Hi! My name is Anna born in raised in the Tampa area. I’m currently pursuing a double major in Environmental Science & Policy and Political Science, along with a minor in Spanish. One of my favorite things is making people feel comfortable, welcomed, and included. I chose USF because it offered everything I was looking for in a university: close proximity to home, outstanding professors and advisors, countless opportunities for jobs, internships, volunteering, and student organizations, as well as a beautiful and accessible campus. Through USF, I was able to study abroad in Seville, Spain, this past summer, where I became immersed in the Spanish culture, took two classes taught in Spanish, and made so many memories and new friends. Outside of academics, I love spending time in nature, supporting my favorite soccer team, FC Barcelona, and exploring new places while meeting new people. I love talking with prospective students and families, answering questions, and helping them envision what their future at USF could look like. Being able to share my school pride while supporting others would make being a tour guide incredibly rewarding.

Hometown

Clearawter, Florida, United States

Major(s)

Environmental Science & Policy, Political Science

Minor(s)

Spanish

Describe your college experience

My first year at USF Tampa is one that I will never forget. I commuted for the fall and spring semesters. Because I didn't have as much time on campus as my friends who lived in the dorms or apartments, I maximized my time there as much as I could. I loved going to the gym early before my classes to work out and rock climb before my classes. Grabbing a dirty chai at Kahwa in the bookstore is a routine I will greatly keep for my next 3 years. My favorite study spots are the Honors College for the prestigious, social experience and the 5th floor of the library when it's time to lock in for exams. The overall transition to college was rewarding but still hard and was not really talked about in my community or in high school. I made new friends, but it takes more effort to maintain your childhood friendships. I became more independent and confident spending time by myself during my solo commutes to campus, studying, and working. I think the most important thing I learned transitioning into college is learning about myself and not breaking my boundaries for peer pressure. While difficult in some ways, my first year of college has been the most rewarding year of my life in terms of new experiences and self-growth. I'm excited and proud to continue to be a bull for my next three years!!

Tip for future students

If you are less than an hour from campus, I would consider it at least for your first year to save money. Dorms and meal plans can seem like the normal thing to do for your first year but can be very expensive in the long run. USF is a very social campus with many events from school organizations and groups, so definitely try to get involved as soon as possible. There is an organization or group for you!

Favorite class

My favorite class was Chemistry 1, not because I've always loved or been good at chemistry, but because I didn't like it or know a lot when I started it. My high school chemistry professor was not very good at teaching the subject, so I vowed that I did not like the subject. I went into my first college chemistry class knowing maybe five elements on the periodic table and that's it. However, I ended the semester with an A in the class and my favorite class I took. This is because my chemistry professor taught the class well and made it fun with her witty and unpredictable personality. I also really enjoyed doing the mathematical equations and concepts. The class was still challenging, but in a way that made me want to keep studying to be better. Chemistry 1 helped me form a strong foundation to get an A in Chemistry 2 as well.

Career goals

After college I hope to take 2-4 gap years before grad school to travel the world through the Peace Corps, work for World Packers, or work for national parks. I also plan on doing a lot of internships related to environmental policy, advocacy, or analytics to gain experience. I'm still debating on whether to go to law school and specialize in environmental law or get a master's degree in environmental policy to be an environmental policy analyst.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night is to go to a new place with family or friends. I love going to new places, but I enjoy spending quality time with the people I love even more. I would end the day with a nice shower and enough time to read a book or watch a favorite TV show.

High school or secondary school

Largo High School (IB Program), Largo, FL, USA