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College of Agricultural and Life Sciences

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences

Florida Youth Institute (FYI)

The Florida Youth Institute is a life-changing experience at the University of Florida for high school students. Participants get the unique opportunity to engage with local leaders and experts on critical global challenges, participate in hands-on activities, and explore exciting ways to make a difference in Florida and around the world.

Applications for the 2024 Florida Youth Institute are available!

Prospective CALS student observes a butterfly display case at a museum, more students are visible behind her.
Two prospective CALS students wearing gloves and FYI shirts closely observe a test tube
Two female prospective CALS students stand in the grass and remove pond debris they collected in large hand held nets on poles and put the net contents into a white tub.

 

2024 Program Dates: 1 Week, 2 Session Options

  • July 7-12, 2024
  • July 14-19, 2024

One-week residential summer program.

Applicants

This program is for students entering grades 11 and 12 during summer 2024. Applications for this summer are open! 

Application Process

Please note that applications include: An essay prompt, letter of recommendation, high school transcript request, and applicant information. If you have additional questions about the application process or other UF summer programs, visit the UF Center for Precollegiate Education and Training (CPET). More information about the Florida Youth Institute application process can be found through CPET as well.

  • Applications Open: January 15
  • Applications Due: March 6
  • Acceptance and Essay Information Extended: March 20 
  • Final Essay, Fees, and Paperwork Due: April 22

Program Details

As a participant in FYI, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Present research and recommendations on ways to solve key global challenges in a short speech and small group discussions with statewide experts
  • Experience indoor and outdoor laboratories and campus facilities
  • Connect with other student leaders from across Florida to share ideas, identify solutions to these problems and build lasting friendships
  • Explore the issues, current research, and opportunities to make a difference at the University of Florida
  • Interact with global leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs in Florida working to end hunger and poverty and improve food security around the world
  • Meet with UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Dean Dr. Elaine Turner and representatives from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
  • Live in a campus residence hall

Students research issues they care about and propose their ideas to solve these grand challenges. These application papers are entered to compete in The World Food Prize. Students who participate in the Florida Youth Institute are eligible to receive a scholarship to study in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Florida, receive recognition as a Borlaug Scholar, and qualify for internships and further opportunities.

Applicants should be motivated, mature students who are dedicated to the future of agriculture and the related sciences.

The Florida Youth Institute is hosted by the University of Florida with the generous support of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences.

2022 Highlight Videos

Week 1

 

Week 2