Living in Tampa is one of the biggest perks of being a USF student-athlete. The city is vibrant, energetic, and full of life—there’s never a shortage of things to do, places to explore, or food to try. Here’s what I love most:

Exploring the City

• Whether it’s shopping in Hyde Park Village or strolling through International Plaza (aka one of the best malls ever), Tampa has the perfect mix of laid-back and upscale

• Farmers markets, especially the monthly Hyde Park Market, have become a favorite weekend tradition

Live Events & Entertainment

• I’ve been lucky enough to attend events at the iconic Amalie Arena—including a SZA concert and tons of games: basketball, volleyball, hockey, and even a UFC Event (where I got to meet Dana White, the head of the UFC)

• The arena is one of the best venues in the country, and being in a city that attracts world-class talent and competition is such a bonus

Beach Days & Sunshine

• I’m definitely a Florida girl at heart, and being close to the beach is something I’ll never take for granted

• From beach lax to spontaneous sunset trips, nothing beats recharging by the water and soaking in the sunshine

Coffee Shops & Study Spots

• I love finding local coffee shops to get schoolwork done—it makes me feel productive (even if I’m just sipping an iced latte)

• These cozy spots are where I get most of my off-field thinking done

Dining Out with Friends

• If I’m not with the majority of my teammates, I’m probably out with Tags and Zim trying new restaurants

• Tampa’s food scene is elite, and we’ve made it a mission to find the best eats in town—especially the fancy spots

Why It Matters

• Tampa offers the perfect balance of big-city opportunity and everyday fun

• Living here makes college feel like more than just school—it’s a full lifestyle, and one I’ve truly grown in both personally and professionally