Going to a college fair  . . . . .   

Tips for Making the Most of a College Fair:

  • Take along a pen and a small notebook. Also take a bag to carry the brochures you pick up.

  • Print out some address labels with your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, high school and year of graduation. Spend your time at the college fair asking questions not filling out contact cards.

  • When you arrive, check out the floor plan and find out where the tables of  your top choice colleges are located so you can go directly to them.

  • Write your most important questions down in advance so you don't forget.

  • Budget you time accordingly - School Information / Financial Information.

  • Jot down notes about  a college while your memory is fresh, such as right after visiting a table.

  • Pick up business cards of any representative you talk to, so you can contact them if you have more questions.
    •

What is a college fair?

A college fair is a gathering of college representatives.
It's your chance to pick up brochures and ask questions
about a variety of colleges, all in one place.
Fairs range in size, from smaller events at high schools
or community centers with representatives from just a few
institutions to fairs in large cities that feature hundreds of
colleges and universities.
In some cases, colleges are represented by full-time
admissions officers from the campuses, while other times
the tables are staffed by the colleges' alumni or current
students.
Some fairs also include information sessions on topics
like financial aid, as well as opportunities to talk with
experienced high school counselors who can advise you
on the college admissions process.

Before you go to the fair

Before you go to a college fair, think about what kind
of college would suit you best. The following questions
will help you get started.
Would you prefer a large university, a small college, or
something in between?
What type of setting would you like: city, suburban,
small town, rural?
Do you want to stay close to home or go some distance
away?
Are you looking for a college with a particular religious
affiliation?
What academic program(s) are of interest to you?
Are you interested in a specific degree program, such as nursing or engineering?
Do you want opportunities for study abroad?
Is it important to you to be involved in community service?
Do you want to participate in particular sports or extracurricular activities?
Are there special services that you might need from the college, such as tutoring?
This is also a good time to gather information from people and resources around you.
Talk to your counselor about your college plans.
Use resource materials at the guidance office or library and on the Web to research colleges. Talk to your parents, family and friends.