College Fair Questions
College Fair Questions and General Guideline
While the next college fair won't be taking place until April, it's definitely not too early to begin gatheting information and exploring options. Whether you're wondering how to apply for scholarships and financial aid, where you'll decide to apply, or even how to get into the school you've loved since 7th grade, this page has something for you.
There are a few general guidelines that you should follow while at college fairs:
- When you introduce yourself, tell the representative whether you are a sophomore or a junior. This will be helpful to them in developing responses to your questions.
- Do not ask just one college representative and think that you have the answer. As with most of what we learn, there are differing views and experiences, so ask any given question to a number of representatives.
- Feel free to ask any question of any representative even if it does not seem to apply directly to their particular college. Many have worked for different colleges during their career and all are knowledgeable about college programs, admission and financial aid.
- Similar to item three, take advantage of the representatives who may not have the most juniors and seniors around their table. Engage them in intelligent conversation. Not only will you make their day, but they will remember you for it.
- Begin to pick up college viewbooks and brochures. Familiarize yourself with the terms associated with college admissions. For example, find out what the differences are between "Early Decision" and "Early Action." Find out what is most important in their application process and why. Don’t be shy to ask the questions that concern you.
There are several topics that you might want to know more about. These include, but aren't limited to:
- Student enrollment - Percentage of undergads/percentage of freshmen who graduate in four years
- Location and surroundings - Geographic region, distance from home, facilities, etc.
- College type and philosophy - Church, state, private control, traditional, experimental, deeply scholarly, carreer oriented, etc.
- Curriculum - Academic requirements, academic offerings, course descriptions, etc.
- Academic environment - Faculty, academic demands, intellectual vitality, etc.
- Campus and student life - Community Type (homogenous, pluralistic, cohesive, fragmented, etc.), campus activities, student diversity, residential life, etc.
- Admissions - Application requirements, deadlines, selectivity, testing, etc.
- Costs and financial aid - Minimum and maximum costs, family resources, percentage of students receiving aid, merit-based scholarships, etc.
If you're still a little confused on what type of questions you should ask, here's a list of ten basic questions to start you off:
- What would be the advantages and disadvantages of studying a "hard science" at a university or at a liberal arts college? What are the differences between a liberal arts college and a university?
- I have always wanted to be a _______. What are the avenues of study to reach that goal?
- I intend to major in _______. What are the best questions for me to ask, or factors to look for, to evaluate the strength or quality of this program at various campuses?
- If you (the rep) were looking at colleges now, what would you do differently in your search, and what would you focus on?
- How would you rate the importance of all different pieces of information that you get in an application?
- If there is something unique or special about the college being represented (like a single sex or religious affiliation): what does the representative see as its advantages?
- What is the focus of social life on campus? What do the admission representatives say about their institution’s fraternity/sorority life or about the sense of community on campus? Are race relations dynamic or strained?
- What kinds of visit programs are available at your school? When is the best time to visit?
- Ask if the representative attended the particular institution they are representing. Ask about their college experience.
- What types of financial assistance are available? How many students receive financial assistance and in what form (merit-based aid, need-based aid, self-help)?
Remember that this is only a basic list of questions. These, along with the suggestions, are by no means exhaustive. You should go over this list, adding and then using your own questions that meet your needs and curiosity. If you're still in need of some help, don't hesitate to ask your counselors or pay a visit to the CAC.