There is no doubt that College Fairs are an excellent resource for students and parents as they
prepare to embark on the college selection process in earnest. reasons why attending a College Fair is
not only a good idea, but a must nowadays.

1. In-person research
College fairs are an excellent opportunity to do some in-person research. You will get immediate
feedback to your questions and the schools will start “to come alive” for you as you talk with the
admission and/or alumni reps at each booth.

2. Save money
Assuming you have a fair amount of schools already on your radar, it is too expensive to visit all of
the colleges and universities you are considering. College Fairs give you the opportunity to visit a large
number of schools all under one roof.

3. Explore new options
You may discover a new college(s) that isn’t on your radar until now.

4. Free advice
Admission representatives are often referred to as admission counselors; go ahead – ask them any
question you may have. Perhaps you are wondering if you should take AP Psych next year or another
year of science instead. Ask them their opinion.

5. Narrow your list of possible options
You will be able to identify which schools you are likely to make the commitment to go visit in person
and which ones you may end up deleting from consideration.

6. Demonstrate Interest
Colleges want to know that they are wanted. Most keep track of student contact – attendance at high
school visit sessions, College Fairs, and campus visits are all key contacts to make that will show the
colleges you are serious about wanting to attend.

7. Find out about summer programs/opportunities
Many colleges now offer pre-college summer programs and experiences on their campus. They will
have information at their booths about these programs.

8. Attend special information sessions
Sometimes a College Fair will feature an info session on a specialized topic like Financial Aid or Athlete
Recruitment.

9. Practice your interview skills
Talking to college admission reps will help you when it comes time to interview. You will need to think
of what questions you want to ask and then think “quick on your feet” to any questions asked of you
in return.

10. Great preparation for the campus visit
If you can survive the College Fair – which is loud and somewhat overwhelming – the campus visit