Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) has proudly maintained the title of the #1 Public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) for several years, yet the issue remains: does FAMU still deserve that position? Students and alumni have varying perspectives, but many continue to express strong pride and trust in FAMU’s capacity to provide an excellent educational and profound experience.
Alexis Rejoice, a recent graduate of FAMU, strongly believes the university still deserves its #1 ranking. “Although other HBCUs are competing closely with FAMU, I believe the university does still deserve its #1 title,” Rejoice said. “FAMU, despite major changes in education and funding that directly impact the school, has been able to give its students a quality of learning that can truly be used in their future careers.”
Rejoice acknowledges that improvements can be made , as with any university .The foundation FAMU has provided her has been invaluable. “As a recent graduate of FAMU, I can honestly say the education and experience I got at that school has helped me seamlessly navigate life post-grad.” This speaks to FAMU’s ability to prepare its students for the real world, not just academically but also professionally and socially.
Another FAMU Alumnus, Shari Ryant, agrees, noting the ambition and sense of community that FAMU promotes. “My FAMU experience was unforgettable because I met so many great people and had fun with everyone,” Ryant said. “I have friends all over the country because of FAMU. My favorite thing about the FAMU experience would also be how full of school spirit everyone was.”
Ryant credits FAMU’s alumni network and the determination of its graduates as proof of the university’s impact. “I think FAMU deserves the #1 title because when I look at the alumni, I see nothing but great things. You can tell that everyone was shaped to have a go-getter attitude. While there, I was surrounded by people who were so full of ambition, and it inspired me.”
She also points to the quality of instruction and preparation she received at FAMU. “FAMU has really great professors. Every single thing my professors taught me prepared me for my job today, and I feel so confident in my work because of it.” This shows FAMU’s reputation for giving students the information and abilities they need to succeed in their chosen fields once they graduate.
Current FAMU student Joshua Lyons, a third-year theater scholar, also speaks highly of his time at the university. “FAMU has been a place where I’ve been able to explore my passion and grow as a performer,” Lyons said. “The support from professors and my peers has given me the confidence to pursue my goals.”
Lyons addresses the friendly environment and pride that comes with being a Rattler. “There’s a certain energy on campus that pushes you to succeed. It’s motivating to know that you’re part of a legacy of greatness.”His story represents FAMU’s ongoing efforts to establish a supportive yet demanding atmosphere where students can flourish.
There is no denying FAMU’s long standing reputation for quality. The university has a long history of producing top-tier graduates who have succeeded in a variety of fields. It differs from
other HBCUs in its capacity to uphold robust academic programs while maintaining a welcoming and competitive environment.
To stay at the top, you have to keep getting better. For FAMU to maintain its top status, it will be essential to maintain competitive finances, infrastructure, and student resources. The administration of the institution must continue to prioritize responding to the changing needs of its student body and adjusting to developments in higher education.
It is evident from the experiences of both present and former students that FAMU continues to be a shining example of excellence in the HBCU community. The university’s influence on its students and alumni speaks for itself, even if there is always space for development . Academic precision, school pride, and a strong alumni network all contribute to FAMU’s and its rightful ranking as the top public HBCU.