CARE stands for the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement. The Florida State University CARE program provides preparation, orientation, and academic support for students who are the first in their family to attend college and may face challenges in college due to educational or economic circumstances. The CARE program was initially established in 1968 as Horizons Unlimited and in 2000, FSU combined Horizons Unlimited, Multicultural Student Support Services, Minority Academic Programs, College Achievement, Multicultural Student Affairs and the Summer Enrichment Program into one, creating the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement.

This year around 2,000 people applied and out of all of these applicants, senior Madison Ford was amongst the few accepted. Madison is an intelligent young woman that is very deserving of this achievement. I had the honor of sitting down and asking her some questions pertaining to the CARE program.

How does it feel to have been accepted into the CARE program?

“I feel as though I accomplished something big for myself and that all my hard work over the four years of high school has paid off.”

How did you hear about the CARE program?

“I heard about the CARE program through one of my friends. I was instantly intrigued and knew I had to apply.”

What are you looking forward to being in the CARE program?

“I am looking forward to meeting new people, working with advisors that will help me stay organized and on track throughout my college career, and the opportunities that I will be offered through the program.”

What other universities were you accepted into and why did you choose FSU over them?

“I was also accepted into the University of Central Florida and the University of Florida. I chose Florida State University over the other universities because the CARE program offers many opportunities such as internships, scholarships, help with job search and financial aid.”