From Dream to Reality: My Transformative Journey at the University of Florida and the Innovation Academy

By Erika Burst

My journey at the University of Florida and the Innovation Academy (IA) has been transformative, both academically and personally. As a Business Administration major on the pre-law track, I’ve faced challenges that pushed me out of my comfort zone and shaped me into a more confident and capable individual.

The University of Florida has always been more than a dream—it’s been a goal I’ve worked hard to achieve. I knew early on that being accepted into a top-tier school like UF required dedication and effort. I vividly remember touring the campus while dropping off my older sister at her freshman dorm, Springs Residential Complex. In that moment, I felt a deep connection and knew UF was where I belonged, fueling my determination to make it a reality.

In high school, I immersed myself in clubs, sports, and activities, discovering a passion for involvement, leadership, and creativity. By senior year, learning about IA felt like the perfect way to further these interests while aligning with my future goals. On February 24, 2023, my dream came true—I was accepted into the University of Florida and IA. This program perfectly aligned with my passions and marked the beginning of an incredible journey, one I’m grateful to be a part of.

When spring arrived, I walked into my first Innovation class with a mix of nerves and excitement. Our first assignment was to laser-cut a personalized name tag—a task that felt completely out of my depth. Determined to succeed, I attended TA office hours daily, learning and refining my skills until I created a name tag I was proud of. Holding the finished product was incredibly rewarding and proved my ability to overcome challenges. This initial experience set the stage for a transformative journey in the IA, where I continued to push my boundaries and build confidence.

One of the defining moments of my UF journey was participating in the Summer 2024 Catalyst Competition through IA. My team and I designed the “Health Jackpot,” a slot machine-inspired prototype created using a cardboard box and an Arduino kit. Out of over 30 teams, we won 1st place for “Best Prototype,” a proud achievement reflecting weeks of hard work, creativity, and collaboration.

This experience pushed me further and helped me grow in unexpected ways. Collaborating with peers was both challenging and enlightening, testing my adaptability, communication, and problem-solving skills. Despite setbacks, the process reinforced the importance of teamwork, being open to feedback, and persistence in overcoming obstacles.

Early in my college journey, I made it a priority to seek out opportunities that aligned with my passions and goals. I joined Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity and now serve as Assistant Director of New Member Orientation, organizing events to help new members feel supported. Within my sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, I serve as Vice President of Campus Relations, working closely with the Panhellenic community to foster unity and organize events that strengthen chapter bonds. As Assistant Chairperson for Kesem, I support a nonprofit helping children impacted by a parent’s cancer, ensuring a safe and resilient environment for those we serve.

Beyond these roles, I’m an Ambassador for Flipping the System, where I help raise awareness about sexual assault prevention and consent through outreach and educational efforts. These experiences have enriched my campus involvement and helped me grow as a leader, collaborator, and advocate, laying the foundation for my future aspirations.

Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal goals has been one of the most significant challenges of my time at UF. Finding time for fitness and wellness was initially difficult, but I’ve learned that effective time management isn’t just about filling a packed schedule—it’s about prioritizing and setting boundaries. Using a paper planner has been essential for staying organized and motivated, allowing me to check off tasks and feel accomplished. While there have been moments of struggle, I’ve learned to take a breath, stay calm, and trust that everything will get done in time.

Thanks to the opportunities and successes I’ve had at the University of Florida, this summer I’ll be studying abroad in Florence, Italy. During this six-week program, I’ll immerse myself in a new culture while continuing to expand my education and gain a global perspective. Afterward, I’ll intern with my hometown city mayor from Coral Springs, Florida, Scott Brook, assisting him in his duties and gaining experience at his family law firm. I’m eager to apply my academic knowledge in a professional setting, gain hands-on legal insight, and further deepen my passion for the legal field.

My time at UF and in IA has been a journey of challenges, triumphs, and growth. Each experience—whether it was winning a competition, joining extracurriculars, or overcoming hurdles—has shaped who I am today. I look forward to what lies ahead and hope my journey inspires others to embrace their paths with determination and curiosity.