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Katrin Frederickson
she/her

Hometown: Tallahassee, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Human Development and Family Sciences)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: As a local I've always had a love for Tallahassee for many reasons. There are many parks to explore including Tom brown park and Piney Z, which has a great walking trail my mom and I love to go on! Tallahassee also offers lots of variety. While FSU brings a vibrant energy into the city (especially during football season!), you can easily escape to a 'small town vibe' within a 10-minute drive. Above all, the kindness of its people and the sense of community make Tallahassee truly special.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: The environment here is truly unique. Whether inside the classroom or out, there's a genuine desire for your success. You will find support in every aspect of your college experience. FSU quickly feels like home, and the campus itself is stunning!

My advice for future Seminoles: Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Even now, I'm discovering events, resources, and activities on campus that I wish I had known about earlier. You might be pleasantly surprised. Every experience you have is an opportunity to learn. Additionally, take some time to explore Tallahassee. There's so much to discover and enjoy beyond campus life.

Michael

Michael Alberto
he/him

Hometown: Pembroke Pines, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.A. (Food and Nutrition Science)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: The city is very laid back and it is a lot less hectic than most parts of Florida. I also enjoy watching the seasons change in northern Florida.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: The cooperative spirit of FSU's staff and students makes me proud to be a part of it. I also love the wonderful feeling I get when I walk around campus.

My advice for future Seminoles: I highly recommend living on campus your first year. Constantly being around other students is the best way to get involved and to have fun.

Alfredo

Alfredo Alvarez
he/him

Hometown: Miami, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S (Political Science)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: The food! Considering how small of a city this is relative to population size. We have some phenomenal food, whether these are sit-down restaurants, food trucks, or a small hole-in-the-wall place. This city and its surrounding areas have it all.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: How accessible our campus is, you can walk from one corner of campus to the other in under 30 minutes. It's incredible how this university can have so many things in such a compact area!

My advice for future Seminoles: Enjoy the time that you have on campus, these will be some of the best experiences you have. Make sure to cherish them and live in the moment. Get involved, and step out of your comfort zone, you're only a college student once!

Catherine

Catherine Arthur
she/her

Hometown: Orlando, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Psychology)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: Tallahassee is one of those rare places that instantly feels like home no matter how far you have travelled or how long you've been here. Every person you meet is welcoming and kind and wants to show you the often-unnoticed beauty in every aspect of this city.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: I love the culture of this university and how contagious everyone's love for Florida State is. Whether it is through academics, athletics, or research, there is something every single person has an unwavering passion for, and they would love to help you in gaining that same passion. Personally, I love going to FSU football games to really see everyone showcase their passion for Florida State loudly and proudly!

My advice for future Seminoles: Get involved with something you never thought you would enjoy. There are hundreds of student organizations that cover a vast variety of interests that maybe you haven't even considered, and getting involved with an unfamiliar one may lead you to a group of new friends and experiences you will never forget!"

Courtney

Courtney Wood
she/her

Hometown: Valdosta, GA

Degree(s): Valdosta State University, B.A. (History)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: Tallahassee is a haven for foodies, there are so many different options to choose from when it comes to food. I love exploring different places to eat and hang out!

What I enjoy the most about FSU: The communal spirit for Florida State is infectious, everyone here from the administration and staff to the students genuinely love it here. From sports to student organizations to campus traditions, there is spirit in everything we do. Every day is a great day when you're at FSU!

My advice for future Seminoles: Don't be afraid to try something new! Florida State has so many options to help you broaden your horizons, take advantage of attending a campus rich with opportunities! You never know when you'll discover a new passion or hobby.

Annie

Annie Blanchard
she/her

Hometown: Baton Rouge, LA

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Political Science and Media/Communications Studies)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: As an educational hub and Florida's state capitol, Tallahassee brings in people from all across the world, making it an exciting hub of activity. We're also a short drive from both the beach and some beautiful hikes. Lastly, everything from evergreens to live oaks to palm trees can grow here. This city really has it all!

What I enjoy the most about FSU: I came to FSU as an out of state student not knowing a single soul, and I left with a community unlike anything I've ever known. At FSU, everyone wants to cheer you on, be your friend, and help you make your dreams even bigger than you thought they could be.

My advice for future Seminoles: Just say yes! You might think you know exactly what you want out of your college experience, but at FSU, you will have access to endless opportunities that you never knew existed. Whether it's our incredible student life, top 5 study abroad program, or R1 research labs, be open to all that this incredible school has to offer. You never know where you might learn something new about yourself or discover a new interest that might change your life.

Samantha

Samantha Buxbaum
she/her

Hometown: Little Rock, AR

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.A. (English); M.S. (Retail Entrepreneurship)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: Tallahassee has a never-ending list of great local restaurants. I also love some of the unique festivals that we host each year, as well as our great parks. I'm a regular at Cascades!

What I enjoy the most about FSU: Besides the fact that FSU gave me an amazing college experience, it is also just so naturally beautiful. From the red brick to the Spanish moss, it's nice to just find a quiet spot on campus and soak it all in every once in a while!

My advice for future Seminoles: Document your college journey! Take lots of pictures, save that ticket stub from your favorite football game, and create a memory box with tokens from all your favorite college memories.

Hannah

Hannah Godfrey
she/her

Hometown: Orlando, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Psychology)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: I love how unique the city of Tallahassee is, blending historic landmarks, modern architecture, and lush green spaces. With the capitol, extensive parks and trails, and vibrant art scenes, every street in Tallahassee promises a distinct experience.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: FSU felt like home from the moment I stepped onto campus. Our emphasis on traditions and community makes our school one of a kind. The school spirit within the community extends beyond sports and into our research, student organizations, and academics. For me, few things were more special than waking up on campus for the first home football game. Experiencing the War Chant echoing through campus and witnessing locals, students, faculty, and alumni alike show their support for FSU is something I wish everyone could experience.

My advice for future Seminoles: Take advantage of everything our campus has to offer and fully immerse yourself into the experience. Outside of student organizations, there are always events happening on/around campus that provide students with an opportunity to meet new people, engage in fun activities, and even learn new skills. Take every opportunity to explore yourself and allow yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. These years provide a once in a lifetime opportunity, enjoy them!

Vannah

Vannah Clayton
she/her

Hometown: Perry, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Psychology and Child Development)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: Tallahassee has a ton of beautiful local parks! The trees, blooming flowers, small ponds, chirping birds, and green space always offer a great deal of peace and relaxation for me.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: FSU gives everyone the ability to grow. There is no judgment or imperfections, just improvements that can contribute to one's personal growth.

My advice for future Seminoles: You will be discovering and experiencing many new things about the world around you and yourself. It is an exciting time and a new adventure. Enter this experience with an open mind; if you come into this new experience with hopefulness and a positive attitude, your experience will be a lot more rewarding.

Marissa

Marissa Hollenbacher
she/her

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Communications/Public Relations)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: My favorite thing is all the outdoor parks and picnic areas that students can visit. Tallahassee is a unique part of Florida that makes you feel like you are elsewhere in the world. You get all four seasons, hills, beautiful oak trees, red brick buildings, and a ton of outdoor things to do.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: FSU becomes your family from the minute you step on campus. The FSU community is like no other and comes together as one to make each student part of the Seminole family.

My advice for future Seminoles: Take a chance on campus. Get involved, explore new hobbies, try something you never thought you would do, and make memories. You are only at college one time in your life, make the most of it. There is something for everyone at FSU, you just must be willing to branch out of your comfort zone.

Carolina

Carolina Salinas
she/her

Hometown: West Palm Beach, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S (Social Science Education)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: My favorite thing about Tallahassee is how you can experience different seasons compared to other parts of Florida. Coming from south Florida we do not get to experience season changes, so it was something very beautiful to witness.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: I really enjoy that FSU does really nurture students to develop the core values of strength, skill, and character. FSU really pushes students to be successful in every aspect from career growth to even personal growth. FSU wants students to be successful in every way.

My advice for future Seminoles: Step out of your comfort zone. When you step out of your comfort zone you will see things differently. You will not be afraid to go after what you want and not miss out on a potential opportunity.

Samantha

Samantha Turner
she/her

Hometown: Gray. TN

Degree(s): University of Pennsylvania, B.A. (Psychology)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: I love the feel of Tallahassee, it feels like a small town but has so much to do. I also am from the smoky mountains, so I love being in a wooded area but only a short drive to a beach.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: The School Spirit from students, alumni, and the surrounding community. I grew up to be a sports fan and there is nothing like being at a school where everyone feels school spirit and goes to all the sports games. I also love that at FSU, it's not just a football school, here, all of the sports are widely attended and cheered for.

My advice for future Seminoles: Don't hesitate to take a chance that might seem small like joining a club or taking an internship that is out of your comfort zone. I found my two passions- higher education and sports photography- by taking opportunities that didn't align with what I ended up going to school for. Both of those opportunities changed the direction of my life. So even if its just a small organization or job that you only spend a few hours a week or something that is larger, take a leap with something new at FSU. You may just find a new passion.

Carly

Carly Amore
she/her

Hometown: Tampa, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S (Psychology)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: Tallahassee instantly felt like home away from home for me. I love the community aspect this town offers everyone. The drives down canopy roads, the distance to the beach, the amount of parks, Tallahassee is the best!

What I enjoy the most about FSU: Besides having the most beautiful campus ever, FSU has a sense of school spirit like no other. Everyone is so proud to say they are a Seminole!

My advice for future Seminoles: Get involved! The more you put yourself out there, the better your time here will be. The best decision I made was getting involved with a Campus Ministry. Clubs and Organizations are a great way to get to know FSU/Tallahassee better, and an amazing way to make friends!

Stacie

Stacie Boatwright
she/her

Hometown: Tallahassee, FL

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: I love how close Tallahassee is the beaches, all its outdoor activities and parks, and the locally-owned restaurants.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: I love that FSU's faculty and staff members are always friendly and willing to help students succeed in every way possible. FSU also has a beautiful campus and strong school spirit.

My advice for future Seminoles: Be open to new things and experience a little bit of it all. Get to know a wide range of people, whether it be faculty, staff, and students.

Matthew

Matthew Carroll
he/him

Hometown: Tallahassee, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Psychology)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: There is something magical about the canopy roads—when oak trees dangle Spanish moss over gently bending and shaded roads that occasionally cut into the red clay earth—in and around Tallahassee.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: Market Wednesdays in and around the Student Union and Legacy Walk are great opportunities to see what is happening on and off campus. You can engage with student organizations and shop at local business vendors. As a student—and notorious window shopper—I would go to Market Wednesdays just to see what was new.

My advice for future Seminoles: There is more than one way to succeed. While an initial plan may not find success, looking into the resources available through FSU and making alternate plans will help you to create success in ways you may not have previously expected.

Katelyn

Katelyn Chandler
she/her

Hometown: Riverview, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.A. (International Affairs and French); M.S. / Ed.S. (Counseling and Human Systems)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: There are so many local events throughout the city. My favorite events include Red Hills Horse Trials, North Florida Fair, First Friday at Railroad Square, and Saturday's Downtown Market. Explore your new home!

What I enjoy the most about FSU: Florida State offers over 750 clubs and organizations, giving you the opportunity to expand your interests and skills. This is an excellent way to meet people while gaining confidence in yourself and your academics by engaging in a student organization, society, service or sport.

My advice for future Seminoles: Try to create healthy habits early. It is easy to overwhelm yourself with a packed schedule or to overindulge in the amount of free time you have with friends. Find your balance and allow FSU to support you with a variety of resources when needed.

Olivia

Olivia Brink
she/her

Hometown: Tampa, FL

Degree(s): Florida State University, B.S. (Social Science Education); M.S. (Curriculum and Instruction)

My favorite thing about Tallahassee: I love the way the Tallahassee community comes together in support of all things Florida State. There are many alumni who live in the area (and a large number who travel back each year) who are not afraid to show off their FSU Seminole Pride. Whether it be attending football games in Doak Campbell Stadium, cheering on performers in the FSU Flying High Circus, or lining the streets for the annual FSU Homecoming Parade, our community is always more than willing to show their love for FSU.

What I enjoy the most about FSU: I appreciate FSU's dedication to experiential learning, because getting an education is not limited to the classroom. These opportunities can take the form of internships, service learning, creative research, or even international study. FSU has built these types of experiences into its curriculum to allow for real world, hands-on experience that will successfully prepare students for life after college.

My advice for future Seminoles: Take the time to learn more about all the resources we have on campus to help you succeed in and out of the classroom. From your professor's office hours, to the ACE Learning Studio, to the Career Center, FSU is an institution that strives to show you great you can be. Do not let any opportunity pass you by and take advantage of all FSU has built for you.