Most historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) were established in former Southern slave states after the Civil War. These institutions lie at the intersection of academics, culture and tradition, with more than 100 nationwide.
Over nine days, a group of Pittsburgh-area high school students will visit 13 of these institutions spread across eight states. While the more than 100 students come from varying academic, social and economic backgrounds, all are quickly approaching graduation in the midst of contemplating potential college plans.
The Post-Gazette will document the reactions and growing perspectives of five of these students as they experience -- some for the first time -- a glimpse of the black college experience.
To follow the tour: Listen to five students' hopes for the tour by clicking on the button on each individual's profile picture. Explore visuals and stories from each stop by clicking on the info, photo and video under each college's name. Each college has a school profile and will be updated as the tour progresses.
Cheyney University, Cheyney, Pa. Credit: Thomas Ondrey for the Pittsburgh Press, 1985
