Tips for Attending College Fairs

Where can you find college admission representatives from schools far and wide all gathered in one spot?

College Fairs . . . of course !

If you are new to the college fair scene, you may be surprised to find rows of tables with signs (usually in alpha order) indicating the college being represented. Each table is staffed by representatives to answer your questions and take your name and address so they can send you materials after the fair. Because you will be asked to fill out interest cards, it is a good idea to take a page of self-addressed mailing labels with your name, mailing address and email address to put on the cards. That way you have more time to talk with the admissions reps. Research colleges before attending a fair so you can go directly to the table of the colleges of your choice. Show your initiative by talking to the college reps at the college fairs; they are often the ones who will review your application. A student who asks great questions at a college fair or when admissions reps visit your school is an admission rep's dream!

Suggested questions for college reps are:

How would you describe the personality of the student body?

Each college campus has a personality, revealed through its student body. Of course, not everyone on campus has exactly the same personality, but a student body tends to value certain qualities. For example, some campuses are politically liberal; some are conservative. A student body might especially value the arts or athletics or community service. This question helps you determine if you might fit in well among your potential classmates.
How is this school distinctive?

Each school has a unique story. In fact, most schools have many unique stories. Maybe you’ll learn about a newly developed internship program; maybe you’ll hear about an unusual curriculum or a special program for freshmen. Because college administrators can’t include every extraordinary opportunity in publications or on web sites, this question is one of the best ways to learn about them. (Hint: If the counselor mentions a program or opportunity that interests you, make a note to follow up with an e-mail or a phone call to get more information.
How many students transfer to another school during or after their first year?

This question offers a glimpse of how satisfied current students are. You obviously want to attend a school where your peers are generally happy. Sometimes a high transfer rate indicates that students aren’t finding what they thought they’d find at the school; sometimes a high transfer rate is related to a change in curriculum or financial aid. If the transfer rate is high, ask why and listen carefully to the response.
How would you describe students’ relationships with professors?

This question is better than “Who teaches undergrads?” Chances are, the admission counselor will answer this question by first telling you who teaches undergraduate courses—professors or graduate assistants. The counselor might also tell you about opportunities for students to collaborate with professors on research. Or maybe she’ll mention that professors give out their home phone numbers so students can reach them outside of class and office hours. You’ll have a general idea about how accessible the professors are—an important part of your college experience.
How do you award scholarships and financial aid?

Colleges and universities have widely different policies about scholarships. Some schools require separate applications for scholarships; some simply award scholarships based on information in a student’s application. A university might offer scholarships for specific academic programs or for artistic or athletic talent. You need to know not only how to apply for these awards, but also which qualities the scholarship committees weigh most heavily.

You also need to know how a college awards financial aid, which is based on your family’s need. Often, colleges and universities require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A college might have an institutional form you must complete as well.