IA series missing the positives
What the Innovation Academy series fails to point out is that IA is designed as a template for its students. IA students have the power to advance IA throughout UF in their own ways.
This is one of the greatest aspects of IA. We can break through barriers whereas traditional students do not have the same opportunity. IA brings out the ambition in students to strive to improve UF while advancing IA.
Our students are exceptional leaders throughout campus. Since the inaugural IA class, our students have pressed on to end discrimination against IA students. Now, IA students are allowed without question to go to sporting events, lead student organizations and take charge in Student Government in both parties.
What the Alligator’s reporting missed is the main reason that IA exists: Students want to be in IA. The IA application includes a separate essay where potential students make an extra attempt to have the opportunity to learn how to innovate in an economy in need of a different way of thinking. IA’s curriculum offers a non-traditional way of learning that shapes students for the new job market. While there may be a few bumps in the road, IA is leading the charge to change a university system that produces followers into a specialized program that builds leaders.
While I appreciate the Alligator’s coverage of IA, it is unfortunate that the negative stereotype some carry about IA is being promoted by some within the Alligator. But it is ultimately up to IA students to combat this misrepresentation through action on campus.
Connor Corzine
UF IA Student, political science major and former student senator
