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Dear Students:
Welcome to the 2024-25 academic year at the University of South Florida! USF offers wonderful opportunities to learn, grow and create lasting memories as you form friendships and find new interests in a stimulating environment.
As a proud USF alumna, I know from personal experience how much of an impact our university has on the lives of our students. Our highest priority is helping you achieve your educational and career goals, and I am delighted that you have chosen our great university to shape the future and make your mark on the world.
Opportunities for learning abound at USF. Across our 13 colleges, you can choose from more than 200 majors, minors and concentrations regardless of which of our three campuses you are studying at — Tampa, St. Petersburg or Sarasota-Manatee. On our website, you’ll find a complete list of those offerings, from the arts to cybersecurity, from criminology to microbiology, and so much more. I encourage you to review the full list to find the major that suits your interest and puts you on a path toward a rewarding career.
This is a particularly exciting time at USF. Our reputation for world-class research and innovation continues to grow, highlighted by our recent invitation to join the Association of American Universities, a prestigious group of 71 leading public and private research universities in the United States and Canada. This distinct recognition means USF now stands alongside widely respected institutions including Harvard, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Yale and the University of Michigan. As USF Bulls, you can take great pride in knowing that the degree you will earn holds tremendous value and respect because it was earned at one of America’s leading research universities.
Our institution’s commitment to excellence is also recognized here in Florida. USF is one of only three Preeminent State Research Universities, a designation reserved for institutions in the State University System that meet stringent metrics in such areas as student retention and graduation rates. USF is also ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of America’s Top 50 public universities, and we have our sights set on reaching the Top 25. Thanks to your continued pursuit of excellence both in the classroom and beyond, we will get there!
In addition to expanding your knowledge, there is so much to experience outside the classroom. USF is home to a diverse selection of nearly 800 student organizations across our three campuses, and I am confident you can find one or more that complements your interests. By staying active and involved on campus, you will create new memories and form lasting friendships as you also take advantage of everything the Tampa Bay region has to offer — including cultural, recreational and social opportunities, award-winning beaches and exciting collegiate and professional sports.
At USF, we are fully committed to providing a welcoming community where everyone feels a sense of belonging and is encouraged to think boldly about the future. We are focused on fostering student success and making significant contributions throughout Florida, nationally and globally. Our university’s faculty and staff are here to support you; please don’t hesitate to ask
for help as you explore your options. I wish you all the best in your studies, and as always, Go Bulls!
In Bull Pride,
Rhea Law
USF President
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