How to Get the Most Out of a College Fair

Going to a College Fair 

• Take a pen and a small notebook.  
• Take a bag to carry the brochures you pick up.  
• Print out some address labels with your name, address, phone number, email address, high school, and year of graduation. Spend your time at the college tables asking questions, not filling out contact cards! 
• When you arrive, check out the floor plan and find out where the tables for your top choice colleges are located so you can go directly to them.  
• Make note of your most important questions in advance so you don’t forget them.  
• Check on whether any information sessions, such as financial aid, are being offered. Interested? Budget your time accordingly.  
• Jot down notes about a college while your memory is fresh, such as right after visiting the table.  
• Pick up the business cards of any representatives you talk to, so you can contact them if you have any more questions. 

After you get home 

• Make a point of going through the materials and your notes within one week after the fair. You’ll probably remember more about your conversations with college representatives while the memories from the fair are still fresh.  
• Follow up with any college that interests you by contacting the admission office to ask further questions and, if possible, plan a visit to the campus.

For more help staying organized and making smart college choices, check out the College Advising Essentials guides.