The decision to attend UCF wasn’t just about academics for Adam Dobbrunz—it was a thoughtful choice shaped by family, proximity, and personal growth. A native of Hollywood, Florida, Dobbrunz found UCF to be the perfect middle ground: far enough from home to experience independence, yet close enough to return when needed.
Dobbrunz’s academic path, however, hasn’t followed a straight line. He began his college journey in electrical engineering, a rigorous field that, over time, didn’t quite align with his passions or preferred learning environment.
That changed when he transitioned into the College of Undergraduate Studies, choosing a focus in Leadership and Environmental Studies.
“I just wanted to try and get some project management experience before leaving university, and I figured that leadership would be a good way to go,” Dobbrunz said. “Everyone involved with the leadership major is compelled to help you individually strive for excellence.”
This desire for a challenge, paired with the opportunity to grow in a more supportive academic environment, made the Leadership program an ideal fit. After feeling disconnected in his previous major, Dobbrunz said the structure and community within Leadership not only reignited his motivation but also offered practical, real-world skills.
One professor in particular, Dr. Amanda Pacheco, made a lasting impression on Dobbrunz. He has taken nearly four classes with her and praises her engaging and versatile teaching style.
“I’ve had her (Pacheco) for three or almost four classes for my leadership major and she has been an excellent professor,” Dobbrunz said. “She’s been very personable, and she’s been very down to earth, and she always makes sure that her assignments are versed and different.”
Dobbrunz said her classes, including Leadership Theories & Concepts (LDR 4115) and its continuation Leadership Skills for the 21st Century (LDR 4130), stood out as some of his favorites throughout the program.
He is graduating on May 2 with a passion for infrastructure and community impact. Dobbrunz is searching for a career that combines technical knowledge with real-world engagement. With a focus on civil engineering and a strong desire to contribute to meaningful projects, he is looking ahead to roles that go beyond the traditional office setting.
“My goals are mostly trying to get to a position where I don’t need to be at a desk all day long, something where I can go and be a part either of my community or of a corporation, where I can represent them and have a little bit more responsibility,” Dobbrunz said. “I think that would be quite fun, especially if I could work either for the government or a civil engineering firm, where I can help plan and oversee civil projects or public works projects.”
As part of the Environmental Leadership track, Dobbrunz explored topics like sustainability, public administration, and nonprofit fundraising. He said he especially enjoyed the public administration course, which gave him a glimpse into the world of project management—his intended career path.
During his time at UCF, Dobbrunz earned the prestigious Gold Star Pegasus Scholarship, awarded to high-achieving students. Reflecting on his academic journey, he credits his UCF professors and the Leadership program with equipping him for the real world.
“The feedback and mentorship from professors have been more aligned with professional expectations than what I’ve seen in other programs,” Dobbrunz said. “I think I’m more prepared because of that.”