Navi-gators undergraduate education program

About the program

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 project management team to formalize the program, which has since seen around fifty active students participating.

The primary objective of the program is to enhance undergraduate student learning through a hands-on, experiential approach.

Key features of the prograM

Stage 1 Patient Greeting: First 100 hours

Stage 2 Patient Rooming: Students move to Stage 2 after first 100 volunteer hours. Students with a CNA certification start immediately at Stage 2.

Clinical, patient-facing volunteering

2-4 students per shift coordinate
with the nursing team. Students engage with patients and caregivers. Students conduct vitals and room patients.

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 Genetics Counselors
-Assisting ALS clinic
-Working with Fixel Institute project
managers
-Participating in special events

Develop support network with like-minded students

Unanticipated benefit has been students
creating close friendships. These friendships, rooted in academic excellence, support student work and
dreams.

Career Opportunities

Out of the ten students that moved on from the Fixel Navi-Gator program in 2023:
-Three transitioned to student or staff research roles at UF
-Three are working as employees at healthcare clinics while applying to medical school
-One has been accepted into medical school
-One is finalizing their choice of graduate school program.

Format of program

The program features a flexible structure, combining volunteer shifts with mentorship and networking opportunities to enhance students’ healthcare experience.

• Minimum Commitment: Participants are required to commit to at least two consecutive semesters, with many students choosing to engage for multiple years to gain deeper experience.
• Target Audience: The program primarily attracts undergraduate students interested in exploring careers in healthcare, providing them with valuable insights and networking opportunities.
• 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.
• Mentorship: The program fosters mentorship opportunities, allowing students to connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and career advice.
• Networking: Participants have the chance to build a professional network within the healthcare community, which can be beneficial for future career opportunities and recommendations.

Program Leader

Doug Jackson, M.Ed, PMP

Project Manager, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases

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. Please pay close attention to deadline dates for tour requests. We are now scheduling tours for students applying for Summer & Fall 2026 application cycle.

2. Apply to Become a Navigator – After completing a tour, you are eligible to fill out the Fixel Institute Navigators application form below.

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.