Gator Gaming

This past May, I graduated from the University of Florida as a first-generation student with degrees in Political Science and Public Relations. These last four years have been an incredibly transformative experience and I will forever cherish the memories I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned throughout my time at UF. I had the opportunity to serve as a leader for organizations and offices like Gator Gaming, Machen Florida Opportunity Scholarship Program, and the Center for New Student, Parent & Family Engagement. This culmination of academics and experience gained through my extra curriculars prepared me with the knowledge and confidence I needed to pursue internships at dream companies of mine like Warner Bros. Games and Google. I am grateful for all of the friends, mentors, and faculty who have inspired me to be the person (and Gator Alum!!) that I am today. As one chapter closes, another one begins. I am excited to share that this upcoming fall I will be working as an Associate Product Marketing Manager at Google! I look forward to applying all that I’ve learned and continuing to grow in this exciting new role ?

Happy National Video Game Day! ???? Throughout my time at the University of Florida (and of course, my childhood), video games have served as not only a source of relaxation and stress relief, but also a common interest within a caring community. As President of Gator Gaming, I’ve had the honor of playing my part in nurturing a positive and inclusive outlet for students across campus and watching this community grow. This past year, Gator Gaming: ??Became a finalist for the “Organization of the Year” award for the 2023 Scholars Awards — a subsection of the Esports Awards that recognizes collegiate gaming organizations across the nation ??Was the first collegiate gaming organization to partner with YouTube Gaming and Ateyo; paving the way for collaborations with other gaming clubs across the nation and hosting two sponsored events ??Launched a partnership with the Special Olympics; hosting a gaming social for athletes in the Northeastern Region of Florida through a collaboration with UF Special Olympics, University Rhythm Game Enthusiasts, Florida Soccer Fans Club, and the Generational Relief in Prosthetics club ??Partnered with Bronson Middle High School’s Future Business Leaders of America, Inc. (FBLA) chapter to host the “Hope for TJ” charity tournament. With the assistance of local gaming community leaders and Bronson staff, the tournament raised over $3,000 for the cancer treatment of one of their students and established a continuing partnership ??Hosted the “Extra Life” event again this year, raising $2,556 for the UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital via a gaming tournament coupled with a variety of side events and activities ??Transformed our GatorLAN Tournament into a GatorLAN Convention; offering a new variety of student-led panels, side events, and casual activities to further foster an inclusive environment for a collective of over 1,500 casual and competitive gamers of all backgrounds across our two semesterly events My time as a leader within the gaming space on campus has proven to me that this community is not one to ignore. Gaming clubs on college campuses serve as a vibrant hub of compassion, dedication, teamwork, and solidarity. These achievements could not have been possible without a club filled with members passionate about leaving a positive impact on their community and a officer board dedicated to mobilizing such passion. As we recognize the entertainment aspect of gaming today, let’s also celebrate the connections, opportunities, and empowerment it fosters! ??