Making the Most of College Fairs (Virtual & In-Person): Prep, Questions & Follow-Up
By Sarah H on Updated:
College fairs, whether huge bustling events in a convention center or online gatherings you attend from home, can be valuable parts of your college search. They offer a chance to gather information and interact directly with representatives from many different schools all in one place. But just showing up isn’t enough. These college fair tips cover preparation, smart questions to ask colleges, and effective follow-up to help you make the most of these college research events.
What Are College Fairs (and Why Go)?
College fairs bring together admissions representatives from various colleges and universities. Students and families can:
They are efficient ways to kickstart or supplement your college research.
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Before the Fair: Preparation is Key
Going in prepared makes a huge difference.
- Register (If Required): Many fairs, especially virtual ones, require pre-registration.
- Get a List of Attending Colleges: Know which schools will be there. Identify your “must-visit” booths or sessions.
- Do Initial Research: Look up basic information online about the schools you plan to target. Don’t waste fair time asking questions easily found on their website (like “What majors do you offer?”).
- Prepare Your Questions: Brainstorm specific questions you want to ask (see ideas below). Tailor some questions to specific schools.
- Prepare Your “Elevator Pitch” (Optional): Briefly know how to introduce yourself (Name, high school, year, academic interests).
- Virtual Fair Prep: Test your internet connection and the platform beforehand. Find a quiet space free from distractions. Have your questions typed out. Good virtual college fair preparation prevents technical glitches.
- In-Person Prep: Wear comfortable shoes! Consider bringing a bag for materials and maybe pre-printed labels with your name, contact info, high school, and interests to quickly give reps (instead of filling out info cards repeatedly).
During the Fair (In-Person): Making Connections
- Navigate Strategically: Visit your must-see schools first while you have energy. Don’t be afraid to browse less familiar tables too.
- Engage Politely: Wait your turn. Make eye contact. Introduce yourself briefly. Ask your prepared questions. Listen actively to the answers.
- Take Notes: Jot down key information or the name of the representative you spoke with.
- Collect Targeted Materials: Don’t grab every single brochure. Take materials only from schools that genuinely interest you.
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During the Fair (Virtual): Navigating Online Platforms
- Attend Live Sessions: Participate in information sessions or Q&As for schools you like. Use the chat feature to ask thoughtful questions.
- Visit Virtual Booths: Explore the resources provided (videos, links, documents).
- Chat with Reps: Use the chat function to ask your specific questions. Be patient if reps are busy. Keep messages concise and professional.
- Take Screenshots/Notes: Capture important information or contact details.
Smart Questions to Ask Colleges (Beyond the Brochure)
Ask questions that help you understand the experience and fit.
- What is a unique tradition or aspect of student life here?
- What kind of student thrives at your college?
- Can you tell me more about the [Specific Major/Program] department? (Research opportunities, class sizes, faculty interaction?)
- What opportunities are there for [Your Specific Interest – e.g., undergraduate research, study abroad, internships]?
- What kind of academic and career advising support is available?
- What do students typically do on weekends?
- (To current students if present): What’s your favorite thing about attending? What’s been the biggest challenge?
- What is the typical financial aid package like for students similar to me? (Use Net Price Calculator later for specifics).
- What makes your college different from [Similar College Name]?
Avoid asking questions easily found online (e.g., application deadlines, majors offered, campus size).
✨ Bonus: Use Cirkled In to keep track of your extracurriculars, volunteer hours, and awards so you’re ready for those application follow-ups.
After the Fair: Effective Follow-Up
Don’t let the information fade! This is what to do after college fair attendance:
- Organize Materials/Notes: Review the brochures and your notes while they’re fresh. Discard materials from schools you’re no longer interested in.
- Send Thank You Emails (Optional but Nice): If you had a particularly helpful conversation with a specific representative and got their contact info, send a brief, personalized thank-you email within a day or two. Remind them who you are and mention something specific you discussed. This also reinforces demonstrated interest.
- Do Deeper Research: Use the fair as a launching point. Explore the websites of schools that caught your interest more thoroughly.
- Update Your College List: Add or remove schools based on what you learned.
Final Thought: Fairs are for Fact-Finding and Connection
College fairs are excellent opportunities to gather information efficiently and make initial connections. Maximize their value with good preparation, thoughtful questions, and timely follow-up. Use these college fair tips to move beyond collecting free pens and truly advance your college search.
Need more tips on college applications, scholarships, or just how to survive this whole process? Cirkled In has your back—check out Cirkled In resources to help you through every step of your college journey!
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