by Brett E. Kennedy, Managing Director
College fairs have been a part of my life for 25 plus years. I have stood behind college fair tables is gymnasiums, shopping malls and yes (rather awkwardly) in a pew in a chapel. What are some tips to make the most of your college fair experience?
1. To save from having the write your information down on cards at each college, pre-print adhesive labels with your name, address, high school, mobile phone number, email address and high school graduation year. This step will save you a great deal of time and yes, you do want to share your information with the colleges. That way they can keep you informed about what is happening at the college.
2. Ask the representatives what makes their college distinctive. You are looking here for something about the college that stands out and defines their identity. As a follow up question, ask what matters to the students at that college. The answer might be sports or service or faith or politics. That can tell you a great deal about the college’s culture.
3. Another fun question to ask is what is the best thing and the worst thing about your college. Everywhere has things to brag about and everywhere has things that are not so perfect. Ask about the good and the bad at the college.
4. Have fun! Don’t be stressed. The college representatives are there to share about their colleges and appreciate high school students asking interesting questions. Look broadly at all the options at the college fair. You might discover something new and unexpected.
