What to do at a University Fair

If you’re planning to take post-secondary programs after high school graduation, start early with your program research and planning.

That means..… think about it in Grades 9 & 10!

Do your research and campus tours starting in Grades 10 & 11!

(And don't worry if you're already in Grade 12 and haven't done a thing -- read on to get the scoop....)

Take the stress and unknown out of the next phase of your educational journey, and just start thinking about the possibilities. 

Have fun with it! 

This is a very exciting time in your life!

By Grades 11 & 12, attending a College / University Fair is a must. 

What you need to do:

Step one: start with the internet. Do searches for programs of interest, and check out school websites. See what programs out there make sense to you, and catch your attention!

And then find out more information, in person, at a Fair.

Here’s the “HOW TO” for attending University or College Fairs this fall, so you can learn lots — and hopefully make a positive impression on school representatives.

1. Read about the fair online. Which schools will be there? What’s the floor plan? 

2. Are there separate meeting spaces with school presentations planned? If so, what’s the schedule? Plan your time at the fair, so you can connect with representatives and learn about your top choices.

3. Register your attendance. These fairs are usually free, but get a “passport” by registering your free admission. You will probably get a name tag and some kind of welcome package. A name tag is a good thing to be wearing, when you’re speaking with admissions reps.

4. Bring a pen and paper, so you can take notes.

5. Dress in a tidy, respectable way.

6. Practice an introduction, so you can make a good first impression with representatives from the schools (likely the admissions offices). You never know who will be there, and you don’t know how much they will remember about potential candidates with whom they speak at the fair. Make sure all of your interactions are polished and confident.

7. Brainstorm a quick “elevator pitch” about YOU, in case you get into a conversation with someone. You just never know who you’ll meet, so be prepared! An elevator pitch is a good thing to put together in advance.

8. When you get there: - smile when you speak to people, and have good posture. - when you visit school booths, make connections, ask questions! - visit your top priority schools first, and then spend time looking at other programs — you never know what could be the best fit for you after high school.

Here’s a general introduction to prepare.

(Remember, you only have one chance to make a first impression, AND you never know how much a representative will remember about you.  Take this seriously.)

“Hi! I’m ___________________ and I’m in Grade ___________ at _______________.

I’m interested your _______________________ program, and after reading about it on your website ( *or visiting your campus* — show them you’ve already done research )  I’m wondering if you can tell me more information about ___________________________.

What other similar programs to this one are offered at your school?”

You can also inquire about:

• what kinds of school support services are available at the school.

• do students go home on weekends?

• what are the most popular courses in the ___________________ program?

…. and so on.

In your closing, you can say something such as “ it was nice to meet you” or “thank you for your time.” 

Make sure to pick up paperwork from programs that catch your eye!

Enjoy the experience at your University / College Fair!

Remember — your whole life is ahead of you — the world is your oyster.

Enjoy this process!

And for any applications needs - or for assistance during any stage of the school selection process, contact Right Track. We can help!