It seems everyone has been hyper-focused on seniors and the college admissions process. Now it’s time for the juniors to get engaged and recognize that they are now the ones everyone will be asking… “Where are you applying to college?”,”What are you going to major in?”, and even more personal questions. For students who haven’t finalized their college list yet, those who are not yet committed to a college major, and those who have never stepped foot on a college campus, attending a College Fair is a great first step.

College fairs can feel overwhelming: rows of tables, long lines, glossy brochures, and rapid-fire pitches. But for students, a college fair can be one of the most efficient ways to explore options, build confidence, and start meaningful relationships. But, you need A PLAN!

A college fair is not about picking your dream school on the spot. It is about:

• Learning how to talk about yourself as a student
• Discovering colleges you hadn’t considered
• Gathering intel, you won’t always find online
• Demonstrating early interest

Before the Fair: Preparation Is Everything

Do This Before You Walk In

1. Research (lightly, not obsessively)
   Students should identify 5–10 colleges they’re curious about.                                                                                                            Look up: Size and location, Academic strengths, or intended majors, and Admissions selectivity

Parents: This is a great moment to discuss preferences without pressure.

2. Create a short “student intro”
   Students should practice a 15–20 second introduction, such as:

“Hi, I’m a junior from Charlotte. I’m interested in biology and environmental studies, and I’m starting to explore medium-sized schools in the Southeast.” With a brief intro like that, you’ve set the tone, and the Admissions Rep is going to take you much more seriously. This alone dramatically changes the quality of the interaction.

3. Prepare smart questions
   Avoid questions answered on the website. Better options:

• “What types of students thrive on your campus?”
• “How do students typically discover or get involved in research/internships?”
• “What’s something students are surprised by once they enroll?”
• “How do you evaluate applications holistically?”

4. Bring the right tools

• A small notebook or notes app
• A tote bag (brochures add up fast)
• A charged phone (QR codes are everywhere)
• Comfortable shoes (seriously)

At the Fair: Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

Plan ahead. Go to the College Fair website and get a map of how the schools will be laid out at the Fair. Identify each of the schools are of the greatest interest to you. These are the key booths where you will want to stop and introduce yourself. Do those first. Then explore other schools.

Take in the workshops – this is a great opportunity to divide and conquer, where parents can attend sessions on Financial Aid, and students can meet and greet colleges.

Students should do the talking- Admissions reps want to meet the student. Parents should hang back unless invited in.

Ask follow-up questions – If a rep mentions something interesting, dig deeper—it shows genuine curiosity.

Take notes immediately. Write down:

• The rep’s name – request a business card for the representative who handles your high school.
• What stood out
• How the school felt

Don’ts

Don’t collect brochures like souvenirs. If a table didn’t spark interest, skip the materials. Less paper, more intention.

Don’t ask about your chances of admission. This puts reps in an awkward position and rarely yields useful information.

Don’t let parents dominate the conversation. It sends the wrong signal and deprives students of valuable practice.

Don’t try to see every school. Depth beats breadth. Ten thoughtful conversations are better than thirty rushed ones.

College fairs are less about information and more about confidence-building. Students learn how to introduce themselves, ask thoughtful questions, and engage with adults who will one day read their applications. That growth alone makes the experience worthwhile.

Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte. Send questions to: lee@bierercollegeconsulting.com; www.bierercollegeconsulting.com