FAMU to recruit thousands of students during Orlando’s Florida Classic

This weekend, the Florida A&M University (FAMU) community will make its way to Orlando, Florida to participate in the largest historically Black college or university (HBCU) football event in the nation – the Florida Blue Florida Classic.

Taking place on November 19 at Camping World Stadium, the Florida Classic is the annual rivalry between the FAMU Rattlers and the Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats. Since its inception, in 1978, the game has attracted more than 1.5 million spectators. The Florida Classic is a tradition that draws FAMU alumni and supporters from across the country.

Adding to that tradition is a special recruitment event designed to introduce students and their families to the FAMU programs that have led to its emergence as the No. 1 public HBCU in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Thousands of Florida’s best and brightest students, from nearly 30 area high schools and organizations, will gather at the Orange County Convention Center on Friday, Nov. 19 at 9:30 a.m., for a recruitment fair that includes a meet-and-greet with deans, alumni, and university and student leaders. The event will also showcase FAMU’s unique offerings and achievements.

Also taking place on Friday is the annual Florida Blue Battle of the Bands, featuring the world-famous Marching “100,” and the Annual Diversity Job Fair. Additional event information is available at www.floridaclassic.org.

“The atmosphere that the Florida Classic provides allows potential students and their families the opportunity to have a glimpse into the sense of community, purpose, and pride that HBCUs like FAMU provide its students,” said William Hudson Jr., vice president of Student Affairs. “Some of our most talented students have come from Central Florida and surrounding areas, and we look forward to meeting the next generation of academic superstars who will join the Rattler family.”

During the recruitment fair, students can participate in presentations about student life and the University’s 100 degree programs offered in its top-ranked 14 colleges and schools.

Scholarship information will also be a key draw at the event, as potential students will learn about the unique support programs FAMU offers its students – ranging from full and partial scholarships to a chance to live in one of its state-of-the-art living-learning communities. During past recruitment fairs, standout students have been offered scholarships on the spot.

“FAMU has not reached its capacity in providing opportunities for young people to fulfill their dreams through achieving a college education – and that is what this recruitment fair is all about,” said Interim President Larry Robinson. “The magic of the City of Orlando provides a perfect backdrop to showcase the rich legacy of FAMU and its life-changing programs to potential students.”