Navi-gators undergraduate education program

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.

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.

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. We are currently completing applicant reviews for the Summer & Fall 2026 application cycle. We are expecting tours to resume in early April 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.