Navi-gators undergraduate education program

About

Originally centered primarily on clinic volunteering, the program has evolved to reflect the broader work of the Fixel Institute. Today, Navi-Gators may contribute not only to patient-facing clinic support, but also to research institute initiatives, project-based work, and special programs that help advance the institute’s mission.

The program maintains a competitive application process, and over one hundred students have benefited from the Navi-Gators program.

“Volunteering through the Fixel Navi-Gator program has been one of the most enjoyable experiences I have had at UF. The construction of the program – rotating through different departments of the institute – has kept the pace exciting and the learning experience rigorous. The diversity of patient and provider populations in the institute has given me bountiful learning opportunities and expanded my understanding of what impactful healthcare looks like. The opportunity to shadow the providers alongside regular volunteering duties has given me the incentive to reach out and make deeper, professional connections amidst my time at the Fixel. I would recommend this program and the institute to anyone looking to get involved.” –Ryan Gamberino

Why the program is unique

Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Fixel Institute, Michael Okun, MD, laid the groundwork for the program in the early 2000s. In 2022, Dr. Okun directed the Fixel Institute Project Manager Doug Jackson to formalize the program.

Navi-Gators is designed for students who want more than a traditional volunteer experience. The program provides meaningful exposure to both the clinical and operational sides of an academic neurological institute.

Students have the options of gaining firsthand experience in a specialty healthcare environment while also learning how projects, programs, and interdisciplinary teams work together to support patient care, research, and institutional goals. This broader model gives participants a more complete understanding of careers in healthcare, medicine, research, and related fields.

Key features of the prograM

Track 1: Clinical Support Prioritization: Currently focused on administrative functions. Expecting to have patient engagement added to activities in Summer 2026.

Track 2: Institute Project Support Prioritization: See and be involved on the ‘behind the scenes’ work that supports the institute.

Track 3: Clinical Support/ Institute Project Support (Blend) Prioritization: Experience both the clinical and administrative work for a transformative, holistic view of a cutting-edge medical research institute. Opportunities include clinical exposure, project-based work, and operational experience while advancing the mission and effectiveness of the Fixel Institute.

Clinical Experience

Students may assist with tasks such as patient greeting, navigation, rooming support, and workflow-related activities.

Physician Shadowing

For every twenty hours volunteered, students have the opportunity for physician shadowing (typically neurologists or neurosurgeons).
Program manager coordinates shadowing schedule between students and physicians.
While some students actively shadow, the majority focus on the experiential, learn-by-doing, volunteering work.

Opportunity for niche experiences

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the Fixel Institute, students have opportunities for niche learning and experiences including:
-Data Lab
-Assisting ALS clinic
-Working with Fixel Institute project
managers
-Participating in special events

Professional Development and Networking

Navi-Gators is intended to help students grow not only in experience, but also in maturity and professional readiness. Through the program, students develop skills in communication, reliability, teamwork, service, and workplace professionalism.

For many participants, the program serves as an important foundation for future academic, clinical, and professional opportunities.

Research Institute Project Support

Students may have opportunities to assist with operational, planning, event-related, or project-based work that contributes to the mission of the Fixel Institute.

program Format and Expectations

The Navi-Gators program is designed to be a meaningful, longitudinal experience rather than a short-term observational opportunity.

Participants are expected to:

• Commit to at least two semesters: Participants are required to commit to at least two consecutive semesters, with many students choosing to engage for multiple years to gain deeper experience.
• Maintain a minimum of 80% attendance each semester: Serve consistently in recurring weekly shifts
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and strong communication
• Contribute positively to both clinic and institute needs

Program Format:

• Volunteering Hours: Students are expected to dedicate approximately six hours per week to volunteering, ensuring a meaningful contribution while balancing academic responsibilities.
• Shift Structure: Participants typically sign up for two 3-hour shifts each week, allowing for flexibility in scheduling and consistent involvement in the program.
• Observational Opportunities: For every twenty hours of volunteering completed, students earn the chance to observe a healthcare provider or clinic for half a day, offering practical exposure to the healthcare environment.

Student Leadership Team

2026-2027 Student Leadership Team

Student Executive Board, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases

Student Executive Director

Hannah Ciupe

Student Director of Operations

Katie Mock

Team Members:
Diya Behal – Scheduling/Attendance
Kayleen Siason – Tour Guide Coordinator
Youssef Isshak – Special Events

Student Director of Application Selection

Ambrose Carbunar

Student Director of Student Experience

Ben Bloom

Team Members:
Brandon Huynh – Clinic Onboarding
Jessica Vargo – PM Onboarding
Tara Fenelon – Alumni Relationships

Student Director of Programs

Aarushi Pant

Team Members:
Samuel Ginsberg – Clinic
David Starr – Research
Jessica Vargo – PM

How to apply

There are three steps you will need to complete in the application process.

1. Explore the Fixel Institute – Take a guided tour of our campus with a current student leader. We are currently accepting applications for the Spring 2027 cycle. We are expecting tours to resume in early October 2026.

2. Apply to Become a Navigator – After completing a tour, you are eligible to fill out the Fixel Institute Navigators application form below. Next available admissions cycle would be for Spring 2027.

3. Important Notice: If you are selected for the Navigator program, you will still be required to complete the University of Florida volunteer approval process. If selected, we will guide you through this process.

**A note on the program admissions and acceptance timeline for Spring 2027: The Navi-Gator program uses a fixed application deadline rather than rolling admissions. For the Spring 2027 cycle, applications will be accepted through September 30, 2026. After the deadline, all applications will be compiled and reviewed by our student review committee over the following several weeks. Typically, approximately 25% of applicants are invited to interview. Final decisions are expected in late October.