GAINESVILLE, FL (EEF News) — For Education Equalizer Foundation (EEF) scholars, a visit to Florida A&M University (FAMU) brought their college plans into clearer focus. On September 26, 2026, EEF’s Preview Day tour group traveled to Tallahassee to explore campus, discover academic opportunities, and experience life at a historically Black college and university (HBCU). For one scholar, the experience inspired him to apply the very next day.
Exploring Campus and Academic Opportunities
Scholars visited the Eternal Flame and historic campus buildings, learning about the traditions and legacy that shape the FAMU experience. Walking through campus gave students a chance to picture themselves as future Rattlers and consider what attending the university could mean for them.
At tables hosted by academic departments, admissions, financial aid, and student organizations, scholars spoke with representatives and asked questions about their interests. These conversations helped students connect potential majors with their career goals while learning more about applying to FAMU and paying for college.
For EEF scholar Josiah Hurst, visiting the architecture program’s table helped reinforce his interest in the university.
“This being my second FAMU tour with EEF, it’s just adding on and making me more confident in my decision on going to FAMU,” Hurst shared. “Going to the architecture program table (what I want to major in) and seeing that they have a very strong program makes my decision easier.”
Experiencing Life as a Rattler
The visit also included student housing, giving scholars a closer look at where they could live and the resources available to campus residents. Throughout the day, students explored opportunities to get involved and experienced the sense of community that extends beyond the classroom.
At lunch, former EEF scholars who now attend FAMU joined the group and shared their perspectives as current college students. Their presence gave visiting scholars a meaningful connection to campus: students who had once participated in EEF were now navigating the college experience themselves.
A Visit That Inspired the Next Step
For scholar Marqez Johnson, experiencing FAMU firsthand strengthened his interest in attending and prompted him to take action.
“My experience on the FAMU tour was amazing. I got to experience and see the culture firsthand, which has increased the chance of me attending the school,” Johnson said. “It encouraged me to apply the day after. I thank EEF for presenting this opportunity for us scholars.”
Parents also valued the opportunity to explore campus alongside their students.
“I absolutely enjoyed myself. It felt like home all over again,” said parent Stephanie Francis. “I loved the itinerary that we had. It was just a really good time, so I would definitely highly recommend [this trip] for all future FAMU Rattlers!”
Through campus visits like this one, EEF helps scholars move from researching colleges to imagining—and preparing for—their own college experience. At FAMU, students explored their interests, connected with current students, and left with a clearer sense of what their next chapter could look like.
Thank you to the following organizations for sponsoring The Education Equalizer Foundation.
The Wagmore Foundation
Curtis and Tova Peterson
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