From Doubts to Discoveries: My Journey with UF’s Innovation Academy

When I first started at the University of Florida and joined the Innovation Academy, I had no idea what to expect. I assumed the innovation classes would be some extra weed out classes, something that would have little to no impact on my personal or professional growth. But looking back now, I can confidently say that IA has played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. The lessons I’ve learned, the skills I’ve gained, and the opportunities I’ve had have been invaluable both personally and professionally.

The Innovation Academy has truly redefined what it means to be a student at UF. It’s not just about academic excellence; it’s about fostering a mindset that values creativity, adaptability, and initiative. One of the most important takeaways from IA has been learning to think outside the box, not just academically, but in all aspects of life. Many students believe that excelling in classes alone is enough to land internships and secure jobs, but the truth is, that’s only a miniscule part of it. IA taught me how to actively seek out opportunities, build meaningful relationships, and present myself as a unique candidate in competitive spaces. These skills became especially useful when I got more involved on campus and took on leadership roles in cultural organizations like the Asian American Student Union and the Indian Student Association. Whether it was planning events, leading teams, or navigating professional settings, my ability to think creatively and adapt quickly made all the difference.

The power of innovation isn’t just about coming up with new ideas; it’s about making connections and putting yourself out there. IA has empowered me to take risks and go after what I want with confidence. It’s easy to think opportunities will come naturally as you progress in college, but the reality is that success often comes from taking the initiative. Cold calling professionals, reaching out on LinkedIn, and attending networking events may feel intimidating at first, but those small steps can lead to life-changing opportunities. The earlier you start, the better. Every conversation, even if it doesn’t lead to something immediately, is a chance to learn, get advice, and build relationships that can help you in the future. Never be afraid to make the first move. People are more willing to help than you would think, especially when they see you taking the initiative to grow.

For those reading this and thinking, “Oh, she probably had it all figured out from the start,” let me tell you no one enters college knowing exactly what to do. It’s a completely new environment filled with challenges, and figuring things out takes time. If I could offer one piece of advice to incoming UF and IA students, it would be to take full advantage of the resources around you. The Career Connections Center, office hours, mentorship programs, and even casual conversations with professors and peers can open doors you never expected. Connections won’t happen unless you create them.

These lessons have directly contributed to some of the incredible opportunities I’ve had, such as participating in the Young Development Program for Women of the Workplace and the Fellowship Development Program for Product Space. Every experience, whether successful or not, has helped me grow. And if there’s one thing IA has reinforced, it’s that rejection isn’t a reason to quit; it’s a reason to keep learning and improving. Use those rejections as motivation to strive and accomplish more. The more you reach out, the more confident you become, and eventually, those relationships you build will open doors you never even imagined.

For anyone considering IA or still navigating their career path, my biggest advice is to take risks and step outside your comfort zone. Apply for that internship, join that organization, go to that networking event, and don’t hesitate to reach out to someone who inspires you. Each experience will shape you in ways you can’t predict. And if you ever feel lost, remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to IA alumni, professors, and make friends—there’s always someone going through or who has gone through the same experiences as you, eager to share their experiences and offer personal support.

Looking ahead, I know my own journey is just beginning. But one thing I’ve learned is that taking the first step, even when you’re unsure, is always worth it. IA has given me the tools, mindset, and confidence to keep moving forward, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful. The Innovation Academy is truly one of the most transformative programs at UF, and I hope everyone can take these lessons with them as they continue to navigate their own path for success.