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Parent Department University of Florida

When Innovation Meets Opportunity

By David DeVore

My name is David DeVore. I am a senior computer science major in the Innovation Academy here at UF!

David DeVore

Hi everyone! As I get closer and closer to the end of my time here, I think back on all I will have accomplished from school to internships and everything in between. As awesome as those experiences have been, I am always left feeling unsatisfied and wondering if I am prepared enough for what lays ahead in my career. Yet, the beginning of the rest of my life is finally upon me and I find myself wanting to spend as much time (if not, more) growing personally outside of my studies as I do on my career itself. I plan to spend a lot of time traveling between now and my graduation date, enjoying this season in my life and learning more about myself so that I can be more than a former University of Florida student.

My biggest piece of encouragement for you is to start getting to know yourself sooner than I did. Work hard on your academics, and even harder on learning more about who you were created to be. As you put in the work to try and get accepted into the Innovation Academy, or land a job, internship, or other experience you have your sights set on, remember that growing as a person adds value to who you are. Learn those soft skills like leadership, communication, and team building that will not only help you land the position but will also equip you for other areas of your life. When you do get into the Innovation Academy, take advantage of all of the resources they offer to help you do exactly what I am talking about. Spend time growing with other Innovation Academy students to learn more about yourself outside of your degree and learn from the different people you encounter when doing so. Make sure to spend time getting to know the faculty and staff at the Innovation Academy and allow them to guide you through your time at UF and into your career.

The best part about being a Gator, especially in Innovation Academy Gator, is the people you get the pleasure of meeting. Make sure you take the time to build those relationships, and truly enjoy them for what they are. Remember that they are more than just connections to add to your network, but true friendships that will add depth and richness to your life. It may sound cheesy, but at the end of the day, the people we meet and the impact we have on those around us is what it’s all about. Having Gator Nation behind me as I go into my future increases my confidence, and I hope you remember that, not only during your time as a student here, but for the rest of your life and in all that you do! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have! Go Gators!