University of Florida - Tower Yearbook / Seminole Yearbook

“college town The University of Florida sits in the town of Gainesville, located about halfway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. With a population of more than 80,000, Gainesville served students as a home away from home while they earned degrees. Some students came from small towns surrounding Gainesville while others moved from larger metropolitan areas. Jessica Long, 3 LS, came from Cape Coral, Fl. two years ago and found that the community rallied around the university. " I really like how the town is supportive of the college, " she said. Northerners found their way to UF too. Students came from all over, even as far away as New England. Stephen Burkowski, 3 JM, of Westfield, N.J., says Gainesville was smaller and closer nit because the university is the nucleus of the town. Gainesville also off ers students state parks, a botani- cal garden and several lakes. Numerous bars and restau- rants were scattered around the town. Even thought A group of friends enjoy lunch at there weren ' t many neon signs, if you just looked there Cafe Gardens, one of the popular businesses along University Avenue. was always something to do. Outdoor cafes and quiet spots helped students to escape a busy day for a few hours. A shriner and community member takes part in the annual Homecoming parade in October. Residents as well as students marched or made floats for the parade which began at the O ' Connell Center and stretched to Main Street. The UF Plaza houses a number of restaurants and services such as Apartment Hunters. Students freq uently visited shops along University Avenue to buy gator clothing, food or music, among other things. Opening/ 5 ”