Ten Campus Services Every UF Student Should Know About

They range in number from 1 to 126 and transport thousands of UF students to classes, around Gainesville, and home every day. The buses of RTS are probably the most used and underappreciated student service offered by UF. Without this service, scooter and bike sales would go through the roof. I’m sure nobody wants to dodge any more bicycles or scooters on the roadways than they already do now.

My name is Tiffany, and I am another one of the faces you see on the bus every day. I am currently studying Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, and you can usually catch me studying for one of my classes during my journey to campus. While the bus system is probably the most used student service offered by UF, there are plenty more that students should take advantage of.

SNAP (Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol): Another mode of transportation around campus, SNAP runs until 3 am daily. All you have to do is call in your location, where you want to go, and a SNAP van will come pick you up at your door step. This is a great late-night resource for students who would otherwise have to walk home alone in the dark. I used SNAP many times for a Mochi run while living in the dorms. 

Fitness Classes: So if you’re like me, walking into the gym is overwhelming. It is full of machines and dumbbells that I have no idea what to do with. So instead, I enjoy taking the group fitness classes offered by Rec Sports. You can do anything from aqua zumba to power lifting to get into the shape, stay in shape, or just relieve some stress from school work. My suggestion is to try Hip Hop Fitness with Brandon, especially if you love dancing to Beyonce.

Broward Tutoring: A lot of students are unaware that you don’t have to spend your money on Tutoringzone packets and private tutors. Broward Teaching Center offers free one-on-one tutoring, supplemental instruction study groups, study videos, practice exams and so much more. I wouldn’t have survived General Chemistry without my tutor.

Career Resource Center: Choosing a major, career planning, resume and cover letter critique, mock interviews, graduate school information, career fairs, employer interviews, job placement, and so much more! If you haven’t utilized this valuable resource yet, it’s not too late. You still have access to many of the career services as alumni.

Legal Services: Did you know you have free access to your very own legal office? Student Legal Services can assist you with a variety of legal issues from landlord-tenant cases to adoption. They even offer free notary services with a valid gator one.

Vending Machines: It is one of the simple joys in life to be able to grab a quick snack on your way to class. I wouldn’t make it through the morning without my daily dose of caffeine, but I get my vanilla latte hot and fresh without fighting the line at Starbucks. For $1.25 I get a fresh cup from the coffee vending machine between my 2^nd and 3^rd period classes.

Computing Help Desk: Every semester UF finds a new and improved way for students to utilize the internet resources offered. Whether it’s the online site for classes, the way we connect to the internet, or just new programs to assist students, there is always a reason I take advantage of the help desk. Located inside the HUB, the help desk if staffed with trained professionals to help with your computer needs; it’s our own geek squad. They even have a drop off service for more complicated problems.

Post Office: Nestled in across from Lakeside dorms we have our very own post office. They provide all the services of a normal post office but without the lines and parking hassles. Best of all, you can go and fill out the application for a US Passport, picture and all, and when approved it is sent right to your door. No waiting around for weeks to get an appointment like at the other post offices. (P.S. You should do this now, if you plan on going abroad this summer!)

Study Abroad Services: The international center is full of opportunities for students to travel the world. They have weekly information sessions, schedule appointments, and offer scholarships. Advisors will work with you to plan your very own trip or a lifetime! Stop by the office anytime to pick up information on where to go, how to get there, what to expect, and so much more.

I hope I have encouraged you guys to explore all the services available to you. Use them while you still can!

Best of luck,

Tiffany J

Tiffany Lane

Class: Junior

Hometown: Riverview, Florida

Major: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

Specialization: Wildlife Ecology

Involvement: Sigma Alpha Agricultural Sorority Activities Coordinator, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and the Wildlife Society

Hobbies: Scuba diving, fishing, four wheeling, traveling with my family, line dancing and crafting
After College: Plans to travel and work on different Ecology and Conservation research projects.