I’ll never forget David’s reaction to attending his first college fair at Navy Pier in Chicago in his junior year. He visited colleges during his freshman year, but this was his first time attending such a mega event. There were so many people in attendance, so many colleges represented, it was quite overwhelming. He had certain schools in mind so he made his way through the meandering crowd and approached those first. After it was all over, we realized that we needed to have a strategy to get the most out of an event like that. How can you make the most out of your college fair attendance? The following tips can help you navigate the process.
- Research colleges that interest you ahead of time. Write down pertinent questions. Try not to ask questions that are found on their website. If you are looking for merit based scholarships, check the scholarship pages of the colleges to see if you fit their criteria for receiving a scholarship. I feel strongly that you should only apply to colleges that you know will award you a scholarship. If you do your homework you can know this info in advance. If you ask this question at the college fair be ready to share your test scores and GPA for merit based scholarships. Also, ask about other institutional scholarships you qualify for.
- If you have the opportunity to pre-register, do so. This will allow you to have a preprinted bar code to use if you want more info sent to you. It is also a good idea to prepare mailing labels ahead of time that include your email address. Admission representatives are there to provide information to you in the most expeditious manner. Instead of having to stop and write out the info on postcards, just stick a mailing label on it and keep moving.
- Check your high school or college fair website in advance for the listing of colleges in attendance. Make a list of your priority schools.
- Arrive early and take a family member with you.
- Upon entrance, get a map and plan your strategy as to how you will maneuver your way to the schools you are interested in. Once you have completed this task, feel free to browse other colleges or take in an information session on financial aid or scholarships.
- Dress appropriately, use proper language and ask questions about things that are important to you.
- Remember, you need to employ the same shopping skills to college selection as you would when shopping for anything else that is important to you. You are looking for the best academic and financial fit. Do not wait until the last minute. Good luck.
