We are thrilled to share the highlights from MaaQef’s recent college tour at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It was a day that exceeded all expectations and left a lasting impression on every student who attended.
A Turnout That Speaks Volumes
What was planned as a tour for up to 25 students quickly grew into something bigger. A total of 33 students showed up, eager and enthusiastic, reflecting the deep desire within our community for opportunities that open doors to higher education. The energy was palpable from the moment the group gathered, with parents and MaaQef Board members arriving at the church to offer encouragement and support before the trip.
Exploring the Tar Heel Campus
From the moment students set foot on campus, the day was filled with discovery. The group was led by Ebba Fekadu Moreda, an exceptionally disciplined and responsible young man who guided the tour for about one and a half hours with patience and enthusiasm. Students got a firsthand look at what college life looks and feels like.
A Landmark Moment
No visit to UNC is complete without a stop at the iconic Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower. Students gathered at the base of the tower for photos and a moment to take in the beauty of the campus, a memory they won’t soon forget.
Inside the Lab: A Window into STEM Careers
One of the highlights of the day was a visit to the Medical Genetics Building, where Dr. Dan Crona, a UNC staff member, provided an outstanding lab tour. Despite the large number of students, Dr. Crona organized them into two groups and delivered engaging presentations on his research and the work happening inside the lab. The visit concluded with a Q&A session where he offered valuable advice on future careers in science and medicine, sparking inspiration in many young minds.
Gratitude and Recognition
This tour would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of so many people. We would like to extend special thanks to:
- Ebba Fekadu Moreda for leading the campus tour with maturity and enthusiasm far beyond his years.
- Dr. Dan Crona for opening the doors of his lab and giving our students a glimpse into the world of medical genetics research.
- Dr. Benyam Muluneh, the key organizer of this tour, who coordinated with Ebba and Dr. Crona and made the entire event possible through his dedicated efforts.
- Drs. Mimi and Benyam Muluneh for generously sponsoring lunch for all 33 students.
We should also appreciate Ato Fisseha Worku, MaaQef’s secretary, for sponsoring lunch for all the adults out of his own pocket. His quiet generosity is a true reflection of the community spirit that makes MaaQef special.
We also deeply appreciate the parents who participated in the carpool and served as chaperones, and the MaaQef Board members who showed up to support both the students and the organizers.
Looking Ahead
Throughout the entire tour, our students were disciplined, attentive, and respectful, a reflection of the values that MaaQef strives to instill in every young person we serve. The outstanding cooperation shown by both students and parents made the day smooth, organized, and truly successful.
We are optimistic that future college tours will continue to be just as well organized and impactful. And we are excited to announce that next up, we will be traveling to Duke University and NC State. With those two visits, MaaQef will have covered the three most prominent universities in the Triangle area, giving our students a comprehensive look at the incredible higher education opportunities right here in their backyard. We can’t wait!
Programs like these are at the heart of MaaQef’s mission: empowering youth with the exposure, knowledge, and confidence they need to pursue higher education and build bright futures.
Your continued support of MaaQef is essential and greatly appreciated. Together, we are opening doors, one campus visit at a time.
Visit maaqef.org or reach out to us at admin@maaqef.org
