HBCU TOUR
Summer 2026
July 2026 HBCU Tour Overview
This trip is exclusive to our Essence Ambassadors only.
The HBCU Tour 2026 is a multi-day educational and cultural college tour designed to expose students to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) along the East Coast. This immersive experience allows students to explore campuses, learn directly from admissions representatives, and experience college life while building confidence, independence, and motivation for higher education.
Students will travel as a supervised group, participate in official campus tours, engage in cultural experiences, and take part in structured reflection activities throughout the trip.
This tour is ideal for students who are beginning to think seriously about college and want firsthand exposure to HBCU academics, campus culture, and student life.
❋ Who Can Attend
This tour is open to students who meet the following eligibility requirements:
Rising 10th–12th graders
(Students must have completed at least 9th grade by June 2026)Minimum C average (2.0 GPA or higher)
Ability to follow group rules and expectations
Parent/guardian consent required
Students do not need to be committed to attending an HBCU to participate. This tour is about exposure, exploration, and informed decision-making.
❋ Fun & Enrichment Activities
The HBCU Tour 2026 intentionally blends college exposure with structured fun to keep students engaged, energized, and connected.
Planned activities may include:
Carowinds Amusement Park (full-day group experience)
Pool day for rest and bonding
Virginia Beach visit following Hampton University
Washington, DC museum visit tied to cultural and historical learning
All activities are supervised, age-appropriate, and purposefully scheduled to support student wellness, teamwork, and motivation while reinforcing the overall educational experience.
❋ Educational & Cultural Benefits
Students on the HBCU Tour 2026 will gain:
College readiness through campus tours and admissions insight
Academic inspiration across STEM, liberal arts, and career pathways
Cultural enrichment through HBCU history, landmarks, and museums
Personal growth through leadership, teamwork, and goal-setting activities
❋ Supervision & Safety
Experienced adult chaperones accompany students at all times
Structured schedules with clear expectations
Safety briefings, check-ins, and accountability protocols
Emergency contact and medical information collected in advance
What the Cost of the Trip Includes
One-way airfare (NYC area to Charlotte, NC)
Charter bus transportation for all scheduled tour activities and return travel
Lodging
Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Carowinds Amusement Park admission
Washington, DC museum visit
Official college campus tours and admissions presentations
Trip apparel: one polo shirt
Adult chaperone supervision at all times throughout the trip
Program materials and on-trip support
What the Cost of the Trip Does Not Include
The cost of the trip does not include:
Personal spending money (gift shop items, souvenirs, extras)
Additional snacks or treats outside of provided meals
Optional merchandise from colleges or attractions
Personal items (chargers, headphones, toiletries, etc.)
Lost or damaged personal belongings
Optional activities not listed in the official itinerary
Additional Essence Ambassadors Apparel