. Create your own artistic masterpiece with the Art Center, grab a board game in the Cyber Café or challenge a friend to compete in the Garnet Gaming Lounge.

Tuesday, Aug. 18

Bowling & Bingo 

7-9 p.m. | Student Union, Lower Level 

Stop by for an evening of bowling, bingo, billiards, board games and snacks.

Wednesday, Aug. 19

Cosmic Kick-Off Gaming Event

4-7 p.m. | ASLC Cyber Café 

Blast your way into the semester with Star Wars Battlefront, LEGO Star Wars, HALO, and free access to the Garnet Gaming Lounge. Make slime, origami stars and more in the Cyber Cafe.

Munch and Mingle

4-7 p.m. | Student Union Green 

Get the scoop on meal plans and campus dining and enjoy snow cones, popcorn, yard games and more. Discover valuable student resources and learn about programs and services that can help you make the most of your FSU experience. It’s the perfect chance to reunite with friends, meet new ones and start the semester right.

Karaoke with Inter-residence Hall Council (IRHC)

6-9 p.m. | Club Downunder 

Sing your heart out with friends, old and new, at Welcome FSU karaoke night.

Thursday, Aug. 20

RecFest

7-10 p.m. | Leach Recreation Center 

Explore Campus Rec’s fitness, sports and outdoor adventure offerings at RecFest, featuring contests, express activities, sampler classes, snow cones and smoothies.

FSU vs. Florida Atlantic Women’s Soccer

7-9 p.m. | Seminole Soccer Complex 

Bring your FSUCard and cheer on the reigning national champion FSU women’s soccer team as it hosts Florida Atlantic in its home opener. Space is limited, so get there early.

ASLC Movie: Project Hail Mary 

7-9:30 p.m. | ASLC 

ASLC movies are free for students with your FSUCard.

Stand Up Downunder

8–10 p.m. | Club Downunder 

Kick off your semester with a comedic standup show from Keegan Tindall. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show starts at 8 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 21

Find Your Classroom Tours

9-11:30 a.m. | HCB Atrium
(Available through Aug. 23) 

Take a brief guided walking tour of campus to help you find your way to class. Tours start at 9 a.m. and leave every 30 minutes, with the final tour departing at 11:30 a.m.).  

Welcome Week Carnival

5-8 p.m. | Union Green

Join fellow students for an evening of carnival activities on Union Green.

FSU Women’s Volleyball: Garnet vs. Gold Match 

6-8 p.m. | Tully Gymnasium

Catch the action and meet the FSU women’s volleyball team after watching an open scrimmage. Admission is free to all FSU volleyball home matches. 

Saturday, Aug. 22

Lounge at the Lake

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. | FSU Lakefront Park 

Enjoy the sun and swim, kayak, paddleboard, play sand volleyball or stay in the shade. Entry to the FSU Lakefront Park is always free for students with their FSUCard.

Last Call Before Fall Concert

8-10:30 p.m. | Union Green 

Wrap up summer with our annual fall concert on the Union Green. Enjoy the show, along with activities and food trucks.

Sunday, Aug. 23

Leach Unlocked: Learn the Gym

10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Leach Recreation Center 

Learn about the Leach through facility tours and equipment demos every hour starting at 10 a.m. Staff will show you around and help you find the best ways for you to get the workout you want at the Leach Center.

Out-of-State Student Mixer

3-5 p.m. | Club Downunder  

Mingle with students from outside Florida and meet our Noles Everywhere student ambassadors during this casual, drop-in event with light snacks. 

Opening Floor Meetings 

Times Vary | Your Residence Hall Floor 

Meet your RA and other members of your community at your Welcome Home floor meetings.

FSU Nite Pep Rally

8-9 p.m. | Langford Green (Unconquered Statue)

Celebrate the start of a new academic year. This high-energy FSU tradition features performances and appearances by the Marching Chiefs, FSU Golden Girls & Company Dance Team, FSU Cheer and other spirit groups, with guest host DJ Demp. Enjoy interactive games, trivia, photo opportunities, free merchandise and giveaways. Admission is free, and complimentary student parking is available.

Monday, Aug. 24

Ask A Nole

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Various Campus Locations
(Also available Aug. 25) 

Ask A Nole stations across campus will offer directions and answer questions during the first day of classes.  

First Day Photos

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Landis Green
(Also available Aug. 25) 

Mark the first day of classes with a photo on Landis Green and share it with your family and friends. #WelcomeFSU #FSUFirstDayPhoto  

Get the Scoop about Health Care on Campus

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Health and Wellness Center 
(Available through Aug. 26)

Enjoy free ice cream and the scoop on services to support your health and well-being at FSU.

Branch Out: Leadership Speed Friending 

3-5 p.m. | ASLC Courtyard

Mash the fun of speed friending with interactive leadership development with this high energy, walk-up social event that bypasses awkward small talk to help you dive right into making connections. Meet new people through quick, fun challenges and activities and discover your unique leadership potential.

Multi-Player Monday

5-9 p.m. | ASLC Cyber Café 

Enjoy board games galore in the Cyber Café.

Tuesday, Aug. 25

Study Season Kickoff

4-6 p.m. | Strozier Library 

Join us at Strozier Library for free food, resources, prizes and more (while supplies last).

Game On with Intramural Sports

7-10 p.m. | Tully Gymnasium 

Jump into pickup games, grab a snack, win prizes and learn about Intramural Sports. Preview our fall schedule of leagues and events and find the perfect sport for a fun, active and social experience.

Wednesday, Aug. 26

Part-Time Job Fair

1:30-4:30 p.m. | Union Ballrooms 

Connect with employers for on and off-campus jobs so you can balance work while taking classes.

Engage TLH: Connecting and Serving in Tallahassee

2-3:30 p.m. | Dunlap Success Center 

Connect your interests and skills with student organizations, campus service opportunities and ways to serve the Tallahassee community. This interactive program will also highlight local festivals, campus spaces and things to do in Tallahassee.

Find Your Focus: Campus Resource Tour

4-6 p.m. | WJB Ground Floor 

Explore the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) to see how our academic support teams have your back. You don’t have to study alone.

Welcome Back BBQ

7-10 p.m. | ASLC Courtyard 

Enjoy an evening of BBQ as you gather and connect with your fellow Noles. University Health Services will also be holding an open house.

Second-Year Social Lounge

7-10 p.m. | Global Center for Engagement 

Stop by and connect with other second-year students and enjoy sweet treats, mocktails, music and conversation.

Thursday, Aug. 27

S’mores on Landis

3-5 p.m. | Landis Green

Check out this fall’s outdoor adventure trips and activities with Outdoor Pursuits while you make your own s’mores (while they last).

Fall Involvement Fair

5-8 p.m. | Tucker Civic Center

Explore more than 300 student organizations, meet with student leaders, learn about our registered student organizations and find ways to get involved.

Party on the Plaza

7-9 p.m. | Westcott Fountain 

Get a sunset photo at the fountain, grab a snack, enjoy music and connect with members of our FSU community.

Friday, Aug. 28

First Week Unwind

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | ASLC Courtyard 

Relax and recharge with activities celebrating the end of the first week of the semester.

Cosmic Bowling

9 p.m. – Midnight | Union Lower Level 

Bowl under black lights and a cosmic glow for $18 per hour for a lane with up to five bowlers or enjoy the billiards tables and game simulator.

Friday Night Racquet

8-11 p.m. | Leach Recreation Center 

Grab your paddle (or borrow one of ours) for pickleball and table tennis. The Leach Center is open late only for this special event so bring your FSUCard and stop by and play.

ASLC Movie Night: 22 Jump Street 

Midnight – 2 a.m. | ASLC 

ASLC movies are free for students with your FSUCard.

Saturday, Aug. 29

Garnet and Gold Tailgate

4-6 p.m. | Union Green 

Enjoy inflatables, games, free food and water at our first Garnet & Gold Tailgate of the season.

FSU vs. New Mexico State Football 

7-10:30 p.m. | Doak Campbell Stadium 

Cheer on the Seminole Football team as they take the field for the home opener game. Get your student tickets in advance. Ticket registration starts Monday, Aug. 24 at noon; details at seminoles.com/feature/students.

About ‘Welcome FSU’

“Welcome FSU” supports the Division of Student Affairs’ year-round “Hello FSU!” campaign that works with campus partners to highlight key campus events, programs, activities and services for undergraduate students:

• The Weekly Top 5 – A curated collection of the week’s biggest events, programs, activities and deadlines. (Debuts every Monday throughout the academic year on #HelloFSU social media and at hello.fsu.edu.)

• How To FSU – Connects students with how-to resources and online guides to help navigate various campus processes.

• Success Tips – Identifies resources and tips for succeeding in and out of the classroom.

• Spotlight FSU – Feature stories on programs, services and people from around campus.

• ICYMI – In Case You Missed It provides an extra reminder for upcoming events, deadlines or other important actions.

• Always On – Highlights the many events that are always happening on campus.

• Ready For – Provides tips on how to prepare for a variety of FSU experiences from getting ready for the first week of class to attending an FSU Noles Athletics event.

To stay up to date with the Division of Student Affairs, follow them on Instagram, Facebook, X and the FSU Calendar.

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Florida State University will celebrate its summer Class of 2026 on Friday, July 31, as graduates mark academic achievements, personal growth and the start of new careers.

FSU will award 2,891 degrees, including 1,582 bachelor’s, 952 master’s and specialist, 253 doctoral, 99 Juris Master’s, and 5 LL.M. degrees. More than 1,786 graduates are expected to participate in the day’s ceremonies.

Anne Bristol

As the daughter of Haitian immigrants and a first-generation college student, West Palm Beach native Anne Bristol will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in political science and a minor in innovation from the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy.

Bristol chose Florida State because of the support she found through the CARE TRIO SSS program and a campus culture that encourages students to lead with purpose. FSU gave her opportunities to turn her passion for advocacy into public service, mentor peers and facilitate meaningful dialogue.

“My time at FSU has instilled in me a commitment to creating positive change in my community, and I am incredibly grateful for the mentors, peers and experiences that have helped me grow into the leader I am today,” Bristol said. “The relationships I built and the opportunities I created for others are what I will carry long after graduation.”

Bristol built strong connections across the FSU community through leadership roles in the Student Senate, the Black Student Union, and the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE).

“Walking across the stage represents so much more than earning a degree,” Bristol said. “It symbolizes every challenge I have overcome, every mentor who believed in me and every sacrifice my family made so I could reach this moment. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I carry my family’s resilience with me every day. Crossing the commencement stage means becoming a first-generation college graduate, a milestone that reflects generations of perseverance and hope.”

After graduation, Bristol plans to attend law school to pursue a career in public interest law, advocating for historically underserved communities and helping create equitable policy.

Nicholas Baldini

As a legacy student who grew up wearing garnet and gold, Marietta, Georgia, native Nicholas Baldini will earn his second degree from Florida State University, a Master of Business Administration from the Herbert Wertheim College of Business.

Baldini previously earned his bachelor’s degree in finance at FSU and formed lasting connections through his fraternity, intramural leagues and church group. Following in the footsteps of his mother, a 1987 alumna, he returned to his dream school to blend campus traditions with graduate-level professional development.

“Walking across the commencement stage represents much more than earning another degree,” Baldini said. “This reflects years of hard work, perseverance and growth, along with the support of my family, friends, professors and mentors who helped me along the way. To me, this represents striving to go above and beyond and to stay curious by continuously learning throughout my whole professional career.”

Baldini returned to Florida State to build on his finance background and strengthen strategic leadership skills. Experiences such as attending an alternative investment summit and networking with estate planning professionals helped prepare him for a career in wealth management.

“The MBA program has challenged me to think strategically, collaborate with talented classmates from so many backgrounds, and approach business problems from a broader perspective,” Baldini said. “It is a moment to celebrate everything I’ve accomplished at FSU while looking forward with excitement to starting my career and applying what I’ve learned.”

After graduation, he plans to move to Atlanta to begin his career in wealth management at Charles Schwab. He plans to earn the Certified Financial Planner designation and provide pro bono financial planning to historically underserved communities.

William Perez

Miami native and first-generation graduate student William Perez will earn a doctorate in religion from the Department of Religion in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Perez, the son of Cuban and Nicaraguan immigrants, moved to Tallahassee in 2021 with his wife and four daughters to pursue the American religious history track. Now a father of five, he values the intellectual community he found at FSU and the ability to pursue rigorous doctoral research while spending meaningful time with his family.

Perez chose to attend Florida State because of the national reputation of its religion program. At FSU, he presented at international academic conferences, published research on religion and emotion and received several awards, including the department’s Porterfield Research Prize.

“Not only does FSU boast one of the oldest religion departments at a public university in the United States, but its religion faculty also remains on the cutting-edge of research and publication in the field,” Perez said. “I wanted the opportunity to learn from and work with them, and it has paid off.”

After graduation, Perez plans to continue teaching and conducting research in Tallahassee. He will serve as an adjunct professor in FSU’s Department of Religion and as a religious educator with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ seminary and institute program.

He also hopes to turn his dissertation on religion and emotion into a book, elevate the Latino community in religious studies and bring the interdisciplinary approaches he learned at FSU into wider academic conversations.

“Walking in this ceremony is meaningful to me because it represents not only my accomplishment, but a huge win for the family and community that has cheered me on from the very beginning,” Perez said. “It is the culmination of years of hard work and also the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.”

Jack Wemm

A Tallahassee local and lifelong Seminole, Jack Wemm will graduate magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management from the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. He chose FSU for its nationally recognized program and the opportunity to attend his childhood dream school.

During his three years at FSU, Wemm combined academic excellence with leadership and service across the university community.

“I believe in the saying, ‘The people make the place,’ and there is no place like FSU,” Wemm said. “The feeling of being a Seminole and a part of the Florida State community is special.”

Wemm’s time at FSU was defined by service. As vice president of membership for Seminole Student Boosters, he helped lead the student-run organization raising money for FSU Athletics and student-athletes.

He also interned with University Relations, assisting with commencement ceremonies and football game operations and served as a team manager for the FSU men’s and women’s golf teams.

“Graduating in this ceremony means a lot to me because of the hard work and perseverance of not only myself, but also those who have supported me,” Wemm said. “When I walk across the stage, I hope my parents, my professors and the friends I have made along the way know that I could not have gotten this far without them.”

Wemm also studied sport management in London and spent six weeks in Valencia, Spain, through FSU International Programs. The experience broadened his understanding of the global sports industry.

After completing his bachelor’s degree, Wemm will intern in athletics law with FSU’s Office of the General Counsel this summer. He will then remain at Florida State to finish his master’s degree in sport management through the combined pathway program before pursuing law school, where he aims to build a career as a sports lawyer helping shape the future of athletics.

Sydney Goldberg

Tampa native Sydney Goldberg will graduate with a Master of Applied American Politics and Policy (MAAPP) from the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy. A double Seminole, she completed her bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in psychology in three years before entering the graduate program.

Goldberg was drawn to FSU for its location in Florida’s capital and the access it provided to state government. The MAAPP program allowed her to complement her studies with work on political campaigns and experience in state agencies, the legislature and advocacy.

“Walking in commencement marks the end of my academic career at FSU,” Goldberg said. “I tend to move quickly from one goal to the next, so commencement gives me a chance to stop, recognize everything I have accomplished and celebrate with the family and mentors who supported me.”

During her time at FSU, Goldberg maintained a strong campus presence, serving as vice president of the MAAPP Executive Board and holding leadership roles within Garnet and Gold Key, the Women’s Leadership Network, the Student Conduct Board and the Jewish Student Union.

Her proudest accomplishments reflect a commitment to public service. She worked on two successful state and congressional campaigns and participated in two Florida legislative sessions, including work for Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez. She also was selected for the Florida Gubernatorial Fellows Program and spent a year with the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

Looking ahead, Goldberg plans to build a career in political strategy, government affairs and advocacy, using her broad perspective across state leadership to drive results.

“Florida is my home, and I want to continue making a positive impact on the state that has given me so many opportunities,” Goldberg said. “I have been fortunate to have mentors who guided and advocated for me, and I hope to provide that same support to future students and young professionals entering the field.”

Pranathi Brungi

Pranathi Brungi will earn a doctorate in electrical and computer engineering from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. A native of South India, she was drawn to FSU by the college’s partnership with Florida A&M University and its nationally recognized research in power electronics.

Under the mentorship of Professor Petru Andrei, Brungi conducted interdisciplinary research in semiconductor devices, magnetics and machine learning. She developed advanced modeling techniques designed to improve electronic device performance and accelerate the design process.

Brungi’s graduate experience was defined by rapid achievement, leadership and service. She earned both her master’s degree and doctorate in three and a half years, received the Danfoss Research Scholarship and represented FSU during a weather balloon launch at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

She also presented at three Electrochemical Society conferences, served as a session chair and student ambassador, contributed to several research publications and chaired the Excellence in Teaching Award Committee for Tau Beta Pi, the engineering honor society.

“Walking at commencement represents far more than completing a degree,” Brungi said. “Earning a doctorate has been a personal dream and a journey filled with challenges, growth and perseverance. What makes this moment especially meaningful is seeing my parents and my brother proud of what I have accomplished.”

After graduation, Brungi will begin her career as a device engineer at onsemi, where she plans to advance AI-driven semiconductor design and streamline manufacturing. She also hopes to strengthen partnerships between universities and industry so that promising research can move into practical use.

“Semiconductors are at the core of nearly every technology we use today,” Brungi said. “I want to help ensure this field continues to grow, innovate and inspire future generations of engineers and researchers.”

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Florida State University student Sebastian Ruiz has been selected by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) for its competitive Cech Fellows Program, a nine-week undergraduate research experience taking place this summer.

A rising FSU senior majoring in statistics with a focus on psychology, Ruiz was chosen for the inaugural Cech Fellows cohort of 176 undergraduate students from 109 institutions across 36 states and territories. Students are paired with scientists in HHMI labs and participate in a research symposium at the Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia.

“Representing FSU in the first Cech Fellows class to me is both an honor and a responsibility because now I am representing FSU on the global neuroscience research stage,” said Ruiz, a transfer student from West Palm Beach. “It also shows a sense of confidence on behalf of Janelia in the level of preparation that FSU is providing me with in my coursework.”

The summer program at Janelia’s campus, 30 miles outside Washington, D.C., helps students contribute to scientific discovery, receive professional mentorship and learn about biomedical research careers. Students work alongside HHMI scientists who are actively engaged in biology and health research.

Ruiz will work in Janelia’s Turaga Lab studying how artificial intelligence can improve our understanding of neural networks. He will create a digital model of a fruit fly’s brain and will study how the brain responds when certain behaviors are performed. Ruiz hopes this research done on fruit flies will lay a foundation for large-scale human brain studies.

“Sebastian is a remarkable leader: independent, driven and with a clear vision,” said Carmen Varela, who has served as a faculty advisor and mentor to Ruiz. “Seeing him receive recognition through the HHMI Cech Fellows Program is incredibly rewarding and entirely deserved.”

“Representing FSU in the first Cech Fellows class to me is both an honor and a responsibility because now I am representing FSU on the global neuroscience research stage.”

– Sebastian Ruiz, FSU senior and HHMI Cech Fellow

Ruiz was also one of four FSU students selected this year for the Barry Goldwater Scholarship. The national honor recognizes outstanding sophomores and juniors pursuing research careers in the sciences, engineering and mathematics.

During his time at FSU, Ruiz has spent the past year as a research assistant at Brown University’s Sherif Lab, affiliated with the Carney Institute for Brain Science and the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, studying sensory noise degradation and the presentation of psychiatric illness following an earlier summer internship. In 2024, he participated in Carnegie Mellon University’s Summer Undergraduate Research Program in Computational Brain Science, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health.

At FSU, Ruiz founded the registered student organization CompNeuroSociety, a campus group that connects undergraduate students interested in computational neuroscience through interactive workshops, journal clubs and collaborative projects. The group helps students build confidence in the field and engage in discussions about computational neuroscience.

The Cech Fellows Program is named in honor of Thomas R. Cech, a former president of HHMI. Cech discovered that RNA can function as a biological catalyst, which reshaped molecular biology and earned him the 1989 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Cech established the Janelia campus and expanded educational opportunities for undergraduate students.

Founded in 1953, HHMI supports scientists at all stages of their careers and partners with more than 50 institutions nationwide.

For more information about applying for the Cech Fellows Program and other competitive national scholarships and fellowships for undergraduate students, visit FSU’s Office of National Fellowships website.

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New and returning Florida State University students are invited to participate in “Welcome FSU” summer, a series of events that kick off Friday, June 19, and continue through Saturday, June 27. The program highlights opportunities for students to get involved, build community and learn about campus resources.

Featuring social, well-being and academic activities, “Welcome FSU” serves as the university’s official welcome and start to each semester. Through events and activities, students can connect with one another and explore all FSU has to offer.

“No matter what semester a student arrives at Florida State, we want them to realize they are now part of an incredibly supportive community that cares about their well-being as well as their academic journey,” said Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs. “Our activities and programs offer a way to help students integrate and explore what FSU has to offer them.”

Below is a selection of “Welcome FSU” summer events. For the full summer schedule, visit  welcome.fsu.edu.

Start Strong at Leach

10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday, June 19
Leach Recreation Center

Focus on your personal wellness and get in your first workout, play pick-up basketball, jog on our indoor track or play a few rounds of bingo while sipping boba from 4-6 p.m.

Lake Day

11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, June 20

FSU Lakefront Park

Visit FSU’s historic Lakefront Park and immerse yourself in a fun-filled day with free food and outdoor activities. Swim in the lake, kayak, canoe or paddleboard, enjoy volleyball, disc golf or scale the climbing wall, or simply soak in the sun on the sandy beach or relax in the shade of one of our many lakeside pavilions. All FSU Lakefront Park activities are free for students.

Find Your Classroom Tours  

9 – 11:30 a.m., Sunday, June 21
HCB Atrium

Go on a brief, guided campus tour to see where your summer classes are located. Tours begin at 9 a.m. and leave every 30 minutes from the HCB Atrium; last tour leaves at 11:30 a.m.

Opening Floor Meetings

7 – 8 p.m., Sunday, June 21
Your Residence Hall Floor
Meet your RA and other members of your community at the Welcome Home floor meetings.

Cheers to the Next Few Years

8 – 9:30 p.m., Sunday, June 21
Azalea Magnolia Courtyard

Celebrate the start of your academic journey with games and food and toast to your future at Florida State.

First Day Photos

9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday, June 22

Landis Green

Commemorate your first day of classes and take a photo to share with family and friends.

Course Registration Help Session

10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday, June 22

Club Downunder

Drop in, ask questions, and get help with your Summer B class schedule. Staff can help you navigate Stellic and answer general questions. *Please meet with your advisor before attending.

Summer Sports Fest

7 – 9 p.m., Tuesday, June 23
Westside Courts

Interested in Intramurals during Summer B? Get a sneak peek into our offerings and kick off Campus Rec’s Summer Nights series. Join fellow students for pickleball, sand volleyball and basketball and learn about how you can register for this summer’s IM leagues. Attend four out of the six Rec Tuesday events to win a Summer Nights tank top!

Vision Boards at Strozier

2 – 4 p.m., Wednesday, June 24
Strozier Library

Stop by Strozier Library to grab a free 11×14 poster and create your own Summer Vision Board. Materials will be provided while supplies last.

Movie: Project Hail Mary

7 – 9:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 24
Askew Student Life Center (ASLC) Theater

Watch this blockbuster movie starring Ryan Gosling for FREE with your FSUCard. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show begins at 7 p.m. (Also playing Thursday-Saturday nights.)

Summer B Block Party

7 – 9 p.m., Thursday, June 25
Union Green

Step out for the sizzling Summer B Block Party and meet campus partners and student organizations for an evening filled with music, activities, food and fun.

Summer Involvement Fair

4 – 6 p.m., Friday, June 26
Student Union Ballrooms

Learn about FSU’s many registered student organizations, meet with student leaders and explore ways to get involved.

Summer in the Union

1 – 3 p.m., Saturday, June 27
Student Union

Escape the heat with an all-access pass to activities on the lower level and 2nd floor of the Student Union. Bring your FSU ID for karaoke in Club Downunder, bowling, billiards, food and a whole lot of fun!

About ‘Welcome FSU’

“Welcome FSU” is part of the Division of Student Affairs’ year-round “Hello FSU!” campaign, which highlights campus events, programs, activities and services for FSU students:

• The Weekly Top 5 – A curated collection of the week’s biggest events, programs, activities and deadlines. (Debuts every Monday throughout the academic year on #HelloFSU social media and at hello.fsu.edu.)
• How To FSU – Connects students with how-to resources and online guides to help navigate various campus processes.
• Success Tips – Identifies resources and provides life management tips to help students succeed in and out of the classroom.
• Spotlight Stories – Feature stories on programs, services and people from around campus.
• ICYMI – In Case You Missed It provides additional reminders for key events or important actions.
• Always On – Highlights the many events happening on campus.
• Ready For – Provides tips on how to prepare for a variety of FSU experiences from getting ready for the first week of class to attending an FSU Noles Athletics event.

To stay up to date with the Division of Student Affairs, follow them on Instagram, Facebook, X and the FSU Calendar.

For more “Welcome FSU” information and the full summer schedule, visit welcome.fsu.edu.

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Eighteen Florida State University students will be studying abroad this summer and school year through the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.

The Gilman Scholarship provides undergraduate students with high financial need the opportunity to study or intern in a foreign country. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the scholarship gives students the chance to become global citizens and active participants in their international community while gaining critical thinking and cultural awareness.

Chelsea James, a junior majoring in social science education with a minor in child development, will participate in the Broad Curriculum Program at the FSU London Study Centre through FSU International Programs. The Broad Curriculum Program includes FSU courses that satisfy requirements for graduation, CoreFSU and some majors or minors while living abroad.

After graduation next year, she plans to pursue a career in school leadership and hopes to expand student opportunities and transform the education landscape.

“I am excited to go to London because it will allow me to experience a diverse global culture firsthand while gaining new perspectives that will shape my growth as a future educator and leader,” James said.

Lana Abboud, a sophomore majoring in international affairs with a minor in economics, will participate in the Intensive French program in Paris through FSU International Programs. Students are placed in a language course based on their level of understanding and are taught entirely in French by native French-speaking faculty.

“This experience will strengthen my ability to engage across cultures and operate in international settings, while building the communication skills essential for diplomacy and global policy work,” Abboud said.

After graduation next fall, Abboud hopes to attend law school or pursue a career as a U.S. diplomat. She is interested in the intersection of international law and foreign policy and how they drive global corporations.

Niki Navarro Gutierrez, a junior majoring in digital media production and minoring in Italian and film, will attend the University of Foreigners of Perugia in Umbria, Italy, through FSU Global Exchanges.

“I am extremely interested in the appreciation that Italy, and Europe as a whole, has for film and the resources that are put into it,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez has a passion for creating documentaries or fiction films that tell a story about the culture they portray. She says she will benefit from traveling abroad and learning from diverse communities.

“Ultimately, I hope to return from Perugia not only with greater fluency in Italian, but also with the personal insight and professional skills to pursue documentary filmmaking on an international scale,” Gutierrez said.

Giselle Martinez, a junior majoring in biological science, will participate in FSU’s Biology in London program with FSU International Programs. Martinez will take two courses: Walking in Van Leeuwenhoek’s Shoes: Rediscovering Cell Biology, where students recreate classical experiments that shaped understanding of the cell, and Investigating Questions in Animal Behavior, which examines how development, genetics, and physiology shape behaviors like communication, aggression and sociality.

After graduation next year, Martinez plans to continue studying medicine as a women’s health researcher focusing on endometriosis and other women’s health concerns.

“I want to contribute to the under-researched and underrepresented areas of medicine in which many women find themselves struggling,” Martinez said.

Zorianna Starks, a junior majoring in psychology and minoring in social welfare, will study abroad in London and Amsterdam this summer through the Council on International Educational Exchange’s (CIEE) Comparative Public Health Systems program.

She plans to explore how cultural, social and economic factors influence the delivery of care and access to mental and public health.

“This experience will allow me to expand my perspective on mental health and public health systems while learning how different cultures address challenges in care and accessibility,” Starks said.

Starks also received funding through the Global Scholars Program, run by the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement, and the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement to support her study abroad experience.

“As someone pursuing a career in psychology and social work, it is important for me to understand diverse populations so I can better support and advocate for individuals from all backgrounds,” Starks said.

She plans to pursue a career as a child therapist, focusing on supporting underserved communities and addressing mental health disparities. Starks hopes this experience will strengthen her cultural awareness and provide insight that will help her make a meaningful impact in both clinical and community-based settings.

Silvia Rodriguez, a freshman majoring in economics, will participate in the Oxford University Consortium on Human Rights and New Technology in England with the FSU Honors Program.

During the consortium, she will present her findings about the impacts of artificial intelligence on the Florida criminal justice system. Her research focuses on predictive policing, sentencing algorithms and AI-driven immigration enforcement, and analyzing whether these technologies reinforce social biases in an international setting.

“Through the consortium, I will conduct interdisciplinary research on the ethical and legal implications of AI in the justice system and explore how policy can better protect civil rights in the digital age,” Rodriguez said.

After graduating from FSU, Rodriguez plans to attend law school.

Nashley Gabriel Cardenas, a junior majoring in accounting and minoring in criminology, will study abroad this summer in Strasbourg, France, through FSU Global Exchanges with a focus on business.

“This summer, I am looking forward to expanding my horizons and networking with students of different backgrounds,” Cardenas said. “Going abroad will give me the opportunity to understand how Europe approaches sustainability within business organizations with methods that I could apply to my business career.”

She is most excited to create new connections and to make her own path while being exposed to different cultures, branching out of her comfort zone in a new place.

“I never thought I would leave the U.S. during my time studying, and this means I have the power to create my own experiences and learn how to overcome impostor syndrome,” Cardenas said.

Madison Mager, a senior biological science major pursuing veterinary medicine, will intern this summer in Costa Rica through Loop Abroad, an educational veterinary service organization. She will work at the Toucan Rescue Ranch in San José, the country’s capital, to learn how another culture engages in animal care.

“I’m especially excited to learn from a completely different veterinary environment and gain new perspectives on wildlife care and conservation medicine,” Mager said. “I’m also looking forward to meeting new people, hearing their stories and experiencing another culture firsthand.”

After graduation, Mager plans to attend veterinary school and pursue exotic veterinary and conservation medicine.

Sophia Castro, a sophomore majoring in public health, will participate in the Broad Curriculum Program at the Valencia Study Center in Spain through FSU International Programs.

“Studying abroad in Valencia will challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone and engage with new cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking,” Castro said. “This experience will help me develop the cultural awareness and adaptability needed to better serve diverse communities and become a more well-rounded and compassionate provider.”

After graduation, Castro hopes to earn a master’s degree in nursing with a long-term career plan of owning a medical spa.

Lizzie Alba, a freshman pursuing a dual degree in psychology and human development and family sciences, will intern abroad in Madrid, this summer with the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS). She will work with the nonprofit organization YMCA to support parents and children in the community. She also received funding through FSU’s Global Scholars Program.

“As someone who aspires to become a marriage and family therapist, these interactions with both parents and children will provide me with valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the field,” Alba said. “Through this experience, I hope to become even more culturally sensitive.”

Alba is excited about the opportunity to work with families in a new environment and learn about the cultural implications that come with a new domain.

Brianna Zapata, a junior majoring in environment and society and interdisciplinary social sciences, will participate in a language-intensive program in São Paulo, Brazil, this summer through the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE).

“During the program, I will be studying topics related to urban sustainability, culture and global perspectives while gaining immersive international experience through coursework and community engagement,” Zapata said.

Zapata also earned a Critical Need Language Award, a supplemental scholarship offered through the Gilman Program. After graduation, she plans to focus on sustainability and conservation and how they impact underserved communities.

To learn more about the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship, students can email FSU’s Office of National Fellowships for an advising appointment. For more information about International Programs, visit international.fsu.edu. To learn more about Global Exchanges, visit cge.fsu.edu/global-programs.

This year’s Gilman Scholarship recipients, their destinations and majors are:

Yecenia Padron; Panama; Human Development and Family Sciences

Lana Abboud; France; International Affairs

Mya Ncastanedo; Spain; Media and Communication Studies

Nicole Navarro Gutiérrez; Italy; Digital Media Production

Chelsea James; United Kingdom; Social Science Education

Brianna Zapata; Brazil; Environment and Society and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences

Zorianna Starks; United Kingdom and the Netherlands; Psychology

Lizzie Alba; Spain; Psychology and Human Development and Family Sciences

Giselle Martinez; United Kingdom; Biological Science

Yemaya Adams; South Korea; Information Technology

Silvia Rodriguez; United Kingdom; Economics

Nashely Gabriel Cardenas; France; Accounting

Sacha Chiche Gallardo; France; Behavioral Neuroscience

Madison Northcutt; United Kingdom; Communication Science & Disorders

Sophia Castro; Spain; Public Health

Madison Mager; Costa Rica; Biological Science

Gianna Spadafino; Thailand; Communication and Public Relations

Adwoa Birago Nsiah Ababio; Spain; Food Science and Nutrition

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Florida State University awarded honors medallions to 548 high-achieving graduates during the spring 2026 Medallion Celebration at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

The FSU Honors Program supports the efforts and talents of some of the university’s most intellectually curious students who have the potential, dedication and drive for creating change.

The celebration included remarks by Associate Dean of Honors, Scholars, and Fellows D. Craig Filar and Dean of Undergraduate Studies DeOnte Brown.

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For international student athletes like Saofé Duval and Gabor Hornung, the transition to college in the United States involves more than practices and matches. It also means adapting to a new language, culture and academic system. 

Before arriving on campus, international students whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English through standardized testing. Undergraduate applicants are required to meet minimum score thresholds on exams such as the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test). Even with this foundation, adjusting to academic life in the US can present challenges — from navigating classroom discussions to understanding cultural nuances and expectations. 

To support this transition, Florida State University offers Academic English Skills for International Students (EAP 1850), a course designed to help undergraduate international students strengthen their academic English and communication skills after enrollment. This past spring, Duval and Hornung enrolled in the course. It also introduces students to U.S. classroom expectations, cultural norms and the wide range of resources available to help them succeed at FSU. 

The course is taught by Patrick Kennell, director of the Center for Intensive English Studies (CIES). Founded in 1980, CIES provides English language instruction for international students preparing to study at U.S. universities and operates within The Graduate School at FSU.  

“This is one of my favorite courses I’ve ever taught,” Kennell said. “It’s developing their English, but it’s also developing their cultural knowledge and helping them navigate their way through their first semester here at Florida State.”

Duval, a freshman on the nationally ranked beach volleyball team, came to FSU from La Couarde-sur-Mer, a seaside village located in the center of the Île de Ré in southwestern France. She’s already noticed asignificant improvement in her English skills.  

“I was pretty bad at English when I came, but now I feel more comfortable,” she said. “I can say, ‘I don’t understand, so please can you repeat?’”  

Hornung, a freshman on the men’s tennis team from Budapest, Hungary, grew up in the smaller town of Kapuvár. Having already competed in professional tournaments, he remained focused on earning an international degree in the U.S. Now at FSU, he said the course is helping him strengthen his English communication skills. 

“This class is very helpful,” Hornung said. “When I speak to Americans, they don’t care if I make a mistake, they understand what I mean, but I want to speak perfectly. I don’t want to make mistakes. And with Dr. Kennell, we consider every little mistake that I make.” 

International student athletes bring elite technical skills shaped by different training environments around the world, and that impact is already evident in competition. Hornung opened his first season at FSU with a three-set single victory over the University of Florida’s Andreas Timini, while Duval began her collegiate career with a win on court two alongside sophomore teammate Gella Andrew against the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Between competitions, both students continue to balance academics while adjusting to life in the U.S.; a process Kennell said requires more than language development.

“I’m so amazed by these students,” he said. “They’re managing their classes and Division I athletics, where the pressure is on them to perform. They’re high-achieving personalities who want to do their best, but they also need to learn about self-care and mental health, so we talk about that, too.” 

For Duval, the course has strengthened not only her language skills but also her understanding of American culture.

“This is so important,” she said. “It’s not only the language, even if the language is the most difficult part, but it’s also about the culture and why people are acting like that here, because it’s so different from France.”

For Hornung, the first Hungarian native to play tennis for the Seminoles, the impact of the course will extend far beyond his time at FSU.

“I will think about this class my entire life,” Hornung said. “It’s made a huge impact on me.”For more information about CIES, visit cies.fsu.edu. To learn more about FSU’s global footprint, visit global.fsu.edu. 

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Florida State University has announced it will offer a new admissions plan to prospective undergraduate students applying for the summer and fall 2027 entering class.

FSU’s Office of Admissions will introduce a binding Early Decision option for domestic first-year applicants, expanding opportunities for students who have identified the university as their unequivocal first choice. Applications open Aug. 1.

After a record year of nearly 100,000 applications and a 48% increase in first-year applications over the past five years, Early Decision will allow more students to receive an admissions decision earlier in their senior year of high school.

“Each year, more students tell us that FSU is their top-choice university, and they want to know how to indicate that on their admissions application,” said Hege Ferguson, assistant vice president for undergraduate admissions. “Early Decision is a clear, transparent way to allow students to express that preference while giving them the benefit of an earlier admission decision and a streamlined application process.”

The significant rise in applications coincides with recent record-breaking student success at FSU. The school recorded a 97% first-year retention rate last fall, which placed it at No. 4 in the nation among public universities, and a record 78% four-year graduation rate, placing it at No. 9.

Within the state of Florida, FSU ranked No. 1 among public universities for student satisfaction and best value by The Princeton Review, No. 1 for best first-year experiences by U.S. News & World Report, and No. 1 among honors programs by College Transitions.

“I am grateful for all that our faculty, staff and students have done to make FSU such a special place and one of the most sought-after universities in the country,” said Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “Early Decision builds on that momentum by giving students who already know FSU is right for them another admissions option.”

“Early Decision is a clear, transparent way to allow students to express [their top-choice] preference while giving them the benefit of an earlier admission decision and a streamlined application process.”

– Hege Ferguson, assistant vice president for undergraduate admissions

Early Decision is a binding plan, requiring that applicants not apply Early Decision to other institutions. FSU will require a written agreement signed by the student, a parent or guardian, and the student’s high school counselor.

Early Decision will run concurrently with FSU’s existing non-binding Early Action option, which remains available exclusively to Florida residents. Both Early Decision and Early Action will share an Oct. 15 application deadline, with decisions released on Dec. 17.

Students admitted through Early Decision must withdraw all other college applications and submit their enrollment deposit to FSU by Jan. 15, 2027.

Students applying early will remain eligible for need-based financial aid and institutional scholarships. FSU’s Office of Admissions says students considering Early Decision should use the Net Price Calculator to estimate potential costs and financial aid eligibility. Financial aid information will be shared shortly after admission decisions are released to support informed family decision making, provided students complete the FAFSA by Dec. 1.

Early Decision will not be available to those applying to FSU through talent-based programs (Acting BFA, Athletics, Dance, Film, Music, Music Theatre, Stage Management BFA, and Studio Art BFA) or the CARE Summer Bridge Program.

Regular Decision and rolling deadlines will continue to be available for students who prefer greater flexibility. A full list of the 2027-2028 application plans, dates and deadlines can be found on the FSU First-Year Dates & Deadlines page.

All applicants, regardless of application plan, will continue to be evaluated through FSU’s holistic review process. The Office of Admissions considers all aspects of an applicant’s record, and no single criterion guarantees admission.

Visit the FSU First-Year Decisions page for eligibility guidelines, timelines and frequently asked questions.

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A Florida State University master’s student and Presidential Scholar was accepted into a highly competitive national fellowship program for emerging civic leaders.

Ella Garcia, who is working toward her master’s degree in public administration, was accepted into the Coro Fellows Program housed at University of Missouri-St. Louis.

The Coro Fellows Program was founded in 1947 in San Francisco to train young World War II veterans in civic leadership skills. It now operates four centers in St. Louis, San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York, where it serves to advance civic engagement and accelerate the careers of those in public affairs.

As a Coro Fellow, Garcia will live in St. Louis and participate in a full-time, graduate-level leadership training program that includes seminars, interviews with local leaders, opportunities to learn about regionally specific topics, and placement in organizations across nonprofit, business and government sectors.

“I’m excited because it’s going to be very fulfilling to focus on the aspect of public administration that’s about giving back, not just pursuing my own professional goals, but learning how I can better the communities around me,” Garcia said. “It’s one thing to study administration and government in a theoretical way, but it’s another to apply what I’ve learned hands-on. It’s what I feel like I’m called to do.”

From Mount Dora, Florida, Garcia is a member of FSU’s Presidential Scholars Program. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and will graduate with her master’s degree this summer with support from FSU’s More in Four program, which helps high achieving students complete a bachelor’s degree in three years and continue immediately into a master’s degree.

Professors and mentors say Garcia’s involvement at FSU has prepared her well for the Coro Fellows Program. That includes her participation in FSU’s Applied Politics & Policy Learning Experience (APPLE) program, in the Department of Political Science, where she was able to intern for a state representative and a member of U.S. Congress.

“Ella has used her time at FSU to gain extensive hands-on government experience and advanced analytical skills, with the aim of driving informed, community-oriented public service,” said FSU professor Amanda Driscoll, cofounder of APPLE and one of Garcia’s mentors. “The Coro Fellowship will provide her with additional public service experience and practical leadership training to deepen her impact and professional growth. I am confident that she will translate her established civic commitments into effective, real-world solutions, and we can’t wait to see what she will accomplish next.”

Garcia’s interest in policy work extended beyond U.S. government last summer, when she traveled with a group of FSU Honors Program students to the Oxford Consortium of Human Rights workshop at the University of Oxford in England.

“Ella is among the finest students I’ve worked with at Florida State,” said Ross Moret, who led the trip to Oxford and serves as an associate teaching professor in the FSU Honors Program. “She is dedicated, responsible, insightful and caring. She will make an outstanding Coro Fellow.”

As a Presidential Scholar, Garcia said she enjoyed mentorship and a peer community that helped motivate her to reach her goals.

“FSU and the Presidential Scholars Program specifically have been instrumental for me,” she said. “It’s really shaped who I am, as a leader and as a person.”

To learn more about student support for pursuing national fellowships, visit the Office of National Fellowships and the Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards.

Visit the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy website to learn more about the college, department and programs.

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Florida State University’s Career Center recently honored its final group of Garnet & Gold Scholars, culminating 16 years of student achievement and impact. Thirteen students were inducted at a ceremonial celebration breakfast.

Established in 2010, the Garnet & Gold Scholar Society was created to recognize students who engage in meaningful experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom. Since then, experiential learning has become a defining component of the undergraduate experience and has been integrated into the CoreFSU curriculum for all students.

Reflecting on the legacy of the program, Li P. Pon, senior assistant director for Experiential Learning, emphasized the collective commitment and success of the Garnet & Gold Scholar Society. Its prominence is a result of the efforts of its founders, current leadership, overall program advisors, area contacts, area approvers and FSU Career Center’s Experiential Learning team.

“The Florida State University Career Center extends its sincere appreciation to those whose dedication has sustained the Garnet & Gold Scholar Society throughout the years,” Pon said. “We are deeply grateful to our administrators, campus partners and colleagues for their commitment to undergraduate student success.”

Each student received a medal and was celebrated for their honorable level of dedication and discipline for international experience, internship, leadership, research and service beyond the classroom.

2026 Garnet & Gold Scholar Society Honorees
(listed alphabetically by last name):

Marcy Bedaw, Biological Science, Palm Harbor, FL

Jude Bogusz, Nursing, Orlando, FL

Constanza Cescato, Behavioral Neuroscience, Rosario, Argentina

Patrick “Joey” DeMarco, Exercise Physiology, Jacksonville, FL

Grace Elliott, Behavioral Neuroscience, Clearwater, FL

Mia Gold, Biological Science; Russian, Tampa, FL

Richard “Richyie” Gonzaga, Psychology, Miami, FL

Isabelle Krukoski, Editing, Writing, and Media; Media and Communication Studies, Montverde, FL

Amber Losciale, Cyber Criminology, Inverness, FL

Rachel McCann, Finance; Marketing, Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Marissa Rouse, Information Communication Technology; Digital Media Production, Cincinnati, OH

Emma Sag, Behavioral Neuroscience, Wellington, FL

Hannah Squier, Biological Science; Economics, Stuart, FL

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