27

Eli Schatz

B.S. in Math & Computer Science, '27

In 2016, my parents brought me along to UWF as they toured the campus with my older sister, who was considering attending. I immediately fell in love with the University; the beautiful surrounding nature and the welcoming community was everything I imagined a university could and should be. From then on, my heart was set on UWF, but I had no idea the incredible enhancements UWF would leave on my life.

As a freshman at UWF, I was meek and socially awkward. I firmly believe that if I had gone to any other college, I would have remained that way, but UWF definitely pushed me to become more. The strong community, including my mentor Lindsey Woods, Ed.D., director of student engagement, allowed me to grow into the person I am today. As the budget and allocations chair within the Student Government Association here at UWF, I managed roughly 10 million dollars in student funds. Instead of simply telling me what to do, Woods enhanced my leadership capabilities by guiding me through my own thought process and instilling confidence in my decision-making skills.

SGA has been one of the most impactful and enhancing experiences for me while at UWF. Throughout the years, I have had the honor to serve as member, chair and now the student-body president. As I reflect on my time here, I realize I am no longer the timid person I once was. I have found a loving community, been a part of something larger than myself and enhanced my skill set along the way. I am beyond thankful for the people who came before me who made this University such a phenomenal place to live and learn. I hope to follow in their footsteps and plant seeds I may never see grow, but that will enhance the experience for the next generation of students at UWF.