Student Success at Scale
From the start, UCF has opened doors to opportunity and excellence at scale. With dedicated mentors, flexible pathways and industry-informed academic programs, we help students graduate in four years, prepared to lead in industries that fuel Florida’s future.
Mike McKee ’07MeD
Associate Director of Academic Support Services, CREOL
Managing the undergraduate program at CREOL, the College of Optics and Photonics, Mike McKee ’07MeD maintains personal connections with over 150 students. His outreach efforts, including school talks, summer camps and a teacher ambassador program, have directly inspired many students to join UCF’s photonics program — strengthening our talent pipeline of future-ready innovators.
My focus has always been on promoting inquiry-based learning and shifting instructional beliefs to foster greater student success.”
Christian Viau
Senior Academic Success Coach, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Hayley Ellis
DirectConnect to UCF Student, Double Major in Health Sciences, and Molecular and Cellular Biology
I think providing [a] support system coming from inside the institution is really vital for students. And that’s a driving factor for me as a success coach. Because in my undergrad, I would have loved to have someone I could have leaned on, and built a relationship with that really helped me succeed.”
Nearly 14% Increase in Our 4-Year Graduation Rate over the past 4 years, a remarkable improvement that’s unprecedented at our scale
92% Freshman Retention Rate with the help of academic success coaches, flexible program pathways and strong resources for support
Jack Livingston
Computer Science Student, and COMPASS, EXCEL and Math Launch Participant
[Math Launch] not only accelerated my progress in math, but also gave me the tools and support to stay on track. … The personalized approach and resources made a huge difference, helping me build confidence and connections that I carried into my higher-level courses and even my professional internship. It’s a program that truly sets students up for success.”
Chloe Pinkston ’25
Medical Student and Aerospace Engineering Alum
UCF definitely gave me a lot of resources and opportunities that allowed me to … explore different interests and create my own path. … UCF provides an environment that allows students to pursue their dreams. I’m really thankful for everything UCF has done for me.”