Half way between Tampa and Orlando is the newest member of the Florida State University System - Florida Polytechnic University. We arrived late afternoon on its newly created campus ... the rain storm overshadows the high tech building.
As Andrew (the oldest) reads from the brochure,
We are strategically located in Lakeland, FL, on the I-4 high-tech corridor. Our location is essential because we will focus on STEM programs, specifically technology and engineering.
When classes begin in August 2014, there will be two colleges offering six degrees (and 500+ students per the tour guide).
David the youngest remains loyal to Florida State.
We jumped into the extended golf cart for our tour.
The innovative design it eye catching. From its website (link),
The Innovation, Science and Technoloy (IST) Building, designed by renowned Spanish architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava, is a 160,000-square-foot white domed structure visible to motorists on Interstate 4 passing by Lakeland. The oval building has a distinctive louvered roof system and is surrounded by a ring of curved metal pergolas that shade its outer terrace and walkways.
The guide explained the classroom to us:
- the first row offers comfy seats for those students who arrive early;
- the next few rows offer tables for those student who arrive on time;
- the back row offers higher chairs (and tables) for those students who arrive late but still give them visibility of the "white board" that spans the entire front wall.
The futuristic design and color scheme reminded me of the Contemporary Hotel at Disney World.
The university was not yet open so it was quiet during our visit.
Florida Poly Tech certainly demonstrates the Sunshine State's commitment to STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
What are your thoughts on this unique university? One randomly selected commenter from this week's blogs wins a book choice from my convention stash. Comments are open through Saturday, August 16, 10 pm in Baltimore. I'll post the winner on Sunday, August 17.
Mahalo,
Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City
David stretches out in the Ikea-like lounger!
Love the pictures, and you always amaze me at how much you manage to find out. I had no idea that this university even existed!!
ReplyDeleteI really like it. I think STEM is really important.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a nice place to study. I like the roof.
ReplyDeleteThat's an impressive-looking university. Seems appropriate for a new, technical institution. I can't believe you're already looking at colleges with the boys! Time flies.
ReplyDeleteTo me, it is impressive, beautiful, and completely impersonal.
ReplyDeleteLooks nice
ReplyDeleteLove the seating set up in the classroom. Very unique!
ReplyDeleteLove the architecture of the building, I would have loved to have studied there.
ReplyDelete