When attending a college fair at your high school, a convention center, community space, or other site, it is best to go in with a game plan to make the most of what can be an overwhelming event.

Contact us to schedule your complimentary consult!

Step 1: Make a list of the schools that you want to visit at the fair.

Look at the list of colleges that will be attending the fair, check off all of the schools that you are interested in, and then funnel down the best use of your time by dividing the schools into categories.

Make a list of which schools you would like to visit that is organized by:

  • “Definitely want to visit” (3-5 schools)
  • “Would be great to visit” (3-5 schools)
  • “Will visit if I have extra time” (rank in order of preference)

Step 2: Research the colleges that you would like to visit most, and have 1-3 questions prepared for each of those colleges.

Look at the college’s website and read about the programs that you are interested in. Try to craft one specific question that is unique to that college. Questions that give the college rep insight into your interests or achievements can be especially valuable. For example:

“Participating in my high school’s research program has been one of the most meaningful parts of my high school experience. What opportunities are available for first-year students to become involved in research within the Mechanical Engineering department?”

Here are some additional sample questions to get you started:

  • What type of student would thrive in your environment?
  • What are the most important characteristics you are looking for in applicants?
  • How would you describe the personality of the student body?
  • What percentage of students live on campus? What do students do on the weekend?
  • If you have a particular activity interest, ask about opportunities in that area.
  • Which academic programs are considered the strongest?
  • What opportunities are available to Double Major or Major/Minor?
  • How easy is it to switch majors?
  • What internship opportunities are available?
  • What research opportunities are available?
  • Is Study Abroad encouraged? What percentage of students participate? Does the college run its own Study Abroad programs or give credit for other colleges’ programs?
  • Are Honors Programs available? If so, what is included (e.g. merit scholarships, special classes, priority housing)? Must students initiate the application?
  • If you have a particular academic interest, ask about that field in terms of the department, related activities, and research and internship opportunities.
  • What kinds of scholarships do you offer and how do I apply for them? What are the deadlines?

Step 3: Put your best foot forward at the college fair!

Arrive on time or early, and dress for success. Wear business casual clothing, make eye contact, be polite, and smile. Be prepared to talk about yourself, including your academic and extracurricular interests. Try to be efficient with your time, and spend about five minutes or less talking with each admissions representative. Five minutes can be a long time! Bring a tote bag with you to take college materials that could be offered at the tables. Bring a pen to add your contact information to any lists at the tables, if offered.

Step 4: Ask college representatives at the fair for their contact information after you have spoken with them.

Put your plan into practice. Visit your top schools at the fair, ask your questions, and engage with the college reps. If they’re using StriveScan, don’t forget to scan your bar code, but if not, be sure to ask for their contact information/business card so that you can follow up after the fair. That day, take down notes about the colleges that you visited, while the information is still fresh in your mind.

Step 5: Follow-up with a thank you email

In the next day or two, send an email to any college representatives that you met with to thank them for their time and ask any follow-up questions, if needed. This is an important step towards demonstrating interest to colleges that you are most interested in. Read our blog post, for an in-depth discussion of what “demonstrated interest” means in the college process.

For more guidance, set up a complimentary consultation to learn about our admissions consulting services. Whatever your question, Collegiate Gateway is happy to help you navigate this exciting process!