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Horizons Unlimited Conference

Monday, March 24, 2025

This full-day conference for Florida State University students will share resources and strategies for success in college, graduate school, and career. Connect with fellow first-generation students, including freshmen, transfer students, and student-athletes, and network with alumni, faculty, and university leaders. Leave motivated and empowered, with new contacts and a community of supporters to cheer you on to unlimited horizons.

Schedule & Sessions

Participants are invited to engage in this year’s conference, with the option to attend the entire event or select specific sessions that align with their interests. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with distinguished speakers and network with peers.
Content subject to change.


10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Student Resource Expo
Second Floor Atrium, Turnbull Conference Center

Explore the Student Resource Exposition, where various campus organizations and community members will be showcased. This is an excellent opportunity to discover the resources available to support academic success, personal growth, and career development. Engage with representatives, gather valuable information, and make connections that will enhance your university experience.

Register for Session


11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Networking Presentation Lunch & Learn
Room 208, Turnbull Conference Center

This presentation will train students to network with peers successfully. Participants will enjoy a Chick-fil-A lunch and foster relationships and build a network for success.

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1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Success through Adversity: Strategies through Athletics
Room 103, Turnbull Conference Center

Being a first-generation student often means encountering adversity and finding opportunities to make the most out of any situation. Learn from student leaders as they share their experiences and lessons learned through the lens of a student-athlete both on and off the field.

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Maximizing the University Experience for Transfer Students
Room 205, Turnbull Conference Center

Making the jump from one institution to another can be both exciting and challenging. Learn about the resources, networks, and opportunities to help find your place as a part of the FSU community.

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2:45 to 3:45 p.m.

Opening Doors to Graduate School
Room 205, Turnbull Conference Center

Hear from peers and professionals as you explore the possibilities of pursuing a graduate-level education. Whether you are interested in a master’s degree or even a doctorate, learn the steps you can take today to become a top candidate and thrive in your next degree program.

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Navigating Life After College: Get Job Ready
Room 103, Turnbull Conference Center

This session will prepare students to launch successful careers after graduating from college. Participants will learn tips for navigating the job search, perfecting the interview, and building a successful career from the first day.

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3:45 to 5:00 p.m.

Reception & Networking with Panelists
Room 208, Turnbull Conference Center

This reception will connect students with alumni and panelists to build a professional network. Participants will learn how to network with alumni in a professional networking setting.
Beverages and hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Register for Session


6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Keynote Presentation: A Conversation with University Trustee Maximo Alvarez
Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, Westcott Building

Join us for an engaging Q&A session featuring Maximo Alvarez, esteemed entrepreneur, and FSU Trustee, interviewed by President Richard McCullough. This session will provide valuable insights into Trustee Alvarez’s journey, his perspectives on leadership, and his contributions to the community. Following the interview, there will be an opportunity for the audience to ask Trustee Alvarez questions.

Register for the Keynote

2024 Horizons Unlimited Conference

The inaugural Horizons Unlimited Conference, Held on February 26, 2024, was proposed by FSU First Lady Dr. Jai Vartikar and organized by first-generation students.

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Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement

CARE provides preparation, orientation, and academic support programming for students who are among the first in their families to attend college and may face unique challenges in college because of educational or economic circumstances.

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Transfer Student Services

Transfer Student Services provides personalized guidance, academic advising, and tailored resources to ensure the success of transfer students at FSU. From credit transfer assistance to integration into campus life, TSS helps students thrive.

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Steering Committee

Many thanks to the first-generation students who served on the Steering Committee to help plan the Horizons Unlimited Conference.

Andres Perez
Leo Perez
Hykeem Williams