One University of Florida alum has taken his love for "Gator Nation" all the way to the "Big Apple." On his latest visit to Gainesville he made sure to wouldn't be coming alone.

A group of students from Roberto Clemente Middle School in Harlem left behind the Empire State to set foot in "Gator Nation." Their math teacher, Keith Robinson, graduated from the University of Florida.

Three years ago he started teaching and quickly turned his students into die-hard Gator fans. Robinson said he wanted the kids to see UF for themselves and started planning a trip. In order to pay for the visit, Robinson and his students raised nearly $20,000.

"To see it actually happening is a completely surreal experience," said Robinson. "And to see the looks on their faces, it's just been absolutely unreal."

20 middle schoolers were selected based on their grades, attendance, and behavior. Their tour includes stops at a number of colleges and encourage the kids to want to attend and graduate from college. Their last day in Gainesville will be Wednesday. Plans include lunch with UF president Bernie Machen and watching the gators spring football practice.