One struggle many high school students face is determining which colleges are truly right for them – and there are a lot to choose from. To narrow your choices, and to learn more about schools that aren’t already on your radar, you might want to consider attending a college fair.

Why They’re Important for You


By giving you direct access to alumni and staff, college fairs can help you get a personalized view of whether a school is a good fit for you. They’re also helpful in that they often connect you with people responsible for reviewing applications.

How to Prepare for a College Fair



According to Andrew Duncan, Full Sail’s Director of Outreach, it’s imperative to be organized before attending a college fair.


“This allows prospective students to make the most of their time,” Andrew says. “Identify the career field you want to pursue, make a priority list of the top five most important items you are looking for in a college, and then research the participating colleges in advance.” 

Make a list of questions you’ll want to ask admissions representatives at booths or during Q&A sessions. It’s perfectly fine to ask about general information – like course offerings – but posing more personalized questions (that can’t easily be answered by a visit to a school’s website) will be the best use of your time.

What to Do While You’re There




Andrew encourages college fair attendees to ask strategic questions.


“Focus on engaging with representatives and gathering information that goes beyond what's available online,” he advises. “Tailor your questions to gain insights beyond basic facts.”

This means inquiring about unique academic programs, work-study opportunities, student support services, campus culture, and any features that set the school apart. Plus, make sure you find out what the next steps are in the application process, financial aid and scholarship opportunities, and any additional requirements each school may have.


It's also important to dress and conduct yourself professionally and to come prepared with supplies like notepads, pens, and a tote bag or backpack so you can take notes and collect marketing materials. If you think you may want to apply to a certain school, exchange contact information.

What to Do After Attending

If possible, stay in contact with the admissions representatives you spoke with. Send thank-you notes and express your interest in applying. Reach out with additional questions if necessary, and inquire about upcoming campus tours or information sessions.

“This proactive approach demonstrates genuine interest and can set the stage for a more personalized connection,” Andrew explains.