The UF Health Cancer Institute’s Career Explorations Program provides an opportunity for undergraduates to see cancer research up close, getting a firsthand look at career paths and making lasting connections to propel their success.
In its third year, 41 accomplished undergraduate students from 25 universities across the country participated in the daylong visit, which includes cancer research highlights, information about Ph.D. pathways at UF and a career panel. The students also attended the Cancer Institute’s annual Research Showcase on Jan. 29 as special guests.
Undergraduates had the opportunity to hear a range of perspectives from current graduate students and recent alumni on how to launch a career in cancer research and the different pathways available across disciplines. Rachel Newsome, Ph.D., Mai Tanaka-Wakefield, MPH, Ph.D., Xzaviar Solone, Ph.D., and Zachary Wakefield, Ph.D. discussed their pathways as UF cancer research trainees.
Participant Moyosore Orimoloye, a sophomore studying biology and chemistry at Howard University, said the Career Explorations Program allowed him to engage with research efforts and scientific innovation.
“The experience was extremely impactful for me, and it gave me valuable insight and clarity as I continue to explore my future career path,” he said.
Beyond the programming, Orimoloye had the chance to network with others.
“I had the opportunity to connect with so many inspiring peers who are conducting impactful research, as well as researchers who are unrivaled in their field,” he said. “These conversations were just as meaningful as the sessions themselves. This experience deepened my understanding of translational cancer research and the role academic institutions play in advancing discovery.”
Rachael Bessey, a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University, first came to the UF Health Cancer Institute as part of the inaugural Career Explorations Program cohort in 2024. She later participated in the STRONGER summer cancer research internship and encouraged her lab group to apply to the 2026 Career Explorations Program.
“As president of the Biological Honors Society at my university, I wanted some of our members to experience the same opportunities UF gave me,” she said. “I wanted our members to see a true research lab and what a community filled with commitment to human welfare looks like. No other university has the heart like UF has.”
