For as long as he can remember, Florida State University sophomore and Presidential Scholar James “LJ” Dunphy has had a fascination with weather and a knack for data-driven science. Now, those interests have led him to be named a recipient of one of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) most competitive awards.

Dunphy, a meteorology and applied mathematics major in the College of Arts and Sciences from Tampa, Florida, has been selected as a recipient of the NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship. His research strives to make machine learning-based weather forecasts more accurate and less computationally demanding.

“What we’re looking at is trying to reduce those input parameters so we can save time and compute, while actually increasing forecast accuracy,” Dunphy said. “If we can just get a little bit more accurate forecast, we can have more accurate evacuation orders and better prepare the public for scenarios like hurricanes and tornadoes.”

The Hollings Scholarship Program provides awards up to $9,500 a year in financial assistance for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a NOAA facility during the award’s second-year summer.

“LJ has been developing next-generation algorithms for AI-based weather models. I have never encountered a sophomore with such a high level of self-motivation and research talent,” said Zhaohua Wu, professor of meteorology and Dunphy’s research mentor. “Some of his results even surpass those reported in recent papers. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him.”

Dunphy’s interest in meteorology was shaped by experiences with severe weather in Florida and beyond.

“Weather, being from Tampa, has always impacted me,” he said. “Hurricanes are kind of the first thing that come to mind and they impact us up here in Tallahassee, too. This is something I’ve always been surrounded by, and something I’ve always been interested in.”

His double major allows him to combine physical science with advanced computation, as machine learning becomes increasingly important in weather forecasting.

“[NOAA’s]  mission of protecting life and property has been a very important part of protecting my community. To be able to have the opportunity to give back is just something I’m really, really grateful for.”

– LJ Dunphy, FSU student and Hollings Scholarship recipient

“What I specifically want to go into in meteorology is the modeling part and forecasting,” Dunphy said. “My applied math major really, really helps with that, with understanding all the algorithms that go into it. So, it gives you the physical understanding from meteorology and the technical computational side from applied math.”

Dunphy applied for the Hollings Scholarship after encouragement from D. Craig Filar, associate dean of Honors, Scholars, and Fellows and director of FSU’s Presidential Scholars Program.

“When we invited LJ to be a part of the Presidential Scholars program, we knew he would do incredibly high caliber work in meteorology,” Filar said. “His recognition as a Hollings Scholar demonstrates his capacity for impactful and innovative work in the field of meteorology, and it speaks to his strong character to want to connect predictive modeling with improved notifications to protect communities. LJ will utilize this opportunity to expand his learning and experience in a manner that will serve his field well; I am incredibly proud of LJ for his recognition with the Hollings Scholarship program.”

As part of the scholarship, Dunphy will complete a 10-week NOAA paid internship next summer after his junior year and provide him with the opportunity to work at nearly any NOAA office nationwide.

“NOAA has always been a big part of my life,” Dunphy said. “Their mission of protecting life and property has been a very important part of protecting my community. To be able to have the opportunity to give back is just something I’m really, really grateful for.”

Dunphy recognized the role FSU’s academic environment and research opportunities played in helping him reach this milestone.

“All the resources that FSU has given me have been really, really immensely helpful,” he said, crediting the Presidential Scholars Program, the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and mentorship from faculty in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science.

Looking forward, Dunphy urges fellow students to aim high and take chances, even if those opportunities seem out of reach.

“The only reason I got to where I am now is just because I put myself out there,” he said. “You’d be really surprised where your abilities take you, especially when you’re really passionate about something. The worst they can say is no.”

For more information about scholarships and fellowships, visit FSU’s Office of National Fellowships.

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Florida State University has retained first-year students from their fall to spring semester at a record 99.2% rate, one of the highest in the country, and a testament to the school’s commitment to undergraduate student success.

First-semester retention measures the number of students who stay enrolled at the university from their first fall semester to spring semester. During the 2025-2026 academic year, 6,425 entered as first-year students and 6,374 stayed enrolled for the spring.

“We’re proud to sustain nationally recognized graduation and retention rates and to have a new university record with a 99.2% fall-to-spring retention,” said FSU President Richard McCullough. “These outcomes reflect the holistic support and engagement we provide students, helping them feel at home at FSU and succeed in an academically invigorating environment.”

FSU broke a record in first-semester retention during the 2022-2023 academic year, reaching 99% for the first time. FSU’s investments in student success continue to result in record-breaking retention and graduation rates.

The university recently established the new Student Academic Success division, appointing former Dean of Undergraduate Studies Joe O’Shea as its new vice president. He leads the university’s comprehensive efforts to recruit, retain and graduate an accomplished student body.

“Across our university, we are collaborating and thinking strategically about how to deliver a rewarding college experience to our students,” said O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “Our fall-to-spring retention rates show that we take our commitment seriously to give all students from all backgrounds a world-class education at FSU and to set them up for success right away.”

In Fall 2025, FSU achieved its highest-ever 97% overall retention rate, which calculates how many first-year students stay enrolled from their first to second fall semesters. That number landed FSU No. 4 nationally among public universities. The most recently recorded national average retention rate from first to second fall was 82%, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

“Our fall-to-spring retention rates show that we take our commitment seriously to give all students from all backgrounds a world-class education at FSU and to set them up for success right away.” 

– Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success

Earlier this year, the university also reached a four-year graduation rate record at 78%, placing FSU No. 9 nationally among public universities.

“Fall-to-spring retention rates offer insight into a uniquely important chapter in a student’s life,” said DeOnte Brown, dean of Undergraduate Studies and acting director of the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE). “The fact that so many of our students who complete their first semester return to school after winter break shows that they are finding community, connecting with their professors, and accessing the resources that help them succeed. We’re proud of the work we do to help students feel at home from Day 1.”

FSU ranks No. 1 for Best First-Year Experiences among public institutions in Florida in U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges 2026” guidebook, a testament to the university’s exceptional support programs that drive student success and foster positive learning outcomes.

FSU runs an Office of Retention, which supports undergraduate students by helping them stay on track toward earning their degrees. It offers first‑year college transition and engagement programs, helping students overcome course registration challenges and connecting directly with students to offer additional guidance or resources.

Through the Office of Retention, the Engage 100 program manages first-year courses that introduce students to campus resources, academic skills and university life. Noles Everywhere connects students from out of state to peer leaders who help build support networks both on and off campus. The office also leads programs to support students who are repeating courses and campaigns that encourage timely graduation by promoting balanced course loads.

“Our mission is to ensure every undergraduate student feels supported as they navigate their academic journey, especially during the first year,” said Allison Peters, assistant dean of retention and academic engagement. “From innovative engagement programs to personalized outreach, we strive to help students build strong connections, effectively utilize university resources, and engage in meaningful educational activities.”

Recent investments in undergraduate student success have powered growth in the University Honors Program and Presidential Scholars Program, which serve high-achieving students with signature interdisciplinary courses, specialized advising, and dedicated housing, classroom and study space. The Honors Program was recently named No. 1 in the state of Florida.

FSU’s CARE for first-generation and Pell Grant-eligible students has grown to support nearly all students who qualify with funding, advising, mentoring, life coaching, study spaces and enrichment programming.

FSU offers 11 living-learning communities for first-year students, which allow students to live on campus with peers who share similar interests. FSU has earned the No. 1 spot among public schools in Florida on U.S. News & World Report’s Learning Communities list in the publication’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings.

The university operates the Advising First network of academic advising and guidance for students before they are admitted into their majors. Advising First runs specialized programs that include College Life Coaching, the Center for Academic Guidance and advising for students in the Exploratory major.

For more information about FSU’s Division of Student Academic Success, visit academicsuccess.fsu.edu.

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Florida State University’s Honors Program was ranked No. 1 in Florida by the college ranking publication College Transitions, a resource for high school students and college counselors and the primary source for honors college rankings.

On its 2026 list of “50 Best Honors Colleges,” College Transitions ranked FSU No. 17 nationally among all honors colleges and programs.

While some universities offer separate honors colleges, FSU offers a comprehensive program designed to meet student needs. The program placed No. 6 among honors programs on College Transitions’ list using methodology that considers selectivity, benefits and program rigor.

“Our Honors Program has seen so much exciting growth in the past few years, thanks to President McCullough’s visionary investments,” said DeOnte Brown, dean of Undergraduate Studies. “We’re proud to offer a vibrant community that nurtures highly inquisitive students, engages them in a dynamic academic experience with their peers and prepares them for a future where they can thrive out in the world.”

The Honors Program has grown during McCullough’s tenure from about 400 per class before 2023 to more than 800 in the Fall 2025 class. It is the only Honors program in Florida that has a dedicated faculty who design Honors Signature Courses — interactive, interdisciplinary classes available exclusively to Honors students.

Ten full-time Honors faculty members offer courses on a variety of topics such as superheroes and ethics, coffee and culture in the U.S. and gaming in the ancient world.

“I’m so grateful for the dedication of our faculty and staff across campus who mentor, teach and support our remarkable students every day,” said Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “We are honored to serve the brightest scholars from across Florida and elsewhere so they can thrive as leaders in their fields and strengthen the future of our communities.”

“The Honors Program at FSU was such a meaningful part of my undergraduate experience. It gave me incredible professors and engaging courses, but most importantly, an amazing community and friendships that lasted throughout my time at Florida State.”

– Hayley Schermer, FSU Honors graduate

Former Honors student Hayley Schermer, who graduated in December with a cell and molecular neuroscience degree, is working as a patient care assistant in the Neuro and Cardiac Intermediate Care Unit at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare while she prepares to start medical school in the summer.

“The Honors Program at FSU was such a meaningful part of my undergraduate experience,” Schermer said. “It gave me incredible professors and engaging courses, but most importantly, an amazing community and friendships that lasted throughout my time at Florida State.”

Students can live in Honors housing in one of two centrally located residence halls and have dedicated program advising. They have access to classrooms, study spaces, gathering areas and resources such as advising, the Office of National Fellowships and the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement in the Honors, Scholars, and Fellows House.

More than 200 students are enrolled in Honors in the Major, an opportunity within the Honors Program that provides students from any major the chance to engage in graduate level research, either with an original thesis or creative project.

Last summer, the Honors Program debuted its new Honors Global Experiences program in London, where 15 students traveled with Honors Associate Director Michael Furman to explore the city and surrounding areas while taking the Honors Signature Course “In the Footsteps of the Ancients: Roman Britain.”

Hayden Thomas is a senior political science and economics Honors student from Tampa who is studying abroad at the FSU London Study Center and interning at a United Kingdom policy organization.

“The Honors Program gave me a community of intellectually curious student leaders who pushed me to grow academically, professionally and personally,” Thomas said. “That foundation made it possible for me to pursue transformative opportunities, including serving as president of the Honors Student Association, conducting research through Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program and Honors in the Major, and engaging in immersive professional experiences.”

To provide more opportunities for students, FSU has also doubled the size of its Presidential Scholars Program in recent years. Presidential Scholars is FSU’s premier undergraduate merit scholarship program that invests in students who stand out for their potential to be transformational leaders.

There are now 60 students admitted to each class of the Presidential Scholars Program, where students engage in a four-year sequence of learning and community engagement that focuses on four foundational tenets: wisdom, leadership, service and character.

On top of the generous scholarship funding, students in the program receive financial support for enrichment opportunities such as international study or service, internships, research and creative projects, and more.

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For the fourth time in five years, the president of Florida State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) was elected to serve as chair of the Florida Student Association (FSA).

Carson Dale, a native of Columbia, Missouri, was inaugurated as FSU’s 80th SGA president in April and elected chair of the FSA in May. As FSA chair, Dale has a vote as a seated member on the Florida Board of Governors, which oversees the State University System of Florida (SUS). He was elected to represent the student bodies of all 12 of Florida’s public universities, serving more than 430,000 students.

Dale follows former FSU SGA presidents Jack Hitchcock, Nimna Gabadage and Nastassia “Tazzy” Janvier in assuming the dual roles.

“One of the biggest things I’m excited for with FSA is to get more students involved to help us lobby on higher education and on issues that are important to students,” Dale said. “It’s a really unique position to serve at the state level, Board of Trustees, and Board of Governors as a 21-year-old and represent all the students. Getting to learn from them and hearing the keys to their success in life—it’s exciting.”

As president of FSU’s SGA, Dale oversees a budget of nearly $15.4 million and has a voting seat on FSU’s 13-member Board of Trustees. Dale will serve on both these posts for the term of one year while taking a full class load in both fall and spring semesters.

He is majoring in international affairs with a concentration in public administration and is set to graduate in May 2026.

Being from the Midwest with no direct ties to FSU, Dale said he Googled and saw FSU’s beautiful campus and liked the thought of being in the state capital to pursue a career in politics. He arrived in 2022, and during his freshman year founded the Theta Xi chapter of Delta Sigma Phi chapter. Dale is also a member of the Presidential Scholars Program.

“We are incredibly proud of Carson’s election as chair of the Florida Student Association and his leadership position on the Florida Board of Governors,” said Andy Johnson, program director of Student Governance & Advocacy under the Division of Student Affairs. “He brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to statewide advocacy, and we’re confident he’ll represent the voice of Florida’s students with integrity and vision.”

Dale said he is looking forward to working closely with FSA External Vice Chair Darsham Gonzalez (Florida Atlantic University) and FSA Internal Vice Chair Trista Bennett (University of West Florida).

“We have a great group of individuals,” said Dale. “I feel well supported in having their backing to achieve great things.”

Long-term plans for Dale after graduation include law school and lobbying, and he has an interest in political consulting. In his spare time, Dale said he likes to hike, fish, camp and backpack, as well as attend FSU football games.

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Four recent Florida State University graduates have been awarded the 2025 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, a highly competitive five-year fellowship that supports outstanding students pursuing research-focused graduate degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Eight current FSU students and alumni also received honorable mentions in the latest program.

The fellowship provides three years of financial support, including an annual stipend of $37,000 and recognizes both the recipient’s undergraduate and current graduate institutions. By investing in early-career researchers, the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP) aims to strengthen the quality and capacity of the U.S. scientific and engineering workforce.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and alumni who have been recognized by the NSF GRFP,” said Craig Filar, associate dean of Honors, Scholars, and Fellows. “The range of disciplines and the recognition of researchers at various times in their student careers demonstrates the breadth of preparation and training our students receive in STEM disciplines across campus from their first year through their doctoral work that have led to so many of our students and alumni being recognized for their innovative work as fellows and honorable mentions.”

A native of Tampa, Sebastian Castro (B.S. ‘25 chemical engineering) worked on research projects focused on clean energy and water solutions while at FSU, including splitting water to produce hydrogen, converting carbon dioxide into useful products and developing membranes for desalination.

He began his collegiate journey through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), which was enriched by his involvement in the Presidential Scholars Program and the Student Engineering Leadership Board.

Castro credits the guidance from faculty and staff as instrumental throughout the fellowship application process, adding: “FSU has supported me every step of the way.”

Castro’s research centers on advancing sustainability through electrochemical processes, a foundation he will continue to build on by improving electrochemical transformations and developing technologies for industrial-scale environmental remediation. This fall, he plans to begin his doctoral degree in chemical engineering at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering.

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to receive this fellowship. Beyond the validation of my efforts, it represents the culmination of years of hard work across my coursework, research and extracurricular activities.”

– Sebastian Castro

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to receive this fellowship,” Castro said. “Beyond the validation of my efforts, it represents the culmination of years of hard work across my coursework, research and extracurricular activities. After earning my doctorate, I plan to work in industry, where I hope to contribute to the global energy transition. My goal is to help overcome key challenges in the design and optimization of electrochemical devices to enable their widespread industrial implementation.”

Nicholas Volya (B.S. ‘23 biochemistry) has focused on advancing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) through the development of radiofrequency amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (RASER) technology while at FSU. His research aims to re-engineer the MRI detector cavity and exploit RASER physics.

A Tallahassee native, Volya is a third-year doctoral student in physical chemistry at North Carolina State University.

“FSU was tremendously impactful on my academic and scientific journey. Every professor encouraged and challenged me to think with clarity and precision.”

– Nicholas Volya

“FSU was tremendously impactful on my academic and scientific journey,” he said. “Every professor encouraged and challenged me to think with clarity and precision, particularly my undergraduate Principal Investigator, Robert Lazenby. He provided the encouragement and resources that allowed me to fully engage with research, and I was proud to be a member of his lab throughout my undergraduate career.”

The NSF GRFP fellowship will support Volya’s current research in the Thesis Lab at North Carolina State University and his plans for a career as a research professor.

“My work on RASER technology is exciting, and I believe it has the potential to fundamentally change how an MRI is performed,” Volya said. “If successful, it could influence the methodology of all magnetic resonance experiments — an ambitious but motivating prospect. My long-term aspiration is to pass on the knowledge and support I have received by becoming a mentor myself.”

Brandon Patron (B.S. ‘20 biological science) returns to FSU in the fall to begin his doctorate in clinical psychology where he will research the effects of early life adversity on adolescent psychological development with consideration to underlying neurobiological mechanisms.

“FSU, and in particular the Children’s Learning Clinic, has provided amazing mentors and support,” said Patron on bridging his biological and psychological journey at the university. “I’ve had the chance to work with amazing researchers and clinicians who have given me insight into intervention research and the time and resources to work on my NSF GRFP proposal. I also had an immense amount of support and guidance from Director and Research Faculty, Leah Singh, who helped review my materials and provided a recommendation.”

“FSU, and in particular the Children’s Learning Clinic, has provided amazing mentors and support. I’ve had the chance to work with amazing researchers and clinicians who have given me insight into intervention research and the time and resources to work on my NSF GRFP proposal.”

– Brandon Patron

Patron expresses gratitude for the NSF GRFP Fellowship which will allow him to focus on his research, exempting him from typical assistantship requirements.

“This fellowship will allow me to spend all my extra time ensuring my research ideas are cutting edge and novel to the literature,” Patron said. “It’s validated my work and assured me that I am indeed worth a career in research.”

Long term, he hopes to open his own research clinic, similar to FSU’s Children’s Learning Clinic, to serve the community, conduct intervention research and formulate precision medicine in response.

“My clinic would differ in that it would focus more on the effects of early life adversity on pathways, such as those of stress and emotion regulation, and how interventions that involve both parent and child can be catered more to the individual family,” Patron said.

Luis E. Blanco (B.S. ‘18 chemical engineering) completed his undergraduate studies at FSU, where he focused on computational protein engineering, biomechanics and microfluidics. After graduation, he co-founded the startup Diatech Diabetes with fellow FSU alumnus John Wilcox. The company addresses issues that patients using diabetes care technology experience.

“FSU is truly unique in how easy it is to build close friendships and get involved,” Blanco said. “I learned to apply for jobs, I started my company, met my wife and made lifelong friendships. I always tell people: ‘FSU attracts some of the smartest and most talented people who also know how to have a good time.’ That combination created an environment where I felt inspired, supported and challenged to dream bigger.”

“FSU is truly unique in how easy it is to build close friendships and get involved. I learned to apply for jobs, I started my company, met my wife and made lifelong friendships. I always tell people: ‘FSU attracts some of the smartest and most talented people who also know how to have a good time.’ That combination created an environment where I felt inspired, supported and challenged to dream bigger.”

– Luis E. Blanco

Blanco has focused primarily on infusion monitoring systems, leading the development of machine learning algorithms to detect insulin delivery failures and conducting preclinical studies and designing sensor-driven research tools.

“Receiving the NSF GRFP is truly life-changing, for me and my family,” Blanco said. “The fellowship has given me clarity, confidence, and financial support to fully commit to this next chapter of my life. At Diatech, we’ve maintained a strong focus on research and have published several articles over the years, and pursuing a doctoral degree will help formalize and mature the skills I’ve developed there.

Blanco will begin a doctorate in mechanical engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) under the supervision of Mechanical Engineering Professor Sumita Pennathur. He seeks to build on his experience by diving deeper into emerging fields like nanotechnology, AI and optics.

“This award brings rare flexibility. I can be more intentional in designing a project that’s both technically ambitious and personally meaningful while building impactful collaborations across UCSB,” he said.

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A Florida State University Presidential Scholar has won a prestigious scholarship through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in recognition of his work studying the effect of fires on air quality. 

Matthew Azuara, a meteorology sophomore from Guilford, Conn., has been awarded the Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship, which includes financial assistance plus a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a NOAA facility next summer.  

Azuara’s research at FSU has focused on the emissions from agricultural burning practices in the eastern United States. Burning crop residues at the end of the season can release particulate matter and greenhouse gases that can have adverse health effects on nearby communities and the environment. Azuara seeks to get a better look at potential differences from crop to crop.

“We’re trying to build the database of agricultural pilot fires and then break it down by crop type,” Azuara said. “Meteorology is always something I’ve been interested in since I was very, very young.”   

He began his research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), where he worked under the mentorship of Christopher Holmes, an associate professor in the Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Science.  

Azuara’s work with Holmes extends beyond UROP and centers on using new satellite-based instruments to measure greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions from fires. 

“Matthew’s selection as a NOAA Hollings Scholar recognizes his outstanding academic record and strong potential to impact the field of atmospheric and environmental science,” Holmes said. “Matthew has done excellent independent research over the last two years. He should be very proud of this research work and his many other accomplishments at FSU.” 

Through the Hollings internship opportunity next summer, Azuara will work closely with a research mentor and gain hands-on experience at an NOAA facility of his choosing. The scholarship also covers travel expenses for an orientation meeting and the annual Science & Education Symposium, where scholars present their research findings. 

“It’s going to be such a big steppingstone for me – a really big opportunity – because I’m going to be able to network with so many people,” Azuara said. “This is going to show me what’s possible.”  

 For more information about FSU Office of National Fellowships, visit onf.fsu.edu.  

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Florida State University Chemical & Biomedical Engineering and Department of Economics student Kailen Christian strives to help others acclimate to campus life through her work as a learning assistant and the director of the Freshman Leadership Institute. Christian studied abroad and expanded her academic perspective with the global citizen certificate program.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

Growing up, my family always adored FSU. As a big football fan, my dad always said he would have gone to FSU if he grew up in Florida. When college applications came around, I undoubtedly knew I wanted to apply. On a whim, I decided to apply for the Honors Program. I was shocked and ecstatic to find out that I was selected as a semi-finalist for the Presidential Scholars Program. The program required an in-person interview, so in April of 2022 my family took a weekend trip to FSU. The trip solidified that FSU was the place for me. The moment I learned about my acceptance and scholarship award, I didn’t hesitate for a moment and accepted. Having the opportunity to come to college with a cohort of peers eased my fears and was something that I did not want to pass up. Since my first few days in Landis Hall, I have loved my experience here.

What was an impactful academic experience you’ve had at FSU?

My biggest dream was to study abroad. I wanted to travel to at least one new country before I graduated. I decided to study abroad at FSU’s Republic of Panama campus where I could finish my math and physics prerequisites. This was a life-changing experience and opened my eyes to the global possibilities available with an engineering degree.

I enrolled in the global citizen certificate program through the Center for Global Engagement (CGE). Through my sustained experience, my coursework and various intercultural events, I was able to bring new perspectives into my academic path. I have enjoyed meeting people in the global citizen certificate program and the CGE community, as it has exposed me to things I would not have otherwise encountered.

How have you served the community while at FSU?

In January 2023, I began mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend. My involvement ignited my passion for mentorship and community, especially within the STEM field. There are many opportunities to help the community and create change in Big Brothers Big Sisters. My freshman year, I organized a donation drive with the Presidential Scholars Program that collected over 10 bags of clothing and small household items for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Clear the Clutter Drive. This experience was incredibly rewarding.

I also led a service trip through the Florida State Alternative Breaks program. I worked with Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis, Florida, and the Center for Leadership and Social Service to make the service trip a reality. My experience with these organizations redefined accessibility and inspired me to find solutions within the biomedical engineering industry.

What kinds of impact have you had on the FSU community?

I have been working with Kassie Ernst and Sophia Rahming to optimize the curriculum for the First-Year Engineering Lab as a learning assistant (LA). I absolutely love being an LA because it allows me to meet aspiring engineers with different backgrounds and inspire other Black or female engineering students to stick with it. Helping new students acclimate to campus and find engineering organizations they relate to has been a full circle moment, as those same organizations allowed me to grow and thrive.

I was also selected as the director of the Freshman Leadership Institute, which is an executive project within FSU’s Student Government Association. Last year I served as the facilitator of operations, where I was able to help plan workshops, lead a small group of incoming students in a peer-mentorship relationship and manage overall participant relations. This year as director, I hope to elevate the program to a new level by further strengthening the bonds in the peer mentorship program and throughout small groups.

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Florida State University will greet an outstanding group of incoming freshmen this fall as the new academic year begins Monday, Aug. 26.

The Class of 2028 joins the Florida State family as the university continues to build upon an excellent record of student success. FSU’s latest graduation and retention rates set school records last year: 75 percent of FSU students graduated in four years, and 96 percent of freshmen returned for their sophomore year.

FSU received 79,400 applications for about 6,000 spots in its first-year class. The students admitted this year continue to rank among the most academically distinguished in the university’s history, with an average GPA of 4.4, a combined SAT score of 1390 and an ACT composite score of 31.

The admitted class includes students from all 50 states, all 67 Florida counties and 48 countries. Outside of Florida, the top five states for newly admitted students are Georgia, New York, New Jersey, Texas and Illinois.

Twenty-one percent of admitted students are among the first in their families to attend college or university. The five most popular majors for incoming freshmen are business, engineering, biological science, exploratory and chemistry/biochemistry.

Other notable items for the upcoming academic year include:

• The university’s graduate programs will enroll about 3,000 new students this fall.  The university received over 18,500 applications, which is the third-highest number ever for graduate applications. FSU’s graduate enrollment is now close to 10,000 students across all programs.
• FSU hired more than 200 new faculty for the second consecutive year.
• This year, 6,707 students will live in one of FSU’s 18 on-campus residence halls. University Housing offers a variety of living styles for undergraduate and graduate students.
• The Presidential Scholars Program — the premier undergraduate merit scholarship at FSU — will welcome its largest cohort of first-year students in history with 60 students joining the program this fall, increasing from 48 in last year’s class.
• The university’s competitive Honors Program is up to more than 750 students, well above last year’s first-year cohort of 600.
• Welcome FSU is offering an array of events and activities to kick off the fall semester through Friday, Aug. 30. These events are a great way for students to learn about campus resources, ways to get involved and how to make FSU and Tallahassee home.
• The FSU football team opens its season at the 2024 Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland, against Georgia Tech at 12 p.m. Saturday, Aug 24.

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Sebastian Castro found a welcoming and supportive environment at Florida State University and was drawn to its programs and campus beauty.

As a Presidential Scholar, he said he received invaluable support and connected with a special community of students.

Castro conducted research at Caltech’s WAVE Fellows Program and attended the Hispanic Scholarship Fund’s STEM Summit to broaden his knowledge and network.

He served as regent of the Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity, where he aimed to enhance brotherhood and professional growth.

As a member of the Student Engineering Leadership Board, Castro contributes to enriching student life while promoting mentorship and research opportunities.

How does FSU stand out to you?

From the beginning, it was clear how much this university cares about its students. I was drawn to programs that would enrich my undergraduate experience and allow me to find community. I also love how beautiful the campus is, including its nature, study spaces and architecture. I was fortunate to be selected as a Presidential Scholar, which has provided me unmatched support and a space to connect with other scholars. The resources and community at FSU have made it feel like home. 

What have been your favorite professional experiences?

Last summer, I performed research at Caltech’s WAVE Fellows Program. My project’s objective was to better understand the role of cation in heterogeneous electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2R). This is an avenue for renewable energy. but improving selectivity is essential for industrial implementation. I investigated how an organic additive impacts the cation effects in copper-catalyzed CO2R. I found ratios of cations that yield the highest performance for the lowest cost.  

In the fall semester, I was selected to attend the Hispanic Scholarship Fund’s STEM Summit. This program selects high-achieving students in STEM from all over the country to attend a two-day conference that develops scholars through mentorship, professional insights and career guidance. I connected with leaders in the industry and learned about potential career opportunities. 

How do you give back to the FSU community?

Last semester, I served as regent of the Phi Delta chapter of Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity. I joined Theta Tau my first semester in college, and it has provided me with a strong community. My involvement with the fraternity has helped develop as a leader in our three pillars; brotherhood, service and professionalism. My role was to lead the executive board to efficiently run the chapter. I was also responsible for finding creative solutions to any problems we faced and providing advice to my board, chairs and brothers. My goal was to give back to my brothers and help them grow as I have. My mission has been to develop and improve the chapter and to leave it better than when I joined. My time in Theta Tau has been the most transformative and fulfilling experience of my college career.  

I am also a member of the Student Engineering Leadership Board, which consists of student leaders in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering with the purpose of representing engineering students and enriching student life on campus. Through the mentorship subcommittee, we have developed a mentorship program in the college geared toward first-year engineering students. Many students don’t fully understand their major and are not on the engineering campus until they’re upper-class students, so the goal of this committee is to ease that transition. The research subcommittee connects students on campus with valuable research opportunities. Since many students are not aware of the resources available to them, we are working on creating a centralized online portal through which students can easily find and apply to research groups. 

What has been your biggest takeaway from being a part of such a rigorous academic program?

Most of my work has been directed toward improving the experiences of engineering students. The engineering undergraduate degree is intensive and the course load can take a serious toll on people. Nonetheless, I believe that finding a community and taking advantage of available resources is important for supporting the well-being of my peers. By addressing these with my efforts, I hope to make people’s lives at the College of Engineering better. 

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These Spring 2024 Florida State University graduates have worked hard to reach this moment, and all have unique stories about their time at FSU. From research to community involvement, their experiences have shaped who they are and prepared them for what’s next.

Conor Andrich

Sarasota native Conor Andrich completed his Master of Arts in Museum and Cultural Heritage Studies (MCHS) in the Department of Art History. During his two years at FSU, Andrich pursued his interests in vernacular art — a genre of visual art made by self-taught artists — and community-centric heritage.  

“I decided to attend FSU because the MCHS program presented what I saw to be the perfect balance between the conceptual/theoretical elements of art history and the practical elements of museum work,” he said. “I have really broadened my horizons both intellectually and professionally through this program.” 

While attending classes at FSU, Andrich worked with the Carrabelle History Museum, a small museum with a local focus on the panhandle town of Carrabelle, helping them catalog their collection and create oral histories with community members. He also interned at Everglades National Park in the South Florida Collections Management Center.

“I am proud of the work I have done with the Carrabelle History Museum, which tells the story of Carrabelle through objects that are sourced from the community,” Andrich said. “The Carrabelle History Museum is a labor of love and the truest reflection of its community, and I believe that is what museum work, at its heart, should be about.” 

After graduation, Andrich will work at the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum in Hollywood, Florida, where he will assist in the cataloging, conservation and curation of a 200,000-object collection of Florida Indigenous art, artifacts and material culture. 

“I am eager to contribute to the preservation of Indigenous history and knowledge, as well as to a greater public understanding of the fact that Indigenous cultures remain vital today, especially in Florida,” he said. 

Narjes Dridi

International student Narjes Dridi earned her Ph.D. in chemistry and biochemistry from the College of Arts and Sciences this semester. Born and raised in Tunisia, the northernmost country in Africa, Dridi wanted to pursue a doctorate in the U.S. because of its reputation in scientific research.  

She learned about Florida State from her chemistry professor at the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis in Tunisia, where she earned her master’s degree. His daughter had started her doctoral studies in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at FSU and touted the program’s interdisciplinary nature.  

After a two-year application process and five years of research, Dridi made the dream of completing her Ph.D. a reality.

“I met so many people, including my best friend who’s a visiting scholar, got two pet cats, traveled to different states, tried new cuisines and learned about different cultures and, most of all, I feel proud of myself for finally getting my Ph.D.,” she said. 

Dridi’s research focuses on the clinical application of nanomaterials. Her primary project makes polymer coatings and inorganic materials biocompatible for clinical applications like drug delivery and cancer detection.  

“Using my research to detect cancer enzymes is my favorite application so far,” Dridi said. “If any cancer enzyme is detected in the sampled blood, the solution’s color would change, indicating its presence, which could allow the user to get treated in the earlier stages of the disease. It’s almost like an at-home pregnancy test: easy to read and saves time, energy and money.” 

Nanomaterials are toxic and not yet safe for medicinal use, but Dridi’s goal is to become an entrepreneur and use her research to develop functional nanotechnology materials to benefit society and the environment.  

Following graduation, Dridi will remain in the U.S. to continue learning about the business and technology industry as the next step in her journey of making “nanotechnology truly useful for everyone.”

Julie Kuper and Tessa Spaulding

Julie Kuper, a first-generation college student from Naples, Florida, graduated with a doctorate in criminology. What could make it more meaningful? Her sister, Tessa Spaulding, is graduating, too, with a bachelor’s in editing, writing and media. 

“This is a really special moment for us,” Kuper said. “I am beyond excited to just enjoy and drink that in. Our family gets to gather here, all in one place, just to celebrate and dream up what the future might hold.” 

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Nadia Rassech, an undergraduate student studying international affairs and Middle Eastern Studies, and Yeimy Roberto, a Ph.D. candidate majoring in Hispanic linguistics, received the 2024 Global Citizen Award from FSU’s Center for Global Engagement (CGE).

The award recognizes outstanding students who have actively engaged in intercultural initiatives on campus or abroad and who have exemplified leadership in fostering a global community among FSU students.

“The CGE is proud to recognize these outstanding students and we appreciate the contributions they have made in helping create a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all cultures,” said Cindy Green, CGE director.

Yeimy Roberto

FSU’s renowned faculty, robust research opportunities and keen sense of community are what inspired Roberto to attend Florida State.

“I knew that studying at FSU would not only provide me with a top-notch education but also endless opportunities for personal and intellectual growth,” said Roberto, a native of Bogota, Colombia.

In her five years in Tallahassee, Roberto has been involved in many organizations. She served as president of the Hispanic Graduate Student Association (HiGSA), treasurer for the Sigma Delta Pi Spanish Honors Society and volunteered with Good News Outreach, a local non-profit organization.

“Adapting to a new academic environment, cultural norms and social dynamics required open-mindedness and support from professors and peers,” she said. “I decided to immerse myself in cultural activities, joining student organizations and building a support network to overcome language barriers and homesickness.”

In 2023, Roberto earned the Sigma Delta Pi Summer Research Grant and the Winthrop King Summer Research Grant. In 2021, Roberto was awarded the Kerr Fellowship in Leadership, established in honor of the late Monsignor William A. Kerr (1940-2009) to assist international graduate students.

She has been recognized as an outstanding alumnus by Universidad Industrial de Santander, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English language teaching.

“I have become more confident, social and adaptable, navigating the challenges of studying abroad with determination and compassion,” Roberto said. “I have also developed a deeper understanding of and appreciation for cultural diversity, fostering empathy and my interactions with others.”

While living in a new country comes with challenges, Roberto has a deep appreciation for all the opportunities FSU has to offer, especially for international students.

“Despite these challenges, the experience has been invaluable, broadening my horizon, expanding my worldview and enriching my personal and professional growth,” she said. “By embracing new experiences, diversity and resilience, I have developed a deeper appreciation for cultural differences and cultivated lifelong skills beneficial to my academic and professional journey.”

As she prepares for a faculty position after graduation, Roberto says her time at FSU instilled in her a sense of determination, confidence and dedication to excellence.

“The best part of my FSU experience has been the sense of community and belonging,” Roberto said. “Overall, the sense of camaraderie and mutual support within the FSU community has made my experience truly memorable and fulfilling.”

Nadia Rassech

Rassech was drawn to FSU from California because of the university’s international opportunities and academic rigor.

“With so much uncertainty during the college application process, one thing I knew for sure was that I wanted to study abroad to build my global perspectives, cross-cultural communication skills and knowledge of language and international politics,” she said.

Studying abroad became a reality for Rassech when she traveled to Halle, Germany, for an internship with a refugee aid organization.

“This experience expanded my understanding of global issues and refugee protection, as well as other models for government and civil society resettlement programs,” she said.

Rassech has been involved in many organizations during her time at FSU. She’s in both the Presidential Scholars program and the Social Science Scholars program and has served in leadership positions with Amnesty International at FSU, the Arabic Honor Society and Alpha Omicron Pi. She is also an assistant at FSU’s Middle East Center and lives on campus in the Arabic Language House, an initiative that provides students with a living environment where they can practice Arabic beyond the classroom.

“The Middle Eastern Studies program is truly my home away from home,” Rassech said. “I am incredibly thankful for the professors, mentors, peers and lifelong friendships that I have made as they have been crucial to my academic, professional and personal development these past three years.”

Rassech also credits the CGE and its community as another pillar of her FSU experience. She completed the Global Citizenship Certificate program and has volunteered with the English Conversation Partner Program. This semester she was selected to attend the 2024 Florida International Leadership Conference (FILC), an annual event that brings together more than 150 domestic and international students from Florida colleges and universities to engage in a weekend of leadership learning activities.

“Through the CGE, I have learned to take a more active role in initiating and reflecting on cross-cultural exchanges, a skill that will be helpful as well as continuously fostered as I spend my next year abroad,” she said.

While pursuing her academic interests, Rassech has also served as a volunteer coordinator for the International Rescue Committee in Tallahassee, where she’s been assisting in the resettlement of an Afghan family. Through the University Honors Program, Rassech was part of FSU’s second cohort to participate in the Consortium for Human Rights at the University of Oxford last summer.

All Rassech’s hard work and dedication culminated in her winning the 2024 FSU Undergraduate Humanitarian of the Year Award.

“I would not be on the path that I am today if it were not for the communities I have found at FSU,” Rassech said. “It is due to these communities that I have constantly been supported and encouraged to enter these positions. I have gained experience but also the confidence needed to believe that I can push myself further and continue to grow in these spaces.”

After graduation, Rassech plans to take Arabic language courses over the summer while furthering her study of international refugee law in Oman, which borders Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. She will further these studies in the fall at the Arabic Language Institute in Fez, Morocco.

Rassech plans to apply to the U.S. Critical Language Scholar Program and Fulbright programs. She hopes to study international law with a concentration on refugees.

“This award shows my own progress in expanding my global perspective these past three years but also gives me courage in the footing I have, which will carry me into Morocco next semester,” Rassech said. “I hope to honor this award and the efforts of the CGE by continuing to grow as a global citizen moving forward in my academic and professional career.”

For more information about the CGE and the Global Citizen Award, visit cge.fsu.edu/intercultural-programs/global-citizen-awards.

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Florida State University will welcome another impressive freshman class to campus this fall as the new academic year starts Monday, Aug. 28.

“We are so excited to welcome this freshman class to Florida State University,” said President Richard McCullough. “FSU is a wonderful and beautiful campus — very friendly and welcoming — and we’re so proud of our freshman class that’s coming here this year. They are among the best students that have ever entered Florida State University, and we are here to make sure that each and every one of them experiences student success at the highest level.”

The new class joins the Florida State family as the university continues to set ambitious goals around research and academic excellence, student success, entrepreneurship and innovation.

FSU received close to 75,000 applications for a first-year class of about 6,000 students. This year’s admitted students continue to be among the university’s most academically accomplished. They boast an average GPA of 4.4, 1350 total SAT score and an ACT composite score of 30.

The admitted class includes first-year students from all 50 states, all 67 Florida counties and 61 countries. Outside of Florida, the top five states for newly admitted students are Georgia, New York, New Jersey, Texas and Illinois.

Twenty-two percent of admitted students are among the first in their families to attend college or university. The five most popular majors for the incoming freshmen are business, engineering, biological science, exploratory and psychology.

FSU is committed to investing in growing its programs for high-achieving students, and that investment is paying off. The Presidential Scholars Program — the premier undergraduate merit scholarship at FSU — will welcome its largest cohort of first-year students in history with 48 joining the program this fall. In addition, the university’s competitive Honors Program has grown exponentially from about 400 incoming freshmen to a class of about 600.

The university’s graduate programs, which are among the best in the nation, will enroll approximately 3,100 new graduate students this fall, representing a 12 percent increase. Graduate applications were up 33 percent for the new academic year with the university receiving a record 23,035 applications. FSU’s graduate enrollment is now close to 10,000 students across all programs.

This semester, FSU also welcomes one of its biggest cohorts of international students with approximately 600 undergraduate and graduate students arriving in Tallahassee. The group hails from 74 nations with India, China and Panama as the three most-represented countries.

Other notable items for the upcoming academic year include:

• More than 220 new faculty in disciplines across the university are joining FSU this fall.
• This year, 6,700 students will live in FSU’s 18 on-campus residence halls. University Housing offers a variety of living styles for undergraduate and graduate students.
• Welcome FSU is offering an array of events and activities to kick off the fall semester through Sunday, Sept. 3. These events are a great way for students to learn about campus resources, ways to get involved and how to make FSU and Tallahassee home.
• CANCELED – New Student Convocation has been canceled due to weather. Continue to check alerts.fsu.edu for updates regarding campus closures.
• The FSU football team opens its season in Orlando against LSU at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 3. Students are invited to a watch party in the lower level of the Student Union, featuring multiple viewing screens, giveaways and food.

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