Welcome to The Compass, where each week you can find dozens of ways to get connected, get involved, and make the most out of the SF community. Below, we have news and updates, academic and scholarship opportunities, cultural and community events, volunteer and service involvements, and preprofessional opportunities. Not only are these great ways to get involved at SF and beyond, but they're also some of the many ways that you can earn points in the Honors Program and Global Scholars Program. For more information on how to join these programs or record your involvement for points, just visit them online or email honorsxglobal@sfcollege.edu.
In this Edition:
News & Updates
Academic & Scholarship Opportunities
Cultural & Community Events
Volunteer & Community Service
Employment & Preprofessional Opportunities
News & Updates
Planning to Graduate with Honors? Apply for Graduation Now!
Are you planning to wrap up your time at SF in the Spring or Summer? Lock in your Honors credential and apply for Honors Graduation now. The deadline to apply was January 30, but there is still time if you need to apply for graduation this spring or summer.You should apply for Honors Graduation if:
You are planning to graduate this semester or over the summer, or have previously completed your degree at SF.
You expect this or the summer to be your final semester at SF.
You expect to earn at least 150 Honors Points before finishing this semester.
The graduation application takes only a few minutes, so plan to knock it out today.
What else do I need to do to graduate with Honors or Global Scholars?
If you plan to graduate with Honors, your first step is to complete the application. We'll plan to review your points, verify your status, and be in touch with additional information. To check on your graduation status for Global Scholars, please email International Education Coordinator, Matt Michel, at matt.michel@sfcollege.edu.
Is there a graduation event for students earning Honors or Global Scholars designations?
At the end of the semester, we award Honors and Global Scholars medallions at the Honors x Global Scholars awards ceremony. After applying for graduation, please keep an eye on your email for more information about this event.
What do I need to do if I plan to enter UF's Honors Program?
Because of our pilot transfer pathway, you can plan to transfer into UF's Honors Program if:
You graduate from SF with Highest Honors.
You complete your Honors Program requirements, including submitting documentation, before June 1.
You are accepted to UF for the Fall semester.
If all of these are true, you will receive an invitation this summer to join UF's Honors Program. You won't need to take any action to make this happen.
Academic & Scholarship Opportunities
NISOD Student Essay & Graphic Design Contests
Earn 15 Honors Points 1 Global Scholars Point
Win $1,000 and a trip to a national conference! NISOD is hosting two student competitions to celebrate excellence in community colleges.
Student Essay Contest: Write about a faculty or staff member who inspired you.
Graphic Design Contest: Design the official poster for the 2027 NISOD conference.
Prizes (for each contest):
$1,000 cash prize
Complimentary conference registration & hotel lodging
Up to $400 in travel reimbursement
Deadline: March 6, 2026
UF CURBS: Undergraduate Research Student Leadership
Earn 5 Honors Points 1 Global Scholars Point
Interested in becoming a leader in undergraduate research? The University of Florida’s Center for Undergraduate Research Board of Students (CURBS) is hosting a virtual roundtable for student leaders at Santa Fe College.
Virtual Roundtable: Join the discussion on February 23rd at 5 PM to connect with other student researchers and learn about leadership roles.
Statewide Opportunities: Learn how to contribute to the new Florida Undergraduate Research Newsletter, highlighting research and summer programming across the state.
How to Get Involved: Fill out the CURBS Interest Form to receive the Zoom link and calendar invite for the session.
Emerging Infectious Diseases: Using New Tools to Address “Wicked” Health Problems
Earn 5 Honors Points 1 Global Scholars Point
In this session, Dr. Anderson will explore how complex infectious disease challenges, ranging from zoonotic spillover to global pandemics, require innovative, interdisciplinary approaches. The talk highlights new frameworks and tools that are transforming how we detect, monitor, and respond to emerging health threats.
Dr. Anderson will also share his personal career journey, beginning as a Santa Fe College student and ultimately becoming a faculty member and program director at the University of Florida.
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 3rd 10 am
Location: S-326
Admission: Free!
Lawrence W. Tyree Library Events for All Students – Spring 2026
Looking for something engaging, helpful, or just plain fun this spring? The Tyree Library has a full lineup of events designed to support your success and give you a break when you need it.
Wellness Wednesdays
March 4 & April 1
1–2 p.m. | Y-240
Take an hour to reset. These sessions focus on student wellness and practical strategies for managing stress during the semester.
Secrets in the Stacks: A Clue-Inspired Mystery
Kickoff: March 2 | 2:30–4:30 p.m. | Library Lobby
Self-paced: March 2–13 | Tyree Library & Online
Put your detective skills to work in this interactive mystery experience. Join the kickoff event, then solve clues at your own pace over the following two weeks.
Research & Citation Workshops
APA Made Simple
March 25 | 2:30–3:30 p.m.
MLA Made Simple
March 30 | 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Chicago Made Simple
(Chicago session earlier in semester; no additional dates after Feb. 13.)
Source Savvy: Crafting a Research-Driven Paper
March 26 | 1–2 p.m.
Beyond Google: Smart Strategies for Research
April 7 | 2:30–3:30 p.m.
These workshops help you strengthen your research and citation skills—whether you’re polishing a paper or just getting started. Online sessions are available via Zoom: https://sfcollege.zoom.us/my/reference
Finals Snack Break
April 20 & 21
1–3 p.m. | Library Lobby
Stop by during finals week for free snacks and a quick recharge before heading back to your studying.
Tales and Treats: Storytime with Your VP
April 22
2:30–3:30 p.m. | Y-240
Celebrate the end of the semester with a relaxed storytime event and treats.
All events are open to students. Mark your calendar and plan to stop by!
Artifice, Energy, Intelligence: French and Francophone Speculative Fiction in the Anthropocene
Earn 5 Honors Points 1 Global Scholars Point
As part of the Environmental Humanities series, Dr. Sean Singh Matharoo (UNC Chapel Hill) will discuss AI and energy in French and francophone speculative fiction. This in-person event is sponsored by The France Florida Research Institute and the Imagining Climate Change initiative at UF.
Date: Monday, February 23, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM EST
Location: Library West, Scott Nygren Studio
Ticket Pricing:
Free Admission
The Elk Ridge Community in the Mimbres Pueblo World
5 Honors Points 1 Global Scholars Point
Join the Department of Anthropology, the Archaeological Institute of America, and the George A. Smathers Libraries for the final lecture in the Archaeology of the Americas series.
Dr. Barbara Roth (University of Nevada) will discuss the Elk Ridge pueblo, the largest community in the northern Mimbres River Valley during the Classic Mimbres period (1000-1130). Learn how recent UNLV excavations of this uniquely preserved site offer new insights into its people and their thriving ancient community.
Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM EST (Doors open & light refreshments) | 5:30 PM (Lecture begins)
Location: Smathers Library Room 100
Ticket Pricing:
Free and open to the public
Ancient Philosophy Workshop
5 Honors Points for Attending an Event
UF Philosophy is hosting a two-day Ancient Philosophy Work-In-Progress (WIP) Workshop. Co-sponsored by the Center for Greek Studies and the Center for Humanities and the Public Sphere, this event features presentations from visiting scholars from USF, FSU, FAU, and UCF.
Date: Friday, February 27 – Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: Starts Friday at 3:00 PM EST | Ends Saturday at 4:00 PM EST
Location: Griffin-Floyd Hall 303, University of Florida
Agenda Highlights:
Friday (3:30 PM – 6:00 PM): Sessions covering Plato’s "View from Nowhere" and Aristotle's disagreements on perception and appearance.
Saturday (9:30 AM – 4:00 PM): Sessions exploring topics such as the rule of law in Anonymous Iamblichi, moderation in Plato’s Charmides, Aristotle’s wisdom, and definitions of number in antiquity.
Cultural & Community Events
India Fest 2026
Earn 5 Honors Points 5 Global Scholars Points
Experience the vibrant culture of India right here in Alachua! India Fest is a family-friendly celebration featuring traditional music, dance performances, authentic food, and local shopping.
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Performances run throughout the afternoon)
Location: Alachua, FL
Santa Fe Pop Ensemble
Earn 5 Honors Points 5 Global Scholars Points
Prepare for an engaging night of modern music with Santa Fe's Contemporary Pop Ensemble. This concert will feature student-crafted arrangements of contemporary pop compositions, alongside innovative original works. It's an opportunity to experience the creativity and skill of Santa Fe College's emerging musical talent.
Date: Wednesday, March 4th
Time: 7:30pm-9:30pm
Location: Lyceum Concert Hall
Ticket Pricing: Free!
Romeo and Juliet
Earn 5 Honors Points 5 Global Scholar Points
The greatest love story ever told. This great Shakespearian tragedy is brought to life by the dancers of Dance Alive and the choreography of the late Tom Pazik with exquisite costumes and stunning scenery. The heartbreaking feud between the Capulets and Montagues results in the doomed lovers’ deaths and a sad reconciliation for the families. Would that the world could learn from the Bard’s story.
Date: Saturday, February 21
Time: 7:30pm
Location: Philips Center
Tickets: $35-$75
Savoring Europe's Flavors, Liquid Gold: Oils and Fats
Earn 5 Honors Points 5 Global Scholar Point
Explore specific aspects of European culinary traditions (lecture and culinary presentation format). Preservation techniques, unique dishes, ingredients less common or almost unknown in the U.S. cooking. Perfect for food lovers curious about European flavors and culinary traditions! Must fill out interest form to be contacted for payment and confirmation.
Date: Tuesday, February 24th
Time: 7:30pm
Location: Squitieri Theatre 3201 Hull Road Gainesville, Fl 32606
Class Fee: $15
Gainesville Unplugged
Earn 5 Honors Points 3 Global Scholar Points
Step away from the screens and reconnect with nature at Gainesville Unplugged! This community celebration brings together music, makers, food, and fun—all in the beautiful setting of Morningside Nature Center. Explore local vendors offering wellness and nature-inspired products, enjoy live entertainment, and try your hand at creative projects in the makers area. Families can learn and play at interactive educational stations, while everyone can relax, build community, and rediscover the benefits of living unplugged.
Date: Saturday, February 21st
Time: 9am-2pm
Location: Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Avenue, 32641
SOAR: Science-Oriented Activities and Recreation
Earn 5 Honors Points Earn 5 Global Scholar Points
SOAR to discover science through this interactive program. On the second Thursday of the month during the school year, our nature interpreters provide fun, nature-based activities or fun team games at the Maker Space at the Gainesville Housing Authority (200 SE 26th Street).
Date: Thursday, March 12th
Time: 3:30-4:30pm
Location: Maker Space, 200 SE 26th Street, 32641
Annual 5th Ave Arts Festival
Earn 5 Honors Points Earn 5 Global Scholar Points
The Fifth Avenue Arts Festival, organized annually by the Cultural Arts Coalition in Gainesville, Florida, is a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community. Held in the historic Fifth Avenue neighborhood, this event highlights the rich cultural heritage of the area through a diverse showcase of artistic expression.
Date: April 24-26th
Time: 10am-6pm
Location: Santa Fe College Blount Center
Volunteer & Community Service
Make an Impact: Student Volunteers Wanted for SF's Annual Open House!
Earn 1 Honors Point per Hour of Service Earn 1 Global Scholar Point per Hour of Service
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Location: NW Campus
Time: 8:45 AM - 2:15 PM
Take part in welcoming prospective students and their families at Santa Fe College's Open House! This is a great opportunity for current Santa Fe students to showcase their school spirit, share their experiences, and help create a memorable day for visitors exploring the college's offerings.
Student Volunteer Role:
Greets prospective students and families
Provides clear, precise directions to buildings and classrooms across campus
Assists in passing out T-shirts and SF swag bags
Answers questions about student life and campus resources
Benefits of Volunteering:
Becoming more connected with campus and shaping the future of SF
Broadening your network with faculty, staff, and current students
Receiving volunteer hours or Honors points (if applicable)
Free lunch and SF T-Shirt
Requirements:
Must be a current SF student in good standing
Familiar with buildings, academic and student services, and landmarks on the NW campus
Friendly, passionate, and reliable
Comfortable with public speaking and interacting with prospective students, parents, and guardians
Depot Park Run & West End Community Parkrun
Earn 5 Honors Points for attending an event Earn 1 Global Scholar Point per Hour of Service
See the links below to volunteer!
Volunteer with Alachua County Animal Resources!
Earn 1 Honors Point per Hour of Service Earn 1 Global Scholar Point per Hour of Service
Help support the care, rescue, and adoption of animals in our community at the Alachua County Animal Resources shelter (3400 NE 53rd Ave, Gainesville). Volunteers can assist with animal care, events, transport, enrichment activities like “Doggy Day Out,” and more. Orientation and training are required, long pants and closed-toe shoes must be worn, and youth volunteers ages 10–17 may participate with a parent/guardian. This is a great opportunity to make a real impact, gain experience in animal welfare, and give back to Alachua County.
Environmental Protection Volunteer Opportunity
Earn 1 Honors Point per Hour of Service Earn 1 Global Scholar Point per Hour of Service
Serve your community while helping protect local natural resources with the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department. Volunteers support environmental stewardship efforts such as conservation, sustainability initiatives, and hands-on activities like tree planting that help keep Alachua County clean, healthy, and resilient. Volunteer events typically take place on Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM in Gainesville. This is a great opportunity for students interested in environmental service, community impact, and sustainability.
Florida 4-H Youth Development Program – Serve & Support Youth!
Earn 1 Honor Points per Hour of Service Earn 1 Global Scholar Point per Hour of Service
Florida 4-H is a statewide youth development program run by UF/IFAS Extension that inspires young people to learn, lead, and serve through hands-on projects in areas like science, agriculture, leadership, healthy living, and civic engagement. Volunteers — including adult mentors, project leaders, and club advisors — play a vital role by guiding youth, sharing skills, and helping deliver clubs, camps, workshops, and community activities that build real-world skills and confidence. This is a great opportunity to support positive youth development across Florida and make a meaningful impact in your community.
Alternative Spring Break trip to Tallahassee
30 Honors Points for Participating 15 Global Scholar Points
Apply for the Alternative Spring Break trip to Tallahassee happening from March 15th-17th!
Employment & Preprofessional Opportunities
UF Pre-Health Advising Services Spring Term 2026
Pre-Health advising appointments are available in-person and remote through Zoom Monday through Friday. Our 30-minute appointments are open 7 days in advance and are bookable through the Connect Survey.
The Pre-Health Advising Team is offering mock interview appointments. Students must submit a professional school interview invitation from the 2025 application cycle, as well as all of their application materials (pre-health resume and/or personal statement) at the time of booking or it will be canceled, as sufficient time is needed for advisor feedback.
UF Pre-Professional Interest Now Live!
Whether you’re exploring pre-professional tracks in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physical or occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, or another health profession, preparing for these fields requires thoughtful planning and guidance.
To better support students like you, UF is launching a pilot initiative that allows you to indicate your Pre-Health interest to the university. This initiative is supported by UF Student Success and the UF Pre-Health Advising Members.
By opting in, your student account will reflect your Pre-Health interest, making you easily identifiable to the advising community. This helps advisors connect with Pre-Health students and allows UF to better understand Pre-Health interest across campus. This designation is purely informational and does not impact your academic record. You can also opt out at any time.
If you’re interested, visit UF Pre-Professional Interest to opt in. Your participation helps us refine and enhance the Pre-Health advising experience at UF. For more Pre-Health resources and advising, visit Pre-Health Advising Website.
Social Sustainability Leadership Forum
30 Honors Points Per Semester 15 Global Scholars Points
An 8-day program uniting student leaders from around the world to explore social sustainability through the lens of Sustainable Development Goal #4: Quality Education. Students will engage in dialogues, workshops, and visits with Singaporean industry and education leaders. Applications due by March 1st!
Date: 30 June - 7 July
Dream Team Engineering Shadowing Opportunity
30 Honors Points Per Semester 15 Global Scholars Points
Dream Team Engineering is a group of engineering and non-engineering students alike that are dedicated to making novel technologies to enhance the lives of the patients at UF Health Shands, the surrounding Gainesville community, and beyond. The Shadowing Program is a semester-long opportunity for freshmen and sophomore students to gain hands-on experience while rotating through various DTE sub-teams! Experience is not needed, they are just looking for students who are willing to learn and interested in the engineering field. If you are interested in applying for the program please email the Director of Shadowing, Ari Friedman, at shadowing@dreamteameng.org.