How UF is celebrating First-Gen Week 2025

From courtroom competitions to brain cancer research, the University of Florida is recognizing the work of first-generation students from Nov. 3-8.

Finding her voice: UF student turns first-gen journey into a path to the courtroom

When UF criminology student Sarah Hoffer stands before a panel of judges in a courtroom, she feels entirely at home. But the confidence she projects today is something she had to build through resilience, mentorship and a deep belief in herself.

Turning questions into cures, UF student Cali Love helps transform brain cancer treatment

Both science and ceramics are rooted in the idea that you’re going to fail. This ebb and flow is all part of the UF graduate school journey for Cali Love, a first-generation college student, artist and Texan-turned-Gator who is pursuing the M.D.-P.h.D. Training Program in the College of Medicine and exploring the intersection of cancer biology and neuroscience.

For first-generation UF student Ivanna Milian, ‘the only option is to succeed’

From her first days in elementary school, Ivanna Milian’s family nurtured her path to becoming a first-generation college student. As they drove to school each morning, her father peppered her with positive affirmations.

Celebrating first-generation students in the UF College of Pharmacy

On Nov. 8, the UF College of Pharmacy joined institutions nationwide in honoring the First-Generation College Celebration. Each year, nearly 1 in 5 incoming student pharmacists at UF are the first in their families to attend college. In recognition of the day, the UF College of Pharmacy is sharing the stories of first-gen student pharmacists who are embracing the challenges of college life and thriving along the way.