Attollo Heads South: Scholars Tour Top Colleges in North Carolina and Virginia

(July 19, 2025) — This past week, our scholars took over North Carolina in true Attollo fashion. We kicked things off with a special visit to Washington and Lee University, where scholars received a deep-dive campus tour and info session. It was an especially meaningful stop — Attollo staff member Tahri Philips, a proud W&L alum (‘23), welcomed the group to her alma mater and introduced students to the people who supported her throughout her college journey. Scholars had the chance to ask questions, explore the dining hall, and network with students, admissions counselors, and faculty.

We started day two at Duke University. The Gothic buildings were gorgeous, and the info session had students asking all the right questions. Scholars explored campus, grabbed lunch, and made a few stops at the bookstore for Duke merch. Next up: UNC-Chapel Hill. From the moment we stepped on campus, we were met with true Southern hospitality. We kicked things off with an info session featuring a panel led by a current student, who gave Attollo scholars an inside look at the Tar Heel experience. During the walking tour, we made a stop at the iconic Old Well — the same one featured on our college tour shirts! The best part of the UNC visit? A private stop at the Morehead-Cain Foundation, where scholars got a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most prestigious merit scholarships in the country.

Lake Johnson

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Lake Johnson 〰️

We wrapped the day outdoors at Lake Johnson, where students jumped right into kayaking and paddle boarding with no hesitation. For many of them, it was their very first time on the water, but you honestly couldn’t tell. They were naturals. Whether standing tall on a paddleboard or cruising in a kayak, everyone found their rhythm. There was laughter, splashing, and a few surprisingly smooth turns. The encouragement between students made the moment even better. No one sat this one out! Every single scholar got involved, pushed past comfort zones, and made memories they’ll be talking about long after the trip.

Day 3 we headed to North Carolina State University. The tour was student-led and packed with great conversation, and this campus definitely left an impression.

Afterward, we made our way to High Point University, where the resort vibes with its pristine landscaping and beautiful buildings.

That night’s Professional Development Dinner at Top of the Hill was one to remember. Over a three-course meal, our scholars met college students and young professionals from NC State, UNC, Gaston, and more. The conversations were smart, thoughtful, and fun, building connections and asking questions about life after high school.

We ended the tour with a visit to University of Virginia on Friday morning, complete with an info session and full campus tour. It was a full week. Full of campuses, conversations, connections, and a whole lot of growth. North Carolina showed out and our scholars did too

About Attollo:

Attollo is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering youth through education. By providing mentorship, academic enrichment, and college preparation support, Attollo aims to level the playing field and equip students with the tools they need to succeed in college and beyond. Since its inception, Attollo has helped thousands of students realize their potential and achieve their academic goals.