Recently, the University of Central Florida has hit the news, mainly because of their past football season and the rise to fame of former quarterback, Blake Bortles. Before defeating Baylor in the 2014 Fiesta Bowl, the school was known as, C. Florida, across the nation, but nobody really knew what else UCF really had to offer. In fact, most people didn't even know that UCF is currently the United States' second largest university.
Besides a growing football program, what else does this huge institution have to offer? This past year, the University of Central Florida celebrated its 50th anniversary as a college. In those 50 years, UCF has managed to accomplish a lot. Besides the main campus located in Orlando, UCF also has 11 other campuses spread throughout the heart of the state. According to the college's website, UCF is currently called home to over 60,000 students from all 50 states in the United States, as well as 140 countries.
In 2011, UCF was named the college with the best homecoming tradition for its annual event, Spirit Splash, when students and alumni both rush into the Reflection Pond to try to get a rubber duck. To non-Knights, you might be a little skeptical, but you will just have to take my word that it is, hands-down, the most incredible experience, and we don't take the title lightly.
Most recently, University Primetime named the university the number one college with the best quality of life. Why? Ask any student who is enrolled here. The university is in Orlando -- the capital of tourism, there is so much to do at UCF, and there is something for everyone! The second largest university with that many people? It is a little intimidating, but there is a club or organization for everyone –– and anyone can find their place here.
The Greek community is also a great place to find people who have the same values and want to succeed in the same things you do. UCF has 12 different Panhellenic chapters, 10 Diversified Greek Council chapters, 19 Interfraternity Council chapters, and 9 National Pan-Hellenic Council chapters. Just like the University, the Greek community is growing. However, if you don't think Greek life is for you, that's okay, too!
Only about 10 percent of the UCF student body is part of the Greek community. There is a place for everyone at the University of Central Florida, Greek or not!
If it is one thing that I have learned from my time here as an undergrad -- UCF truly stands for opportunity. Being so large in population, there are many different ways to get involved and leave your legacy on campus. In fact, a majority of my sisters in my chapter are not only involved in our sorority, but also within many different organizations and clubs on campus!
If you want to go to a university that is going to help you grow as a person, strive to help you succeed, and make you look back on your college with zero regrets, come join the Knight family. I guarantee, you won't be disappointed with your decision.
