In a world where we can explore schools and find answers to many college admissions questions with a few clicks, many families wonder if attending a college fair is still a worthwhile part of the college research process. For many students, attending a college fair is worth it, but there are several things that you should consider before you go to ensure that you make the most of your college fair experience.
Why College Fairs Are Worth Your Time
While spending your Saturday morning in a busy hall with hundreds of students and college representatives may not be at the top of your list, there are many advantages to attending a college fair. College fairs allow students to:
- Connect with Favorite Schools (and Discover New Ones): College fairs let you gather information about schools you’re already interested in without traveling to multiple campuses. Plus, you might discover schools that weren’t on your radar but could be great matches!
- Ask Anything – Direct Access to Admissions Representatives: Admissions reps are here to talk to you and answer your questions. College fairs are your opportunity to ask questions about programs, campus culture, and student life that you can’t always get from websites or brochures. Sometimes, college alumni will also be available to answer questions and can provide a window into their student experience.
- Demonstrate interest: Some schools consider Demonstrated Interest (or ways that you have shown the school you are likely to attend if admitted) in the admissions process. Attending a college fair and having genuine and insightful conversations with your admissions representatives can be a great way to demonstrate your interest. Be sure to scan or sign in at the schools’ booths so they can follow up after the fair.
Strategies for College Fair Success
College fairs can feel overwhelming, and preparation can make a big difference. Whether attending in-person or virtually, these tips will help you get the most out of your college fair experience:
- Make a Plan & Prioritize Your “Must-See” Schools: Before attending, review the list of participating colleges and create a game plan. College fairs can be overwhelming, so visit your top choices first to ensure you don’t miss them.
- Prepare Thoughtful Questions: For schools you’re particularly interested in, develop specific questions that demonstrate your research and genuine interest. Ask about things that aren’t easily found on their websites.
- Remain Open to New Possibilities: While focusing on your favorites is important, leave some time to explore other institutions. You may find new schools to add to your list!
- Take Notes: Bring a bag for materials and something to take notes with. When you visit many colleges in a short period, the conversations can blend together. Be sure to take a few moments to jot down notes between booths.
- Scan Your Badge: Many in-person fairs will issue attendees a badge with a unique QR code. When students visit a college’s booth, the representative can ask to scan their badge. After the fair, colleges receive contact information for the students who “scanned in” at their booths. This allows them to track your interest and follow up with more details. No scanners? Many colleges will have a paper or tablet sign-in sheet where you can enter your name and email address to request more information.
- Establish Connections: If you have a particularly good conversation with a representative, ask for their contact information for follow-up questions. After the fair, drop them a quick note to thank them for their time.
- Bring a Buddy (but don’t stay glued to them): Arriving at a fair with a friend can be a great way to make the event feel less overwhelming, and comparing notes after the event allows you to explore schools that you didn’t have time to visit. Your friend might also ask great questions you didn’t think of. You might consider visiting schools that you are less interested in together first, to practice talking with reps. Then split up to see the schools on your respective lists and meet later to compare notes.
Tips for Virtual Fairs
Virtual fairs offer convenience, but also require a bit of preparation:
- Register Early: Sign up in advance and familiarize yourself with the platform so you don’t waste time with technical difficulties at the event.
- Attend Live Sessions: There will be many choices – prioritize presentations from your top-choice schools.
- Ask questions: Use the chat function to ask your prepared questions. Read through others’ questions as well. You may find new questions you want to ask representatives at other schools.
- Cover More Ground: Take advantage of the digital format to visit more virtual booths than you might manage in person.
- Follow Up: Send a brief thank-you email to school representatives
Exploring college booths and connecting with admissions representatives isn’t just about collecting facts—it’s about discovering colleges that might be a good fit for you. So, worry less about impressing the admissions reps (remember, they want to impress you too!) and approach college fairs with curiosity – bring your questions, your personality, and yes, even your uncertainties. Mark your calendar, register to attend, do your research, prepare your questions, and, most importantly, have fun!
