College Fair, An Insider's Look

Are you starting your college search and preparing for your first fair? Have you attended a college fair and wondered what the representative behind the table was thinking? This insider look answers what goes on behind the scenes at a college fair and how you can make the most of these events.

Why attend a college fair?

A college fair is like bringing your internet search engine to life. You get to ask college representatives all about the academic, financial, and social opportunities available for your next step in education.

Admissions representatives travel across the country and the world to help you navigate college applications.

How does a college fair work for students?

• STEP 1: Register ahead of time and research the attending colleges to prepare a list of questions.
  • Top Tip! Think about what your ideal school looks like...Do you want to attend school in a big city or rural town? What topics do you enjoy studying? Do you want research opportunities and/or professional experiences before you graduate?
• STEP 2: Talk to representatives! Be brave and remember that we want to talk to you about your interests.
  • Top Tip! Challenge yourself to talk with colleges you have never heard of and see if you discover surprising information or interests.
• STEP 3: Take home notes and printed materials, including the representative's business card, so you can follow up over email with any questions after the fair.
  • Top Tip! Work smarter, not harder when it comes to sharing your contact information. Consider creating an email account solely for college information, bringing stickers printed with your information, and utilizing any technology available at the fair.

How does a college fair work for college representatives?

• STEP 1: Register for the fair. The purpose of college fairs is to generate interest and boost the college's reputation in a geographic region.
• STEP 2: Pack relevant materials.
  • What is in my bag? I pack hundreds of materials on every trip for you to take home. I always remember table decor, like a pennant and my Mario Drexel Dragon mascot plush as well as essentials like water and mints to make it through long hours of talking.
• STEP 3: Talk to students! The person behind the table could be an admissions representative, a local recruiter, or alumni who may never see your application. Representatives are excited to talk to you and hear about your dream college experience.
• STEP 4: Collect contact information and hand out materials. Representatives are often generalists. They may not have a story or detailed response to every question. Feel free to follow up over email after you meet at the fair if you want more detailed information.

Your college questions answered anytime and anywhere! Admissions representatives travel across the country and the world to help you navigate college applications.

If a representative from Drexel does not make it to your high school, please reach out over email or set up a virtual appointment. We are here to help!