Long before Florida State University became known for its research enterprise and nationally ranked academic programs, the arts were helping shape the life of the university.

Music, theater and visual arts were among the earliest academic offerings at the institution that would become FSU, predating many of the STEM and professional programs taught at the university today.

Over the decades, those programs have grown into nationally recognized schools in music, film, theater, dance and design while bringing world-class artists, exhibitions and performances to campus.

Today, as Florida State celebrates its 175th anniversary, the arts remain central to the university’s identity by enriching campus life, connecting the university with the community and preparing generations of artists, performers and creators.

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Florida State University students looked to the future during a Discovery Days panel on opportunities in STEM, when a lineup of FSU research and academic leaders came together to inspire attendees to see how their education can translate into a wide range of career opportunities. 

The event, “Unlock Your Future: Career Paths for STEM Graduates,” offered students a chance to hear directly how STEM degrees can be applied in evolving fields beyond traditional academic paths. 

“Your time at Florida State University is profoundly impactful in shaping who you are as a person. Your academic life is just one part of the college experience — what truly defines this time are the relationships you build, the challenges you embrace and the moments that help you grow beyond the classroom as you become the person you’re meant to be.“

— Stacey Patterson, Vice President for Research

“Your time at Florida State University is profoundly impactful in shaping who you are as a person,” said Vice President for Research Stacey Patterson. “Your academic life is just one part of the college experience — what truly defines this time are the relationships you build, the challenges you embrace and the moments that help you grow beyond the classroom as you become the person you’re meant to be.” 

During the discussion, panelists offered insights and guidance through a lineup of experts who shared their professional journeys in fields such as medicine, laboratory science, university administration and corporate leadership. 

The panel featured FSU Vice President for Research Stacey Patterson, College of Medicine Dean Alma Littles, MagLab Director Kathleen Amm, Director of Laboratory Animal Resources William Hill, Associate Vice President for Strategic Partnerships and Innovation Valerie McDevitt, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Professor David Larbalestier and Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Associate Program Director and Core Faculty for the Family Medicine Residency Matthew Standridge. 

Attendees were encouraged to think beyond traditional roles and consider how their STEM degrees could open doors in unexpected places. 

“There are so many opportunities out there, and people don’t need to be afraid of exploring them and that’s what makes it exciting,” Amm said.  “Even if you choose one path, you can always pivot later. The world is open to you, especially early in your career.” 

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Florida State University invites alumni, students, parents and friends to the 2024 Homecoming celebrations from Saturday, Nov. 16 through Sunday, Nov. 24. This year’s theme, “Tuned in to Tradition,” will bring a week of events filled with Seminole spirit and legacy.

For the first time this year, there is an opportunity to meet the Homecoming Court at a caricature station, drawn by the court itself, on Friday, Nov. 15. Attendees can help create a banner during Paint the Groove that will be showcased during the Homecoming parade.

Some of the time-honored festivities include the Homecoming Live pep rally, alumni events and Friday’s Homecoming parade leading up to the Homecoming football game against Charleston Southern on Saturday, Nov. 23. Adding a touch of tradition to the game day atmosphere, the Homecoming Chief and Princess will be revealed during halftime.

A full schedule of events is listed at homecoming.fsu.edu.

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