SF2UF: The Bridges to the Baccalaureate partnership between Santa Fe College and the University of Florida

University Of Florida, Gainesville FL

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Abstract

Santa Fe College (SF) and the University of Florida (UF) propose to continue the SF2UF program, a partnership strategically designed to expand the pool of students who transfer from SF to UF, earn baccalaureate degrees, and pursue advanced careers in biomedical and behavioral sciences. The program will target high-performing students who demonstrate the greatest potential for innovation, excellence, and persistence in biomedical and behavioral research. Recruiting and mentoring these individuals not only sustains the nation’s global leadership in biomedical science but also strengthens our capacity to address pressing health challenges that impact the US population. The SF2UF program is grounded in evidence that the first two years of college are pivotal for attracting and retaining top science students, that early and sustained mentored research engagement supports achievement and persistence, and that addressing mental health and wellness is essential for undergraduate transfer student success. As of 2025, the program has recruited 41 trainees since its start in 2016, of whom 40 (98%) transferred to UF (37), another research university (1), an applied BAS program at SFC (1), or are still enrolled at SF (1). 35 SF2UF trainees (85%) completed a bachelor’s degree (27) or are still enrolled in a BS program (8). Of those who graduated, 20 (74%) have continued to graduate or professional programs or to biomedical careers: 7 to PhD programs, 4 to professional doctoral programs (2 DO, 1 DVM, 1 JD), 4 to other graduate programs (1 MPH, 3 MS), and 6 directly to the biomedical/behavioral workforce. The continuing SF2UF program’s goals include: increase by 25% the number of SF freshmen considering research careers; maintain support for continuing program trainees and recruit two additional trainees; achieve a 100% transfer rate to four-year institutions; retain at least 90% of trainees for the entire program, graduating at least 90% with a BS within four years; and ensure at least 75% pursue post-baccalaureate training, with at least 60% entering PhD programs within two years of graduation. Through innovative curricula, research mentoring, and tailored career development, SF2UF prepares resilient, high-performing students to become leaders in the biomedical sciences and contribute to improved health outcomes for the US population.