Christian Taylor

Becoming a part of the Gator Nation was never something I took lightly or for granted. I believe that the best and brightest seek to learn, train, and help build a community that is relentlessly striving for greatness. The swamps of Gainesville, FL are home to our future innovators, philosophers, champions, and pioneers. From the moment I stepped into my freshman dorm(August 2008), I knew this place was special. I was surrounded by the greatest athletes in the world, which pushed me to become a far greater athlete. Working alongside Coach Mike Holloway, one of the greatest coaches in collegiate history, I learned that his duty was not only to build me up as an athlete, but to create a scholar and a gentleman – someone who would go out into the world and make it a better place.

During my time at the University of Florida, our track team had a saying, "Finish the mission." This spirit extended beyond the track and into the classroom and in life. The underlying message is, whatever you start, seek to complete it to the best of your ability.

Through my world travels, global competitions, and various home transitions, I became incredibly grateful for UF Online. Thanks to this resource, I was able to complete my degree in the fall of 2019. To many, this might not seem like a significant achievement, but for me, it checked off several boxes: I finished the mission, I became part of the Gator Nation, and I never gave up, even when faced with different time zones, training recovery, and motivation challenges.

I hope my journey can be a source of motivation for anyone working through or towards something. Ignore the external voices and keep pushing. You have started it, and you have the strength to finish. Never underestimate the small steps, because they eventually lead to big changes.