by Kylie Coolican

Gaining work experience through internships while in college may seem daunting at first. Often times companies will want varying levels of previous experience or want you to work 15-20 hours a week, which may be difficult to balance with schoolwork. I have had the awesome opportunity to hold 3 internship positions in college so far, two remote during the school year and one in person during the summer. The summer internship experience is one that is quite popular with college students, but I feel like not a lot of students know about remote internship experiences during the school year. Having a remote internship is great for college students because it allows them to be able to intern while still taking classes. Oftentimes, remote internships during the school year are more flexible in hours and your work schedule because the internships understand that you still have to take classes and get schoolwork done. You can also find paid remote internships which could help you with school-related expenses.

Finding the right remote internship can be tricky, but I would like to share some helpful tips that allowed me to get my internships. The first tip is to search on various job sites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Google Jobs, as well as others. My second tip is to apply to any and all internships that look like they could fit your skill set. I applied to at least 80 positions between the two remote positions, and I interviewed for only around 4 positions and got the two offers. In addition, read the job descriptions and see how many hours they want you to work or if the position is full-time or part-time. This will allow you to know which positions you would be able to work completely, as you don’t want to accept a position that requires more hours than you are able to handle with school. I would also recommend keeping track of where you apply to. My next tip would be to make sure you are clear on whether it is a paid opportunity or not. There are many remote internships that are paid, but there are two things to keep in mind when it comes to how they might pay you. My first remote internship was paid hourly every two weeks, while the other internship paid me a stipend that was disbursed roughly every two weeks. For internships that pay a stipend, they might not give the stipend until the internship program is completed, or it is paid out in various installments so be sure to keep an eye out for when you get paid. When it comes to the interview phase of getting an internship, my three biggest tips are to mention how open you are to learning and gaining new skills, to be upfront with your class schedule as well as how many hours you could realistically contribute to the position, and make sure you do research on the organization so that you can answer questions honestly and accurately.

Internships are great for gaining work experience, as well as allowing you to further know what you want to do when you graduate, and potentially an internship could lead to a full-time position. You could also do an internship for credit which could help you gain the credits necessary for obtaining your degree. CLAS students can earn up to 3 credits per semester through IDS4940, which you can learn more about on the Beyond120 website! Overall, having my internship experiences allowed me to narrow down my future career options as well as helped to gain professional skills. Happy internship hunting!

by Amelia Spicola, 4th year Microbiology Major

College is often touted as the time of your life when you'll gain independence, explore new horizons, and make lifelong memories. For me, that promise became a reality when I embarked on a 4-week journey studying abroad in Pontevedra, Spain where I spent over 80 hours shadowing physicians in a local hospital. This immersive experience, organized by the University of Florida's "UF in Pontevedra" program, not only enriched my understanding of Spanish culture but also deepened my passion for medicine.

The foundation of my transformative experience lay in cultural competency and immersion. Spain, with its rich history and diverse traditions, was the perfect setting for this. This included traditional Spanish cuisine like tapas, watching local festivities, and learning about the nuances of Spanish customs and traditions. One of the most eye-opening experiences was the "siesta" culture. In Spain, the afternoon break is not merely a nap but a cherished part of daily life, symbolizing the importance of relaxation and work-life balance. This cultural insight taught me the value of slowing down and savoring life's moments, a lesson that has stayed with me beyond my time abroad. One of my primary goals was to improve my Spanish proficiency, and the trip provided the perfect environment to achieve this. My daily interactions in Spanish, both inside and outside the classroom, pushed me to become a more confident and fluent speaker. By the end of the four weeks, I was having meaningful conversations with locals and confidently conversing in a new language.

Another exciting aspect of the program was the opportunity to travel to four different countries during our time in Europe. Beyond Spain, I explored Portugal, Switzerland, and Italy. Traveling broadened my horizons and exposed me to diverse cultures, languages, and histories. It was exhilarating to witness firsthand the cultural collage that is Europe, and these adventures ignited a lifelong love for travel and exploration.

Studying abroad is not just about places; it's about people too. The "Beyond120 Excursion" introduced me to a diverse group of fellow students from various backgrounds and majors. Together, we shared the joys and challenges of adapting to a new culture and a new language for many of us! I went with 11 other students I had never met prior to the trip. The friendships I forged during those four weeks were truly special. We supported each other through the culture shocks, and the bonds we formed remain strong even after returning to the United States. These connections opened my eyes to the importance of diversity, fostering global friendships that I cherish to this day.

As a pre-med student, the shadowing component of the program was a significant draw. I had the privilege of shadowing healthcare professionals at local hospitals, gaining invaluable insights into Spain's healthcare system. I spent over 80 hours shadowing physicians and I was able to observe several specialties up close, including anesthesia, OBGYN, emergency medicine, intensive care, urology, and more. The experience was truly life changing and cemented my love for medicine, showing me that all my hard work was worth it and encouraging me to pursue my medical dreams with a new vigor. This experience deepened my passion for medicine and expanded my understanding of healthcare practices beyond my home country.

Taking part in the program was undoubtedly the best college decision I ever made. It was a journey that transcended traditional learning, offering me cultural competence, language development, a profound appreciation for diverse cultures, and a global perspective on medicine. This adventure not only enriched my academic and personal growth but also left me with a treasure trove of memories and friendships that I will carry with me throughout my life. My time in Spain was a transformative experience that reinforced the idea that stepping beyond your comfort zone can lead to the most rewarding and unforgettable adventures.

by Annika Thiim

Before beginning my second year at UF, I sought out opportunities to get involved in the Gainesville community through a service-based organization. While I had found several organizations offering occasional community service events, I was hoping to find an organization that I could commit to for the coming three years. I was looking for an organization that I could grow within, as an aspiring physician hoping to become more aware of community issues and also as a leader. I am grateful to have joined the Pre-Health Scholars (PHS) program, because it has been exactly what I was searching for.

During my first semester being in PHS, I was in a service group with four students whom I had never met before; it was special to experience our shared passion for finding ways to help the community despite being newly acquainted. At our first meeting, my group bounced around several different ideas for our monthly projects: writing letters to hospice patients, baking desserts for dining hall staff, conducting campus cleanups, and playing with kids at the local daycare center. I appreciated the independence to choose our own focus for community service. My favorite service project from Fall 2022 was visiting the kids at Baby Gator Daycare during Thanksgiving time, where we sat down with the kids to color turkeys on Thanksgiving-themed coloring sheets. Although this was a simple activity, seeing the joy in their eyes while getting to be creative and make new friends was heart-warming; I ended up returning to Baby Gator a few different times because this was such a special experience.

The following semester, my group took a different and more laborious approach to our service projects: we used two of our monthly meetings to construct outdoor sheds at the Helping Hands Medical Clinic that are now used to house medications, medical supplies, and other necessary materials. The construction of these sheds required teamwork as we all took on different roles to maneuver the walls and roof together while screwing them together with a power drill. I enjoyed this collaborative effort and found it very satisfying to see a tangible representation of our hard work.

All in all, the freedom granted by PHS to choose service projects that aligned with my passions has been invaluable. Moreover, the program's inclusivity impressed me, fostering a belief that no limit exists on the amount of good we can do for our community. As an aspiring physician, I've always found fulfillment in helping others with health-related issues. However, PHS has reminded me that this sense of fulfillment extends beyond medicine; it's found in providing service for non-health-related issues as well. Any act of service, no matter how simple, can create profound connections and joy.

by Henry B. Valdivia

I am currently writing this from Bangkok where I am having the opportunity of a life time, which would not have been possible without the Beyond120 Pre-Health Scholar Program.

I am a sophomore biology major in the Beyond120 Pre-Health Scholar program graduating 2026 following a pre-professional path.  The Beyond120 program is a professional development program that interested me because both the course work and experiential learning opportunities go beyond the ‘classroom experience’ and teach real world introduction to the process of the medical profession.  This program encouraged me to go beyond the classroom, which is how I find myself in Bangkok this summer.

My journey to Thailand began in the Fall of 2022 when I received an email from Ms. Knickerbocker regarding the Equal Access Clinic Network.  The EACN is a UF Medical School run program which assists the local community in Gainesville and has on-going medical research programs.  I applied and was accepted to work as a research assistant working with the Mobile ECG study at one of the clinics. This has been an invaluable experience working with the local community in Gainesville and an opportunity I would not have found without the continual updates from PHS and its mission to keep students informed on potential research opportunities.

 Working at the Equal Access Clinic Network actually opened my eyes to the prospects of helping other communities, which led to me finding the UF in Thailand Program. PHS has a mission to help students learn beyond the hard sciences and get insight into how people of other cultures experience health care.  The program stresses the need for patient centered, well rounded pre-professional students and that is exactly what led me to look for my summer internship in Thailand.

I am currently working at Thammasat University Hospital volunteering full time, rotating between transfusional medicine, physical therapy, radiology and preventative and corrective medical device maintenance, while immersing myself in a culturally unique healthcare system.  I am having the opportunity to learn from and work with Thai professionals which is helping me grow as a future medical student, using teamwork and collaboration, while recognizing and appreciating the differences in cultures and how I can learn from a different perspective. The Beyond120 PHS program helped make this opportunity a reality by awarding me a scholarship to help pay the expenses of this trip.

Yesterday I spent the afternoon working with a group of Buddhist Monks who came into Thammasat University Hospital to give blood.  Without the PHS program I would never have had the opportunity for this experience and the ability to expand my understanding of global diversity in health care.

by Victoria Stachowiak

In the sixth grade, I made a presentation about what I wanted to be when I grew up. Imagine an 11-year-old girl, likely with a bow in her hair and pink shoes, saying she wanted to be an FBI agent. It sounds like she had been watching too much NCIS. I had little knowledge about how to achieve this dream or what the job would entail. Overtime, the answers would become clearer. I would major in Criminology and Psychology with a minor in Arabic with the intention to join the Navy and attend law school. However, I still didn’t know much about being an FBI agent aside from what I had read online. That would change after an opportunity provided by Beyond120.

When I received an email about an FBI excursion hosted by Beyond120 I was immediately interested. We would go the FBI Tampa Field Office, everything was already arranged, lunch would be provided, and all I had to do was apply. After submitting my application and being accepted, I started to craft my questions. Attendees were told there would be a Q&A panel with FBI agents and then we would tour the building. The experience was unreal and I learned invaluable information. I was able to hear from Special Agents about their journeys to the FBI, their current role, and all the possibilities available throughout the bureau. For me, this excursion cemented my decision to join the FBI when I am eligible. While on this trip, I could envision myself working for the agency and it filled me with excitement for my future after graduation.

Being a Beyond120 ambassador for the past year, I have been able to participate in countless events to help students improve their professional skills or explore experiential opportunities. This program demonstrates that there is more to college than simply earning your degree. During your four years, you can engage in activities that help prepare you for life after college. After attending the FBI excursion in Tampa, I now understand why the excursions are so popular and beneficial to students. There are certain things you can’t learn in class and I am so grateful I was able to go. I am excited for my future with Beyond120 and, hopefully one day, with the FBI.

by Caroline Kware

As a freshman, I added a Beyond120 course: Professional Pathways to my first semester schedule on a whim at orientation. It was an incredibly helpful class as a freshman who had no idea where to start when it came to the professional world. Professor Braun clearly cared about giving his students the best material to prepare them for a professional life. It made applying for internships and opportunities easy and I know I will carry on what I learned throughout my schooling and my career.

When I saw the Beyond120 excursion to New York application, I was excited to apply and even more excited when I got the acceptance. I did not know what to expect but it was definitely one of the most valuable parts of my freshman year. I met a group of older, more experienced students who had great insights into different experiences inside and outside of UF. I met the great UF faculty that made this trip possible and wanted us to get the most out of the trip and all the company visits. And I met great alumni who seemed to want all Gators to succeed. They were open and friendly and they offered great advice. It was amazing to talk to students who were in the same spot I was in a few years ago and see how far they had come.

We visited many companies (Gannett, TransPerfect, Whatif Media, and more), with some career paths I had never heard of or considered. All of the companies were welcoming and gave us great information on what they do, and they graciously answered all of our questions. Since getting back, I’ve already started to adjust my resume as well as looking into applying to a few opportunities I learned about. As a freshman, I can already tell that the Beyond120 program will change the trajectory in a positive way for my next three years at UF and beyond.

by Judah Lebofsky

As a university student, I believe that some of the most fulfilling experiences and opportunities are those that are unexpected. When I began my journey at the University of Florida in the fall of 2019, I had an open mind and was eager to learn and grow. Little did I know that my involvement with the Beyond120 and CLAS Scholars Programs would give me an amazing opportunity to pursue research and present my findings at the American Society of Criminology 2022 Annual Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Beyond120 research team helped me secure this opportunity and made it possible for me to participate in the CLAS Scholars Program. This program gave me access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities I would never have had otherwise. It allowed me to explore my academic interests and connect with other like-minded individuals who share my passion for research.

During my time in the CLAS Scholars Program, I was able to work on my research project titled "Generation 9/11: Fear of Terrorism Among Individuals Without Memories of the September 11th Attacks." Through this project, I explored how individuals born after the September 11th attacks fear the threat of terrorism to themselves and their families. This research was incredibly fulfilling and allowed me to explore a topic that I am passionate about.

The process of conducting research and presenting my findings at the American Society of Criminology 2022 Annual Meeting was a life-changing experience. It challenged me to think critically, work collaboratively with my mentors, and communicate my ideas effectively. The feedback I received from fellow scholars and academics was invaluable and has helped me refine my research skills.

This experience has also opened doors for me in terms of my academic and professional pursuits. It has made me excited about pursuing research at a graduate level and has prepared me for the challenges that come with academic research. The mentorship and guidance I received through the CLAS Scholars Program have given me the confidence to pursue my academic goals and aspirations.

I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity that Beyond120 has given me, and I encourage all students to keep an open mind and take advantage of unexpected opportunities that come their way. You never know where they might lead you! I believe that the key to success in college is to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself, no matter how unexpected it may be. Whether it's a research project, an internship, or a volunteer opportunity, each experience has the potential to open doors and provide valuable insights and skills.

The Beyond120 and CLAS Scholars Programs have shown me that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to explore new ideas and opportunities. I have learned that the journey to success is not always linear and that unexpected opportunities can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences of one's life. I am excited to continue my academic and research journey, knowing that there are endless possibilities waiting to be explored.

by Edwidge Labbe

During my second year at the University of Florida, I got seriously involved with the Beyond120 Program through the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. My first introduction to the program was in a video call with the Associate Director, Brittany Grubbs-Hodges. I told Britany how incomplete my college experience felt – that graduation was steadily approaching, and I had nothing to show for it in regard to the career I wanted to pursue. That specific summer, I had my heart set on securing an internship in Washington, D.C. because I always knew I wanted to be involved in the public sector in some capacity. From there, Brittany put me in contact with the Associate Director of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service, Marianne Vernetson, who connected me with internship opportunities, as well as individuals working in the DMV area.

Prior to the conclusion of our call, Brittany mentioned the Washington, D.C. excursion that the Beyond120 Program was hosting in May. As someone who was still getting adjusted to life on campus, I was completely unaware of the avenues and opportunities that were made available to social science majors at UF and how we can leverage our education into tangible job outputs.  Thankfully, I got to participate in the Washington, D.C. Excursion in May of 2022 where a group of 19 undergraduate students & I had the opportunity to visit places like the United States Capitol, the World Bank Group, and the headquarters of Gannett (to name a few). The excursion lasted for about five days and every single day yielded a different experience whether that be learning how to draft the perfect resume, examining the progression of the U.S. History through the paintings on the Rotunda, or understanding the University’s role in federal relations. Many of the sites and cities we visited had a lot of intentionality behind them – more often than not, we visited Gator Alumni who had recently graduated or were well seasoned professionals that were more than willing to offer their expertise in how they broke into their industries and the pathways they took to get there.

I think my greatest takeaway from the Washington D.C. excursion was to be willing to deviate from “the plan.” In my beginning stages of undergrad, I was very set on just graduating and pursuing the next thing – not really allowing myself to explore my interests or passions firsts. However, after listening to the stories of the alumni on that excursion and hearing how they finally found their footing when they were willing to choose the option that scared them the most, that’s when I began to deviate from my own “plan.”

Fast forward to the end of that excursion, I was able to secure an internship in D.C. where I worked as a legislative intern in the United States House of Representatives. To this day, I am very grateful for having been a participant on the Washington D.C. excursion because many of the Gator Alumni I connected with on that trip ended up being my mentors as I worked on Capitol Hill. It was relieving to enter a new city knowing that I was going to have a network of Gators from the Swamp who were willing to support me throughout my summer in D.C.

by Kylie Hay-Roe

“Tell me and I will forget, show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand.” -Confucius 

Through the Bob Graham Center for Public Service Washington Internship Program, I interned for the Office of Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24), on behalf of the UF Office of Federal Relations my Spring semester 2022. And just as the quote above expresses, I found being involved in public service, civic engagement, and participating in political and legislative processes while working on Capitol Hill was an indispensable window into understanding professions in government and Congress.  

I was immediately thrown into many of the communications, constituent outreach, and policy research duties that a congressional staffer handles daily. I quickly picked up on the need for time management and multi-tasking on Capitol Hill, as staffers typically juggle multiple policy issues, and committees in their research, stakeholder meetings, proposals, and legislative writing. I assisted in the appropriations processes, drafted memoranda, letters to colleagues, and even remarks and speeches for the Member. I also answered phone calls and performed administrative tasks for the office. 

Though tasks for my office varied day-to-day, in general, I found being self-motivated and adaptable was key. I relished in the research work I received, delving deeper into the policy issues, backgrounds, and associated organizations, agencies, bills, events, and advocacy currently underway. 

One of the most rewarding duties I performed involved constituent correspondence. Being able to impact and aid individuals through my internship served to reinforce my faith in government’s commitment to public service. 

I was unprepared for the level of kindness, friendship, and mentorship I received. My office was professional, but also laid-back and open. I never felt uncomfortable going to my supervisors with questions, and they often provided guidance and advice even when unprompted, which I greatly appreciated. Not only did my senior staffers “show me the ropes” of Capitol Hill, they also trusted me to figure things out on my own and handle new tasks capably. My confidence in my professional skills and abilities grew as a result. 

My internship was an unforgettable experience because it was eye-opening, empowering, and I learned so much about the industry and other career paths that appealed to me within public service. I recommend that anyone who is interested in politics, public service, or civic engagement try to experience working in a congressional office if they can, but also keep in mind the experience is what you make of it. Kindness always goes a long way! Ensuring that you show what makes you unique and genuine will help you connect with others who can aid you in your personal and professional journey.