UF Gulf Scholars Medallion
Looking to focus your studies on the Gulf region? By completing the required coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and a Gulf Impact Project, you will be well-prepared to tackle some of the Gulf’s most pressing challenges, whether in graduate school or the workforce.
Enrollment for the medallion program is open year round, and students from all majors are encouraged to sign up. We’ll work closely with you to ensure your experience fits your personal and professional goals after graduation.
Find your Gulf Stream
The UF Gulf Scholars Program offers five flexible, customizable pathways you can tailor to your interests.
Nature & Climate
Learn more about conservation, climate adaptation and protecting Gulf ecosystems.
This pathway is designed for students passionate about conservation, climate adaptation, and protecting ecosystems. Whether you’re studying biology, environmental science, or wildlife ecology and conservation, this track provides you with hands-on experience in restoring coastal habitats, combating climate change, and sustaining biodiversity in the Gulf of Mexico.
History & Storytelling
Explore how history, culture, and stories of Gulf communities shape our understanding of the region and its future.
This track is perfect for students studying history, anthropology, journalism, or the arts, offering the chance to document oral histories, capture cultural narratives, and preserve heritage in the face of environmental and social change.
Built Environments
Reimagine urban planning, architecture, and economic systems in response to climate change and rapid development along the Gulf.
Whether you’re interested in engineering, architecture, economics, or urban planning, you’ll tackle issues like sustainable infrastructure, resilient housing, and economic development for communities at risk.
Policy & Advocacy
Advocate for equitable, sustainable solutions and work alongside communities and leaders to make a lasting impact.
For students passionate about politics, law, social justice, and community advocacy, this pathway offers the chance to shape policies that address the Gulf’s pressing environmental and social issues. Whether you want to work in policy development, environmental justice, or advocacy, this track will help you turn your passion into action.
Public Health
Through research, advocacy, and action, you’ll contribute to healthier, more resilient populations.
Students interested in public health, medicine, or social work will find their place in this pathway. Focused on how environmental and climate change impacts the health of Gulf Coast communities, this track offers hands-on opportunities to address health disparities and ensure community resilience in the face of environmental stressors.
What are the requirements?
Program requirements include:
- 15 credits of Gulf-focused coursework
- An experiential learning opportunity
- Completion of a Gulf Impact Project
- Participation in group meetings and public programs
Once enrolled, students will attend an orientation to learn more about specific program requirements and how to register for classes. To complete the program, we recommend enrolling with at least four semesters left at UF. However, we will work with students who are closer to graduation.
Students who complete the program will receive a medallion to wear at graduation, along with hands-on experience that will strengthen their resumes.
View the full program requirements at: UF Gulf Scholars Medallion Requirements
How do I get started?
Undergraduates from any major at UF can enroll for the Medallion at any time, though we suggest enrolling with at least four semesters before anticipated graduation in order to complete the program requirements.
If you are later on in your UF journey, we are willing to work with you. Visit the link below to enroll in our Canvas course to receive Gulf Scholars announcements and track your progress!
I’m enrolled in the Canvas Course. Now what?
Step 1. Attend an upcoming orientation, which are held at the beginning of Fall and Spring semesters. At our orientations, we will walk you through the Canvas page, medallion requirements, and answer any questions you might have related to Gulf Scholars.
Step 2: Complete the Preliminary Survey and submit verification. Find the link to the survey in the Canvas course by navigating to “Start Here” and “Getting Started and Program Requirements” tab.
Step 3: Register for required and elective courses (noted in the Canvas course); attend cohort meetings, field excursions, and public programs, and begin thinking about what kind of experiential learning opportunity and Gulf Impact Project you are interested in! Once you are enrolled in the Canvas, you will receive weekly announcements about upcoming Gulf Scholars meetings, events, funding and internship opportunities.
Step 4: Once you have an idea for a Gulf Impact Project, visit program coordinator Rebecca Burton during Fall and Spring office hours (Wednesdays from 2:00-3:30 and Thursdays from 1:30-3:00 in Pugh Hall Suite 220) to develop a plan and discuss mentor and funding options.
Program benefits
By participating in the UF Gulf Scholars Program, you will:
- Gain a deeper understanding of the environmental, economic, social, health, and cultural challenges facing Gulf communities
- Apply your unique skill set to real-world Gulf challenges through hands-on experience
- Receive individualized support throughout your Gulf Scholars journey
- Join a diverse community of professionals and peers from many academic backgrounds
- Develop skills in civic engagement, public service, and leadership
- Work on impactful projects alongside faculty and community partners focused on Gulf-related issues
