Florida Polytechnic University: Student Success Through Faculty Passion

why facluty possion at florida polytechnic university students

Florida Polytechnic University offers a variety of career opportunities for both students and alumni. The university provides equal employment opportunities for all faculty, staff, and applicants, including those with disabilities. Student workers are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week, and the university offers a range of positions, including research assistant, coordinator, and digital strategist roles. Florida Polytechnic University is committed to ensuring the success of its alumni even after graduation, with the Office of Career Development providing comprehensive career services. However, some reviews highlight concerns about the university's administration, including reports of managers treating staff poorly due to job insecurity.

Characteristics Values
Campus size 170 acres
Campus makeup A "ticking time bomb" for mental health issues
Campus mood Grim, with rock-bottom morale
Recent events Student suicide
Mental health staffing Meets state standard of 1 counselor per 1,000 to 1,500 students
Layoffs Yes, including the sole campus mental health counselor
Outsourcing Mental health services outsourced to BayCare Behavioral Health
Administration Accusations of toxic leadership, fear of job loss, and poor treatment of staff
Union activity Yes
Free speech Alleged violations of the First Amendment
University finances $5.9 million in debt

shunstudent

Student workers allowed only 20 hours of work a week

Florida Polytechnic University has limited student workers to 20 hours of work a week while classes are in session. During semester breaks and the summer term, students are allowed to work between 20 and 24 hours per week, with the possibility of increasing to 40 hours during the summer months. This policy is in place to ensure that students can focus on their academic studies while still having the opportunity to earn income during breaks.

Florida Polytechnic University prioritises affordability, ensuring that students have to work significantly fewer hours compared to the national average to pay for their tuition and fees. According to a report by My eLearning World, the average American college student must work 2,022 hours annually at minimum wage to afford a year of tuition and fees at a public university. In contrast, Florida Polytechnic University students only need to work 449 hours per year, or nine hours per week, to cover the same expenses. This equates to 77% less time spent working compared to the average American college student.

The low cost of tuition and fees at Florida Polytechnic University makes it the most affordable university in the country for the degrees and quality offered. The university's focus on affordability means that students can dedicate more time to their studies and have a reduced financial burden. This is especially beneficial for those pursuing demanding STEM degrees, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits without the added stress of extensive work hours or substantial loans.

To be eligible for student employment at Florida Polytechnic University, students must meet certain criteria. They are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher and have successfully completed nine credit hours or more in the previous semester with a GPA of 2.0 or better. Additionally, students must be enrolled at least half-time in an undergraduate or graduate program and provide proof of their eligibility to work in the United States.

By limiting student workers to 20 hours of work a week during term time, Florida Polytechnic University ensures that students can maintain a healthy balance between their academic commitments and part-time employment. This approach aligns with the university's commitment to providing affordable, high-quality education, enabling students to graduate with less debt and a strong foundation for their future careers.

shunstudent

Florida Poly's commitment to equal employment opportunities

Florida Polytechnic University (Florida Poly) is a diverse and inclusive institution committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all. The university embraces diversity and values the unique contributions of its employees and students. Florida Poly is dedicated to creating a workplace that fosters respect and equal treatment for everyone.

The university's commitment to equal employment opportunities is evident in its hiring practices and employment policies. Florida Poly welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and identities and ensures that all applicants and employees are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. This commitment to non-discrimination extends to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, and termination.

Florida Poly recognises the value of a diverse workforce and actively seeks to attract, retain, and promote individuals based on their qualifications, achievements, and abilities. The university provides equal opportunities for growth and advancement within the organisation, encouraging employees to reach their full potential. Florida Poly also ensures that employees are compensated fairly and equitably, regardless of their background or identity.

In addition to its commitment to equal employment opportunities, Florida Poly also prioritises the well-being and mental health of its students and employees. The university has faced challenges in the past, including layoffs, financial difficulties, and concerns about mental health services on campus. However, Florida Poly has taken steps to address these issues and improve the overall well-being of its community. The university has worked to supplement mental health care services and ensure that students have access to support.

Florida Poly is dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all. The university strives to foster an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and respected, contributing to a positive and productive workplace and educational experience. With its commitment to equal employment opportunities, Florida Poly aims to create a diverse and inclusive community that reflects the values of fairness, equality, and respect.

shunstudent

Florida Poly's background checks for prospective employees

Florida Polytechnic University (Florida Poly) performs background checks as a condition of employment for all prospective employees. While Florida Poly does not detail the specifics of its background checks, other universities in Florida provide some insight into what this process might entail.

The University of North Florida (UNF), for example, requires pre-employment Level 1 criminal background checks for all prospective employees, including student employees in designated positions of trust. This Level 1 screening includes employment history checks, a statewide criminal history check, and a check of the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. UNF also collects credit information for specified positions, which may include names and addresses of employers, credit and payment history, and other credit inquiries made on the individual.

Level 2 background checks, which include fingerprinting, are required for all employees and volunteers involved in UNF-sponsored summer camps and those in positions of trust. These checks are also necessary for current employees who are promoted or reassigned to a position of trust.

Similarly, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) requires pre-employment background checks for all new employees, including faculty, AMP, SP, adjunct, student, temporary, and volunteer workers. FAU's pre-employment screenings include criminal history and sexual offender history checks. Some departments at FAU requiring Level 2 background checks, as defined by the Jessica Lunsford Act, will implement their own investigations.

At Florida Poly, once a job offer is accepted, references and background checks are completed, and new hires come to campus to finalise HR documents and agree on a start date. While Florida Poly does not specify the scope of its background checks, it is committed to equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and offers Veterans' Preference to candidates for staff positions.

shunstudent

Florida Poly's Veterans' Preference for staff positions

Florida Polytechnic University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all its faculty, staff, and applicants. The university offers Veterans' Preference to candidates for all staff positions. This is in compliance with Chapter 295, Florida Statute, which states that the state and all political subdivisions of the state shall give preference in employment, promotions after deployment, and retention.

To be eligible for Veterans' Preference, an individual must be a disabled veteran who has served on active duty in any branch of the US Armed Forces, has received an honorable discharge, and has established the present existence of a service-connected disability that is compensable under public laws administered by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Alternatively, they must be receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or a pension by reason of public laws administered by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

To claim Veterans' Preference at Florida Polytechnic University, applicants must indicate their claim on the employment application and upload corresponding supporting documentation, including DD214 or military discharge papers.

Florida Polytechnic University is proud to assist veterans of the US Armed Forces and their family members with their transition into academic life. The university participates in many veterans' education benefits programs available through the Department of Veteran Affairs. The Office of Financial Aid and dedicated VA Certifying Officials are prepared to help in any way they can.

Florida Polytechnic University is not alone in its commitment to providing preference to US veterans in hiring, promotion, and retention for qualified positions. Other universities in Florida, such as the University of South Florida and Florida State University, also pledge to comply with Veterans' Preference guidelines when filling open positions.

shunstudent

Florida Poly's Advanced Mobility Institute (AMI)

Florida Polytechnic University is a public university in Lakeland, Florida, with a strong focus on STEM education. The university's Florida Poly's Advanced Mobility Institute (AMI) is a leading university-affiliated applied research centre for autonomous vehicle-related technology.

The AMI is committed to the application of STEM education in the economic development of the region. This includes the development of autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, which has the potential to significantly impact various industries in Florida, including agriculture, freight/logistics, planned communities, and public transportation.

The AMI has formed several partnerships to advance its research and development goals. One notable partnership is with the Florida Turnpike Enterprise, which operates the world-class AV test track called SunTrax. SunTrax is a state-of-the-art transportation technology testing facility that positions Florida as a leader in transportation technology. The AMI also collaborates with the Orlando Smart City initiative, providing open-road testing for autonomous vehicles in an urban environment.

The institute's location in a vital agricultural area is strategic, as it enables the continuous development of technology to enhance agricultural quality and reduce production costs. Additionally, the AMI plays a crucial role in public transportation, with pilot projects accelerating worldwide. One example is The Villages community in Florida, which has announced the upcoming launch of an autonomous taxi service.

Florida Poly's Advanced Mobility Institute is dedicated to keeping Florida at the forefront of transportation technology advancements. Through its partnerships and focus on STEM education, the institute is well-positioned to drive innovation and growth in various industries within the state.

Frequently asked questions

Florida Polytechnic University offers a culture of excellence and equal employment opportunities for all faculty and applicants. The university is committed to ensuring the success of its alumni even after graduation. The Office of Career Development provides comprehensive career services to students and alumni.

There are various job opportunities for students at Florida Polytechnic University, including student coordinator, research assistant, and ambassador.

Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. However, some students have expressed difficulty in making ends meet with the limited working hours.

The hiring process at Florida Polytechnic University typically involves a phone interview, followed by an on-campus interview. After receiving an offer, the candidate's references and background checks are completed, and they come to campus to finalise their HR documents and agree on a start date.

While some employees have praised the positive and supportive workplace culture, others have criticised the administration, citing instances of poor treatment of staff due to fear of job insecurity and toxic leadership.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment