Every semester is a chance to start fresh.

Whether you’re navigating your first days on campus or a returning Knight, each new academic semester is an opportunity to discover what works for you, meet new people, challenge yourself and take advantage of everything Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ has to offer.

No matter what you set out to accomplish, you’ll find the support to help get you there. Whether you’re in need of academic guidance, career preparation, wellness resources and support or ways to get involved, here are the tools to set you up for success.

Build Strong Habits with Academic Support

The key to overcoming academic challenges isn’t waiting until you’re struggling — it’s knowing where to turn before you get there.

If you’re adjusting to college-level coursework, working through a difficult class or trying to stay ahead, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ provides a variety of academic support services — available in person and virtually — to help you stay on track all semester long.

Start here:

• Academic Success Coaching: Students are encouraged to meet regularly with their for help setting goals, staying on track, improving study strategies, managing time and connecting with campus resources.
  • Support Pop-Up Station: Visit the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Student Union from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, and Thursday, Aug. 27, for on-the-spot support and guidance from Academic Advocates and Academic Success Coaches.

• Peer Tutoring: The Student Academic Resource Center (SARC) offers  in more than 30 subjects. Visit the SARC office in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 117 or the Engineering II atrium for assistance.

• : Drop in for help with undergraduate math courses and work through challenging concepts with experienced tutors.

• : Whether you’re writing your first college essay, polishing a lab report or updating your resume, writing consultants are available at every stage of the writing process.

• Academic Calendar: Refer to the official for important dates for enrollment, holidays, exams, commencement and events.

• : Academic Engagement Librarians are available to help graduate students find research materials, navigate databases, develop stronger research projects and access additional library resources and services.

• : From laptops for class to calculators for exams, this new service on the second floor of the John C. Hitt Library makes it easy to borrow the tools you need to succeed academically.

• Study Spaces: If you prefer complete silence, a lively atmosphere or the outdoors, there are plenty of places to help you stay productive. Check out some of these favorite spots across Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s campuses:

• • Grab your favorite drink and settle in at a coffee shop. Campus favorites like Dunkin’ Donuts, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Foxtail Coffee or Starbucks are ideal if you enjoy a little background noise while studying, meeting with a group or working on a project.

• • Escape the bustle of campus at the Burnett Honors College Meditation Garden, a peaceful outdoor space where shaded seating, lush greenery and a tranquil koi pond create a relaxing environment for reading, studying or recharging between classes.

• • If you’re crossing the Dr. Phillips Academic Commons Bridge between classes at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Downtown, pause to review your notes or catch up on reading in one of the quiet seating areas overlooking campus.

• • The shaded lounge area in front of Addition Financial Arena at Knights Plaza offers a comfortable place to catch up on assignments, meet up with friends or unwind between classes.

• • Looking for a quieter environment? in the John C. Hitt Library or find one of the many individual and group study spaces designed for focused work.

• • Take your studying outside at the Reflecting Pond by spreading a blanket on the grass or settling into a shady spot along the water. Fresh air and a change of scenery can be a great way to recharge while reviewing notes.

Prioritize Your Health and Well-Being

Taking care of yourself is just as important as keeping up with your coursework. When you feel your best, you’re better prepared to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Through Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s wide variety of health and wellness services, you’ll have support physically, mentally and emotionally throughout the semester.

That holistic approach to serving students recently earned Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ national recognition. The university received Insight Into Academia magazine’s 2026 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award for fostering a campus culture in which students and employees have access to meaningful wellness resources, supportive communities and proactive care.

Available student well-being and support resources include:

• Mental Health Support:  (CAPS) provides all students with free around-the-clock mental health support. Additionally, they have complimentary access to ‘ anonymous peer support community and  teletherapy sessions throughout the semester. Students can access support by calling CAPS at 407-823-2811, visiting in person or . For after-hours support, call 407-823-2811 and press 5 to connect with a counselor.
  • Spend time with from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 27 and enjoy a mindful break while learning practical stress-management techniques as you ease into the semester.

• : Build healthy habits that support your well-being and academic success with free services and programs, including wellness coaching, FreshU Kitchen, cooking demonstrations and classes, and access to free healthy food.

• Physical Wellness:  is your on-campus healthcare home, providing convenient access to primary and preventive care, sports medicine, dental care, pharmacy, immunizations, laboratory testing and more. Looking to stay active? The  has you covered with a two-story fitness area, group exercise classes and a variety of recreational activities. For some fresh air, head to  at Lake Claire, where you can unwind outdoors with free kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.

• Well-Being and Basic Needs Support: The Center for Student Care and Advocacy is a hub for navigating academic, personal and financial challenges. You can contact at 407-823-5607 or caremanager@ucf.edu for assistance. For help with everyday essentials, provides free food, clothing and toiletries daily to currently enrolled Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students.

Prepare for Your Career Now

You don’t have to wait until graduation to start building your professional experience. The (DCDC) can assist you with exploring career paths, preparing for graduate or professional school, building professional skills and connecting with employers from your first semester through graduation.

This semester, you can:

• Meet with Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ DCDC staff for resume reviews, LinkedIn profile feedback, mock interviews and more at the center.

• Get guidance from team for exploring careers that require advanced degrees and preparing and applying to graduate, health professional and law schools.

• Attend career workshops covering everything from networking and interviewing to job searching and using AI in your job search.

• Discover internship opportunities that provide you with real-world experience — and, in some cases, the chance to earn academic credit.

• Secure your next internship or job and connect with employers from a wide range of industries at the on Oct. 1 at Addition Financial Arena.

• Connect with employers, discover career opportunities and receive a free headshot at the on Oct. 28 in the Darden Auditorium.

Even if you’re only beginning to explore your career options, these experiences can help you build skills and connections long before graduation.

Find Your Community on Campus

Some of your best college memories happen outside the classroom.

Whether you’re looking to meet people, discover new interests, give back or just get out and have fun, you’ll find plenty of ways to get involved and connect with campus.

Take the opportunity to:

• Find your people by joining one (or more!) of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s 650+ student organizations.

• Grab your game day gear and embrace the energy of Knight Nation while cheering on the Knights across 16 sports. Students can to home games throughout the season.

• Make a difference through Volunteer Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½, where you can sort donations at local food pantries, tutor students, assist in hospitals and connect with the community.

• Take part in iconic Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ traditions like Spirit Splash, one of the most beloved Homecoming Week events, and Pegasus Palooza, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s official welcome week featuring free events and big-name entertainment.

• Graduate students: Build connections and get involved on campus through the Graduate Student Center, a welcoming hub in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 213, where you can meet other graduate students and participate in , including Fall Take Off, two weeks of activities that welcome new and returning graduate students.

No matter what your interests are, there’s a place for you here and a community ready to welcome you.

Know Your Transportation Options

A little preparation can make getting around campus much easier — especially during the first few weeks of the semester.

Before heading to class:

• Make sure you have the correct parking permit and know where you can park. Beforehand, review and real-time to save time and avoid hassle. Parking Garages A and I often have the most availability.

• Check shuttle routes and schedules using the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Mobile app or the . offers 10 conveniently located stops near most academic buildings and popular campus destinations.

• Give yourself extra travel time during the first few weeks of the semester, when campus is busiest.

Friendly reminder: A valid Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ or Daily Parking Permit is required to park on campus at all times (24/7).

Stay Organized with Essential Tools

myKnight STAR

Keeping track of classes, appointments and deadlines is much easier when everything is in one place. That’s where , powered by Navigate Student, comes in. With tools designed to help you stay organized, connected and on track, it’s your go-to resource for managing the semester and accessing the support you need.

Using the app or web browser, you can:

• View your class schedule.

• Schedule appointments for Academic Success Coaching and other campus services.

• Explore majors and career pathways.

• Connect with classmates to form study groups.

• Receive reminders about important academic deadlines and upcoming appointments.

Student Center

The Student Center, accessible through , has a new, mobile-first design and updated navigation, but the tools you rely on — such as class registration, financial aid, tuition payments, grades and academic records — remain the same. They may just be in a different place. For help finding and accessing key tools, log in to myÂ鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ and click the banner at the top of the page to visit the Help Center. Graduate students can also use the dedicated Graduate Students tile to access resources and tools for managing their academic journey.

Make This Semester Count

No matter where you are on your Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ journey, you won’t have to navigate it alone.

The habits you build now — and the people and resources you connect with along the way — can make all the difference in your college experience.

So ask questions, get involved, try something new and take advantage of the opportunities around you.

Wishing you a successful semester, Knights. Charge On!

This guide is a resource to help you develop a sense of belonging, find community and build lifelong friendships while studying at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½.

Marquee Events

Whether you’re studying at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Downtown, the , Rosen College of Hospitality Management or the main campus,  you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Some signature events have become beloved Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ traditions with not-to-be-missed programming:

• Pegasus Palooza, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s annual welcome week, greets new and returning students to campus with a variety of events including notable headliners at Comedy Knight and Concert Knight.

• Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Homecoming Week,Ìý´Ú±ð²¹³Ù³Ü°ù¾±²Ô²µÌýSpirit Splash, kicks off Monday, Oct. 19, and concludes with the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ football team’s matchup against BYU on Saturday, Oct. 24.

• Space Game, a football game unlike any other in the nation, pays tribute to our Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s roots as America’s Space University. This year’s matchup against Baylor on Friday, Oct. 30, marks 10 years of the Space Game.

• , held each spring at  Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, showcases the artistic talents of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s faculty and students in performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences.

• Gather Luncheon, a community-building event in the spring hosted by Wellness & Health Promotion Services and Dining Services,  brings hundreds of students together  for a free, three-course meal.

Recreation, Intramurals and Sports Clubs

In addition to its fitness and recreation facilities, the Recreation and Wellness Center has longstanding intramural and sports club programs that allow students to form friendships and win championships, sometimes on the brightest of stages.

The RWC’s intramural sports program welcomes all Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students, especially those who are new to Orlando and haven’t met enough peers to form their own team. Thanks to its free agency feature, individuals ca be matched up with others or be paired with an established team.

The sports club includes 45 different sports, encompassing everything from judo to lacrosse to wakeboarding and have produced some of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s most notable alumni. Gold medalist Phil Dalhausser ’02, who played club volleyball while pursuing his business degree, and bronze medalist Kristen Thomas ’16, who began her rugby career as a theatre studies major at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½, both went on to represent Team USA at multiple Summer Olympic Games.

For more information, visit .

Registered Student Organizations

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ offers more than 650 registered student organizations spanning academic, professional, cultural and spiritual, social and recreational, and sports interests.

KnightConnect is Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s official involvement platform where students can explore these organizations or even create a new one. Each organization has its own page with meeting times, contact information, and ways to get involved.

Visit the  to find the organization right for you.

Greek Life

The fraternity and sorority experience has long been a part of campus life. Since the 1970s, fraternities and sororities have been providing spaces of belonging for students to grow together during their collegiate years.

Currently our Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Greek community is comprised of 47 organizations, which all share the values of scholarship, leadership, service and brotherhood/sisterhood.

For more information visit .

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Athletics – Knightmare Society and Marching Knights

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ is a member of one of the premiere conferences in the nation, the Big 12. From Fear the Fronds to Zombie Nation, the student section’s energy is an integral part of the game day atmosphere and gives the Knights a distinct home field (and court) advantage.

All full-time Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½-enrolled students (except Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Online) are eligible for free tickets to home sporting events. Please note: all seating is first-come, first-served and admission is not guaranteed. For more information, especially for football and men’s basketball student tickets, please visit .

°Õ³ó±ðÌý is an organization built and run by Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students and supported by Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Athletics. Joining the official group has its perks, including football tickets automatically loaded to members’ Ticketmaster accounts, a dedicated fast pass entrance at all Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ men’s basketball games, and first access to post-season student ticket claims.

Students can also contribute to game-day experiences by joining , a more than 390-member marching band student organization that performs at pregame shows, halftime shows, pep rallies and other fan-fest events. By creating the soundtrack for these dynamic events, the Marching Knights serve as one of the most vibrant and visible forces for school spirit.

Engage in Research

Undergraduate research provides opportunities to build a learning community with faculty and fellow students while engaging in meaningful work that develops solutions for challenges facing our communities, industries and the world.

In addition to forging connections with peers and mentors, this practical experience allows students to build their professional resumes before they graduate.

, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s annual university-wide celebration of research and creative scholarship showcases graduate and undergraduate research. The week is scheduled for March 29 through April 2, 2027, featuring presentations, exhibitions and other events showcasing student research.

For more information on how to get involved with undergraduate research, visit .

·¡³æ±è±ô´Ç°ù±ðÌý°¿°ù±ô²¹²Ô»å´Ç

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students live in one of the most vibrant destinations in the world, Orlando. Whatever your interest, Orlando likely has it:Ìýtheme parks, elite sporting events, electric festivals, Michelin-rated restaurants, nearby coastlines and natural springs.

Orlando is what you make it, and there are ways to experience it all on a student budget.

°Õ³ó±ðÌý offers discounted tickets to various attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and Kennedy Space Center. Every spring semester, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students enjoy free, exclusive access to Universal Islands of Adventure as part of Universal Knights.

 gives Knights of all experience levels opportunities to go on hiking and camping trips at nearby springs, learn to surf, paddle through bioluminescent waters and more.

Several cultural museums in the area offer free entry, including the  on the main campus, Rollins Museum of Art and Mead Garden in nearby Winter Park, and the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida in Maitland. °Õ³ó±ðÌýacclaimed Orlando Museum of Art offers free entry on the third Thursday of each month as part of its Access for All initiative.

Held annually at the start of the fall semester, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining offers a chance to sample some the area’s exceptional restaurants at a fraction of the normal cost. Savor three-course, prix-fixe dinners  — including at Aurora at the on-campus The Celeste Hotel — for just $40 or $60 per person from Aug. 14 – Sept. 30, 2026.

Academic Support and Study Strategy

Preparation is the best way to reduce anxiety, and Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ offers a variety of coaching, tutoring, or peer support to help you conquer your study strategy.

•  From Monday, April 27 through Friday, May 1, the Student Union again will become your campus study headquarters, offering free live review sessions led by tutors and Supplemental Instruction leaders across a variety of courses. Plus, Academic Consultation & Engagement peer consultants will be available to provide personalized academic support.
• :ÌýPeer mentors from the Office of Academic Advocacy will host a Mindsets & Motivations Event on Tuesday, April 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in Trevor Colbourn Hall, room 202.  They will also be in the Student Union Atrium during the hours listed below to connect you with resources, such as the Writing Center (Trevor Colbourn Hall, room 109 and the John C. Hitt Library, room 330) and Math Lab (Mathematical Science Building, rooms 153, 241, 240, and 242). Graduate students, remember that the  is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. in Trevor Colbourn Hall, Room 213.
• Reserved Study Rooms: We all know how busy the library can get during finals week. Use the to book a room at the John C. Hitt, Downtown, or Rosen libraries in advance to make sure you have a designated quiet space to study.

Wellness Resources

Your mental health is the foundation of your academic performance. If the pressure begins to feel unmanageable, there are several ways to find support.

• Mental Health Support: Beyond traditional counseling, (CAPS) provides 24/7 crisis support by dialing 407-823-2811.
• Free Mental Health Apps: Students have free access to , an anonymous peer-to-peer mental support community, and for free tele-therapy sessions, including evening and weekend appointments.

• Meeting Basic Needs: If your budget is tight during finals, the provides food, toiletries and even clothing to Knights in need.

Finals Week Events Around Campus

Conquer the end of the semester with these main campus events. Whether a study session or a social break, these opportunities are designed to help you cross the finish line feeling supported and confident.

• OverKnight Study (various dates between April 20 – May 5, 1 – 6 a.m.): The John C. Hitt Library will extend normal hours during to accommodate late-night study sessions in a safe, quiet environment.
• Sunset Yoga at Lake Claire (April 22, 7 – 8 p.m.): Join the Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) for a special end of semester Sunset Yoga session — the perfect way to decompress and stretch out after a long day of studying. Check the to register for a spot.
• Float Into Finals (April 23, 4 – 5:30 p.m.): Graduate Student Life to Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 213 for some well-deserved ice cream floats and good vibes with other students.
• Study Union (April 27 – May 1): SARC partners with the Student Union to bring multiple final exam review sessions in-person and online before and after finals week, with by a Peer Tutor or Supplemental Instruction Leader.
• Late Knight Breakfast (April 28, 10 p.m. – midnight):ÌýMark your calendars to come by the Student Union Atrium to enjoy your favorite breakfast foods. Hosted by Student Government, for students.
• Mindsets & Motivations with PeerKnights (April 28, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.): Held in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 202, this event helps students prepare for finals with campus resources focused on time management, study tips and staying motivated.

Transportation and Parking

To avoid parking delays, students are encouraged to arrive at campus early during finals week.

• will run on their regular schedule Monday, April 27 through Thursday, April 30, from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and on Friday, May 1, from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Need a ride on Saturday? There is a special shuttle service on May 2. Routes 1–10 will provide transportation to the Main Campus from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Quick Links for Success

Whether you are hitting the books in a reserved study room, meeting with a PeerKnights coach or taking a brain-break at the gym, remember that every resource at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ is designed to help you succeed. Take a breath, trust your preparation and know that the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ community is there to help and cheer you on.

Through this enhanced partnership, clinicians will continue to deliver exceptional care to Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students — offering injury evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation and preventive services — now bolstered by direct access to one of Central Florida’s premier healthcare systems.

“This collaboration ensures our students receive top-tier care from highly qualified athletic trainers.â€� — Jim Wilkening, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ RWC executive director

The agreement also supports expanded staffing, upgraded equipment, enhanced programming and streamlined referral pathways for students requiring additional care. These enhancements further solidify the RWC’s role as a cornerstone of student well-being at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½.

All RWC services — including appointments at the athletic training clinic — are free for students who have paid the university’s activity and service fee.

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s Pegasus Partner program provides select organizations with opportunities to engage across the university in ways that foster meaningful, long-term relationships.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Orlando Health for the continued health and safety of our students,� says Jim Wilkening, executive director of the RWC. “This collaboration ensures our students receive top-tier care from highly qualified athletic trainers.�

“As the official medical provider for Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Athletics, expanding our role to provide the same expert care to the entire student body was a logical step for us,â€� says Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute sports medicine physician Fred Soliman, who also serves as a team physician for Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½.  “Through this partnership, students will have easier access to high-level medical care at the RWC.â€�

“Through this partnership, students will have easier access to high-level medical care at the RWC.� — Fred Soliman, Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute sports medicine physician

Since becoming one of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s first Pegasus Partners in 2023, Orlando Health has made significant contributions to the university, including support for the new Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion in Lake Nona, which will open this fall; student scholarships; and internships aimed at addressing Florida’s nursing shortage.

Orlando Health also recently partnered with a Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ biomedical engineer and several engineering students on a pilot program that uses artificial intelligence and computer vision to track surgical staples in operating rooms. The AI software directs a camera to record each staple’s use, enabling data analysis that improves efficiency and reduces costs. This technology has the potential to be applied to other surgical processes, such as tracking instrument usage during non-robotic procedures.

“From Pilates and rock climbing to open-water SCUBA, the RWC empowers students to stay active — and now, with enhanced support from Orlando Health, they can climb higher, swim deeper and run faster, with even greater confidence in their care,â€� says Rod Grabowski, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s senior vice president for Advancement and Partnerships. “We are grateful not only for Orlando Health’s continued trust in our mission and programs, but also for their shared commitment to our students — and their future.â€�

Steve Anderson ’05 ’07MA

Referee, men’s basketball

After attending the 2016 Rio Olympics as the only U.S. referee for the men’s basketball competition, Anderson returns to the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. His career as an official has taken him around the world through his work with FIBA, the NBA and NCAA college basketball.

Anderson is one of the most successful graduates of the Recreation and Wellness Center’s intramural officiating program and the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Basketball Officiating class, which is celebrating its 25th year. After earning his bachelor’s degree in sports and fitness in 2005, Anderson accepted a graduate assistant position at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s recreation department, allowing him to earn his master’s degree in educational leadership. In addition to his continued work as an official, he also served as a mentor to younger referees within the program.

Anderson officiated the bronze medal match between Australia and Spain in 2016, which he considers to be one of the highlights of his career.

“I had the game-deciding call with seven seconds left that put Spain on the [free throw] line down one,� he says. “Everyone that I talked to was like, ‘That’s a good call. You needed to make that call.’ And you’ll never forget that because those are the plays that you want to have. … Those are the plays that make or break your career.�

Men’s basketball will tip off July 24 and conclude Aug. 6.

Kyle Coon ’13

Team USA, Paratriathlon

Coon will appear in his first Paralympics as part of the 17-member Paratriathlon team that will try and match or exceed Team USA’s four medals in 2016 when the event debuted at the summer games.

Coon was profiled in Pegasus magazine in the Summer 2019 issue. At 10 months old, Coon was diagnosed with bilateral sporadic retinoblastoma, the most common form of eye cancer for children. By the time he turned 7, both of his eyes had been surgically removed.

Shortly after the procedure, his father introduced him to Erik Weihenmayer, a blind extreme athlete. It was the first time Coon met an adult who was blind, providing him an idea of the possibilities that lay ahead. Weihenmayer encouraged Coon to envision life without limits and suggested he try rock climbing.

Coon did that and more — from downhill skiing to hiking the Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu to summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro. After graduating from Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ with a degree in communications, Coon became an endurance athlete, competing in numerous marathons and triathlons.

He is a two-time World Triathlon Para Series medalist and became a resident at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in January 2019 in pursuit of his goal of qualifying for Tokyo.

Coon competes alongside his guide, Andy Potts, a 2004 U.S. Olympian, 2007 Pan American Games gold medalist and decorated IRONMAN.

The paratriathlon competition in Tokyo consists of a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike and 5-kilometer run. Competition takes place Aug. 28–29.

Phil Dalhausser ’02

Team USA, beach volleyball

A veteran Olympian, Dalhausser will make his fourth appearance at the Olympics at the age of 41 and is on the hunt for a second medal.

In his first appearance in 2008 in Beijing, he not only won gold but was also named Most Outstanding Player for beach competition.

“It feels like it was yesterday. It’s crazy to me that it was 13 years ago,� he says. “What keeps me motivated is both myself and my partner are 41 and we’re competing against guys in their mid-20s and early 30s. I want to prove that age is really only a number and you can still be a pretty good athlete later into your years.�

Dalhausser earned his business degree from Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ and his fondness for beach volleyball grew during his college days when he played club indoor volleyball and found ways to get extra practice on sand.

In addition to his many career highlights, he is a Michelle Akers Award winner (2009), which is Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Alumni’s highest honor given to graduates who have brought international, positive attention to Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ through their accomplishments.

Competition for beach volleyball will start July 24, one day after the opening ceremony, and conclude Aug. 7, one day before the closing ceremony.

Aline Reis ’11

Team Brazil, women’s soccer 

Reis, who competed at the 2016 Rio Olympics, graduated in 2011 as one of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s most decorated student-athletes and was inducted into the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Athletics Hall of Fame in April 2019. She earned her degree in interdisciplinary studies with cum laude honors.

A native of Campinas, Brazil, Reis was recognized as an All-American goalkeeper both on the field and in the classroom during her career at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ from 2007 to 2011. She also led Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ to the NCAA Tournament in four consecutive seasons, which included the program’s first trip to the Elite Eight in more than two decades in 2011.

Following graduation, Reis served as a volunteer goalkeeper coach for UCLA’s women’s soccer team before she decided to chase her dream of earning a spot on Brazil’s women’s national team ahead of the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Reis was named to one of the two goalkeeper spots for the Olympic roster and had her shining moment on Aug. 9, 2016, when she received a starting nod against South Africa and recorded a shutout for her team. She later was one of four Knights to compete at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Brazilians are one of the few national teams never to have missed a Olympic women’s soccer tournament. Women’s soccer begins July 21 ahead of the opening ceremony and concludes Aug. 6.

Mattie Rogers ’20

Team USA, weightlifting

Rogers, an Apopka native who graduated with her degree in sports and exercise science with summa cum laude honors, has been training for the Olympics ever since she was in grade school. She spent a large part of her childhood competing as a gymnast, but when she grew taller, instead of giving up on her dream, she found another route to get there.

Her father, who died from cancer when she was 5, left a letter for her to read on her 18^th birthday, in which he wrote: “I’ll see you at the Olympics.�

Rogers attended the 2016 Rio Olympics as an alternate, and she says that experience fueled her drive to ensure she wouldn’t miss out on competing at this year’s games.

“I was so upset sitting in the stands watching what could have been,� she says. “At the time I didn’t realize that was going to be helpful, but it’s what helped get me through the tougher parts of this [training and qualifying period] because I did not want to be in that position ever again. I knew I needed to continue to work hard and push so I made sure that didn’t happen.�

She has pushed through some immense challenges since then. She fractured her spine and herniated a disc during competition in May 2019. Because she was still in a qualification period, she was back competing two months later. She moved up three weight classes to secure a spot on the team, and consumes about 4,000 calories a day to maintain her competition weight.

When the pandemic delayed the Olympics for a year and quarantine closed training facilities, she had to modify her garage — which was slanted — by cutting her living room carpet and layering it in the garage to account for the slope.

“I think I’ve overcome a lot, and I’m really proud of learning and growing more as a human than as an athlete because I think had I not done that, I wouldn’t be the athlete that I am right now,� she says.

Rogers’ weight class (women’s 87 kg) competes Aug. 2.

Kristen Thomas ’16

Team USA, rugby sevens

Thomas never played rugby until she arrived at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ as a theater studies major in 2011. The Philadelphia native signed up for the Recreation and Wellness Center’s club team during her first week of school — a decision that put her on the path to joining the USA national team just two years later.

“Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ was pretty instrumental in developing me as a player,â€� she says. “Our coach, Raoul Besse, really harped on our skills. The physicality of the game I think I get a lot from him because you need to be physical in a contact sport. He was the first one to nominate me for the under-20 national team and if he hadn’t done that, I don’t know if I would be where I am today.â€�

When she was called up to the national team in January 2015, she had to move to California and finish the last year of her degree online. She knew it would be a challenge to be a professional athlete while carrying a full course load, but she was committed to pursuing both dreams.

She says she is grateful to the national team for allowing her to juggle both responsibilities, especially when she had to miss a week of practice once a month to return to Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ to complete academic requirements related to her scholarship.

“My first goal was to get a college degree because I want to be able to take all of the opportunities that are afforded to me, and I got a scholarship to attend Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ so I wanted to finish what I started,â€� she says. “My entire life, I’ve always placed as much emphasis on schooling as I did sports. I would not have joined the national team if I couldn’t figure out a way to also finish school.â€�

Although she has been a fan of the Olympics her entire life, the former high school track athlete says she was very realistic about her odds of actually competing in them one day — that was until she started playing rugby.

An injury forced her to sit out of the 2016 Summer Games, which marked rugby sevens’ debut at the Olympics — the first time in 92 years that a form of rugby was contested at the Olympic Games. Now, she will not only have a chance to compete in Tokyo, but serve as a leader as the team’s co-captain in their quest for their first Olympic medal.

“This is really a dream come true,� she says. “I’m really excited, especially after missing out on the last one. It was a little bit tough to get yourself to dream again after you have it snatched away so quickly, but I think I’ve overcome that and at this point I’m excited to be given the opportunity. I think the team has been vibing really well together. I think with the combination of our culture and the things we’ve been working at on the field, we have a really good shot at getting gold.

Most of all, she wants the team to represent the beauty of America’s melting-pot culture.

“I think it’s important to show the world the makeup of the country,� she says. “On our team, we are [different] in a variety of ways and we’re just so open-minded and loving and caring. I just think if we can go out there and be the way that we are, it shows the world and the U.S. that, hey, you can embrace these differences and it can make you better for it. I think you find that commonality when you actually learn about each other. I think that’s a big statement we can make as a team.�

Women’s rugby sevens competition will be held July 29­–31.

Chelsea Wolfe ’16

Team USA, BMX freestyle (alternate)

BMX is making its debut at the Tokyo Olympics, and Wolfe, who graduated with a degree in political science, will be on hand as an alternate for the U.S. women’s squad.

Wolfe placed fifth in the BMX Freestyle Park finals at the UCI Urban World Championships in Montpellier, France, in June, which placed her third overall in the U.S. Team rankings and secured her spot as an alternate on the team.

According to her Team USA Cycling biography, Wolfe began BMX racing at 6 years old.

She got her start in freestyle competitions in 2014 in the Florida BMX park series and spent the next several years competing at the state level.

In 2016, she had just begun to travel nationally for BMX freestyle and the announcement came that the sport would be included in the 2020 Olympic Games. She began work to start competing internationally and ranked fifth in the world after her rookie UCI World Cup season.

In 2019 she finished third place at both the 2019 U.S. National and Pan-American Championships.

BMX competition will be held July 29–30.

Earlier this month, RWC staff lifted capacity limits associated with COVID-19 guidelines, dropped the requirement for students to book time slots or reservations, as well the following enhancements:

• Reconfigured the fitness floors to bring more equipment back online for students
• Reopened indoor spaces for open recreation play (basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, etc.)
• Offering faculty, staff, alumni and Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ affiliate memberships and non-enrolled student memberships
• Reintroduced guest passes for friends and family of enrolled students

Starting June 1, the RWC staff will discontinue the 2-hour midday break for enhanced cleaning. RWC staff will continue to ensure the facility meets the highest standards of cleanliness throughout the day. The new hours will be:

• :
  • Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. –– 11 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. –– 10 p.m.
• RWC @ Knights Plaza
  • Daily: Noon –– 9 p.m.
• • Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. –– 10 p.m.
  • Friday: Noon –– 6 p.m.
  • Saturday – Sunday: 3 p.m. –– 9 p.m.

The RWC will be expanding hours by the start of Summer B on June 28 as the department hires and trains new staff to better serve its patrons. Go to  or download the RWC To Go mobile to check on updates to our hours of operation.

Students will also see return to see the return of indoor group exercise classes in studios and upcoming team sports tournaments. As we return to more programming, RWC is hiring intramural sports officials and certified lifeguards.

Students looking for .

For a limited time, the RWC is waiving the certification fee for students to certify, train, and hire new lifeguards. The RWC will hold a two-day class on consecutive Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 12 and June 19. Students looking for .

Per Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ guidelines face coverings are no longer required, but RWC staff continue strongly encourage the use of masks and physical distancing indoors where appropriate and to observe CDC guidelines on our campuses and everywhere you go. For the RWC to continue to expand to more robust programming we strongly encourage all Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students to get fully vaccinated as soon as they can. Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Student Health Services is providing COVID-19 vaccines, and these vaccines are readily available in the community.

The Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Recreation and Wellness Center, RWC @ Downtown and RWC Lap Pool will open again with extended hours. The RWC is also reopening the Climbing Tower and RWC @ Knights Plaza. The RWC will continue to offer in-person outdoor programming that optimizes student safety (intramural sports, Outdoor Adventure trips, on-campus adventures, and outdoor group exercise classes).

The Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Recreation and Wellness Center and RWC @ Downtown will reopen for students starting Jan. 11 with extended hours. The RWC is also reopening the Climbing Tower and RWC @ Knights Plaza. The RWC will continue to offer in-person outdoor programming that optimizes student safety (Intramural Sports, Outdoor Adventure Trips and On Campus Adventures, and outdoor Group Exercise Classes).The RWC will continue to offer programming through its RWC+ virtual platform, as well.

Each facility will have limited hours for students and paying members to work out and will feature new safety and check-in procedures to help comply with COVID-19 guidelines at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½. Paying members at the RWC can opt back into their memberships starting Jan. 4.

Scott Mauro ’94 ’19MA, marketing and communications manager at the RWC, says the staff has attended trainings to properly and safely welcome back students.

“Every system we have in place is meant to promote the health and well-being of our students, staff, and members,” Mauro says. “It’s important to our team to give our users that peace of mind.â€�

“We’ve been looking at best practices in the campus recreation field as well as adhering to university guidelines to keep everyone safe.�

Mauro also stresses that the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ RWC does not fall into the same category as for-profit gyms open to the public.

“We adhere to the best practices in the campus recreation field as well as university guidelines to help promote everyone’s safety,â€� he says.

Here are some details of their current operational practices.

Which facilities are currently open?

Outdoor Venues

• William E. and Mary Jo Davis Recreation Area at Lake Claire
• RWC Park
• Tennis courts
• Outdoor Adventure Center
• Outdoor basketball courts

Fitness classes will be offered in person at Lake Claire, RWC Park and Garage B, as well as virtually through RWC+. .

These facilities have modified hours to accommodate cleanings, inclement weather and adjusted policies regarding equipment rentals, group gatherings, reservations, etc. Weather alerts will also be available on the RWC website to help students with planning.

Indoor Venues

• RWC (including the Lap Pool and Climbing Tower)
• RWC @ Downtown
• RWC @ Knights Plaza

The RWC will have a maximum capacity of 125 users and will require reservations in advance for time slots throughout the day. The RWC @ Downtown and RWC @ Knights Plaza facilities will have a maximum capacity of 15 users at any given time, with real-time capacity listed on the RWC website.

What are the hours of operation?

You can find the most up-to-date hours of operation for all facilities on the RWC’s openings, reservations and safety measures webpage.

More than 30 pieces of cardio equipment have been moved to one of the basketball courts to open more space on the main floor and help adhere to physical-distancing guidelines.

Only currently enrolled Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students and individuals with a current RWC membership may access the facilities.

Watercraft rentals at Lake Claire are available and will be cleaned after use. However, other equipment rentals for sports such as tennis or badminton will not be offered. Students must bring their own equipment.

The RWC is has transitioned to contact-free entry and has installed barcode readers at check-in stations. Each student will be assigned a barcode, which is available through the RWC to Go mobile app. To download on your mobile device, search Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Recreation and Wellness Center in IOS and Android app stores.

All students will be required to sign a liability and risk assumption waiver, which can be accessed through the RWC website and mobile app. The waiver is valid for one year. Students will not gain entry to facilities without signing the waiver.

In order to provide the safest environment, the RWC is committed to extensive cleaning and disinfectant practices following university, CDC guidelines and industry-best standards. The RWC will use EPA-registered disinfectants proven to eliminate COVID-19 on surfaces.

Sanitizing stations will be provided at all indoor and outside facilities during operating hours as well as increasing frequency of custodial rounds to address high-touch points.

Extra disinfectant wipes for gym equipment will be available.

In accordance with university and CDC guidelines, the RWC will require face coverings in all inside spaces at all times.

In a situation such as outdoor singles tennis, students will not be required to wear a face covering.

When the RWC closed its physical spaces in March 2020, it created RWC+, an online extension of the RWC that includes a variety of programs to reduce stress by staying active. From virtual group fitness classes to esports leagues, RWC+ allows Knights to continue to connect with the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ community from anywhere.

RWC+ is also planning to create more programs that encourage students to get outdoors whether it is fitness classes or special programs like virtual 5k training.

“I believe some form of RWC+ will be offered to students from here on out.�

Mauro says he expects RWC+ to continue, even as the department resumes more of its in-person services.

“I believe some form of RWC+ will be offered to students from here on out,� Mauro says.

RWC+, esports, online games and sports trivia are offered at this time.

In the fall, esports will continue to be offered, and small-group, in-person sports that allow physical distancing will be permitted, including singles badminton, cornhole, golf, tennis, etc. Team sports where physical distancing cannot be maintained will not be offered.

Where to Find Up-to-Date Information

• RWC app
• RWC’s Safety page
• @Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½RWC on Twitter and Instagram

For the latest information about returning to campus, visit Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s coronavirus and Returning to Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ websites. Students, faculty, staff and visitors will be required to complete the COVID Self-Checker — available via the or online — each day before arriving to campus.

Preliminary statistics indicate Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s fall freshman class has an average GPA of 4.18, the strongest in university history. The Class of 2024 also ranks among the university’s top three classes for standardized test scores with average SAT and ACT scores of 1322 and 28.7, respectively.

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s total student enrollment for the fall is expected to be slightly higher than last year, which was approximately 69,500 students. Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ also anticipates a record-high number of freshmen returning for their second year, with about 92 percent of freshmen who began last fall registered to continue their studies at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ this year. Summer 2020 enrollment was up seven percent over last year and was the university’s highest summer enrollment ever.

Aug. 26 marks the first anniversary of the opening of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Downtown. A joint venture with Valencia College, the campus provides its more than 7,000 students with unique educational and career opportunities in the heart of downtown Orlando.

This fall, more than three-quarters of Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s lecture, lab and discussion classes will be online or remote, and about one-quarter will include an in-person experience. Typically, the busiest class hours on campus have around 18,500 students in classrooms. This fall, that number will be closer to 3,000.

The university is launching more than two dozen new degree programs, tracks and certificates this fall — most designed for online delivery — that target high-demand fields ranging from business and engineering to optics and health. New programs include a master’s degree in travel technology and analytics, new degree tracks in accounting and aerospace, civil, mechanical and environmental engineering, as well as 11 new online graduate certificate programs designed in direct response to COVID-19.

A Focus on a Safer Return to Campus

In an effort to enhance the health and well-being of the campus community, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ has implemented several changes. The university developed a new COVID Self-Checker for its existing mobile app. Faculty, staff and students are asked to complete a daily questionnaire in the app, which asks about symptoms of, and possible exposure to, COVID-19. Those with symptoms are not cleared to return to campus.

The entire campus community is asked to take the voluntary “Armor Up Pledge,� acknowledging their personal responsibilities to help protect themselves, classmates and the campus community. Any student, staff or faculty member who is concerned about exposure or who wants a test can contact our COVID-19 hotline at 407-823-2509 for a referral to get tested at the drive-through testing site in Garage A on the main campus.

This summer, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ implemented extensive new cleaning and sanitization measures on campus, expending close to $5 million for improvements that included adding Plexiglas in high-traffic locations, installing hundreds of touchless fixtures, and upgrading ventilation systems and filtration.

Both incoming freshman and returning students will see finished renovation projects and safety modifications implemented at several key campus facilities.

The newly renovated Student Union — the Heart of Campus — reopened on Aug. 8, featuring expanded dining options, a full-service Starbucks on the second floor, and additional seating and square footage.

The university completed the first phase of an expansion to the John C. Hitt Library, the first major overhaul to the library — Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s oldest building — since 1984. Library renovations include a new north entrance, fourth floor reading rooms with a 270-degree view of campus, and a special collections gallery space, which will display a variety of library-owned art.

The Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Recreation and Wellness Center and RWC @ Downtown have both reopened with modified hours, a new reservation system and updated safety guidelines.

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Dining Services has increased safety and cleaning procedures throughout the dining halls and restaurants they manage. Grab-and-go and take-out meals are encouraged along with using outdoor spaces to eat, but limited indoor, physically distanced seating eating options will also be available. Students can also take advantage of mobile ordering from any Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Dining establishment through the Grubhub app.

The annual weeklong celebration to instill school spirit, Pegasus Palooza — which welcomes students to the fall semester with a mix of virtual and physically distant in-person events — kicked off last night with the Knighting. Events will include a drive-in Movie Knight near Bounce House Stadium and a Comedy Knight on Zoom.

“This is a good chance to make being active a priority and establish a consistent routine to reduce sedentary behavior.â€� – Jeanette Garcia, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ assistant professor

While you should be taking some time to relax during this stressful pandemic, it’s also important to focus on your health and well-being, which staying active can help maintain.

No matter your level of fitness experience, Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ health sciences Assistant Professor Jeanette Garcia, says being active at home can benefit you now and in the future when the COVID-19 pandemic is over.

“When we’re on the go so much I don’t think people realize how much time they spend sitting, especially when they’re doing it in multiple environments, such as work and home, in a day,� Garcia says “Now that we’re at home most of the day, this is a good chance to make being active a priority and establish a consistent routine to reduce sedentary behavior and get moving.�

Here she shares some reasons why it’s important to stay active while staying home.

• Maintain clarity:ÌýWhen you’re sitting for a long period of time you start to lose good posture and feel sluggish, making it difficult to focus on school assignments or work. So, take time to stretch, get your body moving or walk around a bit every hour. Many studies also show that being active helps with mental health and improves academic performance.
• Promote good mood:ÌýStaying in one place for long can make start to make you feel caged in, so changing your environment is important even as staying home and social distancing remain top priorities. Make it a point to go outside and get some fresh air every day. If you can, do so every 10 minutes once an hour.
• Protect your immune system:ÌýBeing outside not only helps you feel refreshed, it also boosts vitamin D, which helps maintain normal immune-system function. You can also promote a healthy immune system by engaging in moderate aerobic activity, such as a brisk walk or dancing.
• Develop interests and gain confidence:ÌýNow is a great time for people to try new types of workout and find what they like, because ultimately the most beneficial exercise is the type you enjoy and will commit to. Being active at home gives novices the chance to become familiar with different exercises so they can gain experience and confidence in their athletic ability. This can be helpful for maintaining a workout regime or becoming comfortable exercising around others when social distancing is no longer needed.

“You should listen to your body to determine what kinds of exercise and how much to incorporate into your routine.” – Kyra Dickie’16, RWC assistant director of Fitness

While Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s Recreation and Wellness Center locations are closed until further notice, staff members are still providing services to help you stay active at home through its new RWC+ programming, which is available online and through social channels (@Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½RWC on  Instagram, and ). Starting April 15, you can also tune in every Wednesday on Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s IG account (@ucf.edu) at 9 a.m., noon and 5 p.m. for Workout Wednesdays live sessions.

These materials include original content, such livestream fitness classes on IG Live and daily online home workout videos, as well as links to external fitness resources.

“The RWC strives to provide an eclectic variety of ways we can get students moving in ways they want to be moving. With this transition into remote offerings through RWC+, that goal still stays the same,â€� says Kyra Dickie ’16, assistant director of Fitness for Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s Recreation and Wellness Center. Dickie, who studied sports and exercise science at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ and has worked in the fitness industry for more than 7 years, shares some tips for staying active at home.

• Listen to your body: There are so many different ways to be active, from bike riding to weightlifting, and playing with your pet to walking, so you should listen to your body to determine what kinds of exercise and how much to incorporate into your routine. Challenge yourself, but if something doesn’t feel right or you’re experiencing pain, ease off the exercise. You may also want to consider how your sleeping and eating habits are affecting your ability to be active and adjust accordingly.
• Use a trusted source: At this time there are so many resources from gyms, workout studios and fitness influencers. But you should focus on the material higher education institutions are putting out because they’re probably the safest. At Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½, we require that every personal and group exercise trainer has up-to-date certification. Our material is designed to be attainable for most people too, and it’s free for everyone to use.
• Stretch and hydrate daily: One thing everyone should do every day is stretch. When you’re sitting, you’re just in one plane of motion, but when you stretch you activate different planes of motion, which helps lubricate your joints, create more flexibility in your muscles, and boost positive hormones and energy in your brain and body. Now is also a great time to make sure you’re drinking enough water, which is different for every person based on weight, health, level of activity and environment.
• No equipment? No problem: Everyone has objects in their homes that can double as workout equipment, such as textbooks for weights and a chair that can be used for tricep dips. But with or without equipment, you can still get a good workout by completing bodyweight exercises, such as yoga, which only requires some space.
• Staying motivated and tracking progress: Depending on what your goals are there are different apps for tracking exercise-related progress and maintaining motivation, but I recommend everyone focus on the feeling of being active. You can write down how you feel after each workout in a journal or text a friend to let them know you’ve had an awesome workout, which may motivate them and inspire you to keep going.

While there are plenty of beaches, water parks and natural springs in the area to seek out for a refreshing plunge, there are also a variety of indoor activities — where the AC is blowing strong — to help you enjoy the summer months ahead.

1. Bite 30

Orlando is a foodie town, and thanks to June’s Bite30, we all have the chance to indulge in some of the City Beautiful’s best restaurants without the worry of a hefty bill at the end. From June 1-30, Bite30’s participating restaurants offer special prix fixe menus that feature multi-course dinners at a set price of $30. Diners get the opportunity to try multiple dishes on the restaurant’s menu for about the cost of a single entree, and restaurants get to showcase their specialty dishes.

Visit for a complete listing of restaurants and their menus.

2. Take a Fitness Class at Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s Recreation and Wellness Center

It may seem a little counterintuitive if you’re aiming to avoid sweat, but the Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Recreation and Wellness Center offers some low-key such as yoga and guided meditation that provide health benefits while still keeping your heart rate down. If you aren’t afraid of a little sweat, they’ve also got some more creative exercise options such as hip-hop cardio or trampoline classes.

Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ students who have paid their activity and service fee can enjoy an unlimited membership to all the RWC facilities and programs at no extra cost. Faculty, staff and other Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½-affiliated members of the community can access the facilities and classes through a membership. Visit the to learn more.

3. Get Schooled in Life Skills

Have you wondered how to negotiate your salary or the best way to nail an interview for your dream job? Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Career Services offers workshops for students and alumni that address those very topics, and best of all, they’re free. Check out the and make sure you register before attending through . For questions, email career@ucf.edu.

Key Upcoming Workshops

June 20: Salary Negotiation

June 26: Building Your Online Brand

July 11: Interviewing Strategies

4. Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing

Consider taking a day trip to the Space Coast. Located less than an hour’s drive from Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½â€™s main campus, Kennedy Space Center has several events planned in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11’s moon landing:

July 15: Grand relaunching of the Apollo/Saturn V Center that will include interactive and immersive exhibits

July 16: Historic launch flashback eventJuly 20: One Giant Leap celebration

July 24: Welcome Home Apollo 11 event in the Rocket Garden

More information about these activities can be found on .

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation also will host , including an astronaut parade and women-in-space panel.

5. Learn to Craft the Perfect Cocktail (ages 21+)

Make the most of your free time by learning a new skill. The Courtesy Bar in downtown Orlando offers a cocktail class every first and third Saturday of the month. The class will teach the proper way to make classic cocktails, and the $55 fee per person includes the instructions, materials, three full-size cocktails and gratuity. Spaces fill up fast. Email info@thecourtesy.com to check availability and book your date.

6. Race like a NASCAR Driver

Get behind the wheel and race against your friends at either Andretti Indoor Karting & Games or I-Drive NASCAR. The two facilities are located within five miles of each other, so if you’re feeling really competitive, you can easily check out both tracks in the same day. Andretti (9299 Universal Blvd.) also features laser tag, zip lining and a two-minute coaster. NASCAR (5228 Vanguard St.) offers pool tables, an arcade and bowling.

7. Explore a Museum

No matter your age, you can easily spend hours in any of Orlando’s award-winning museums.

The Â鶹ӳ»­´«Ã½ Art Gallery is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and admission is always free.

Pro tip: If you’re a Bank of America customer, you can enjoy one free general admission ticket on the first full weekend of every month to any of the following Orlando museums:

• Orange County Regional History Center
• Orlando Museum of Art
• Orlando Science Center
• The Mennello Museum of American Art

And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you might consider visiting the World of Chocolate Museum & Café (11701 International Drive), which includes tasting as part of its tours.