College fairs are a great way to learn about a lot of schools all at once. These events normally host a variety of colleges from across the country at separate booths. They can get overwhelming though if you don’t arrive with a game plan.

Get the information you want from the people who have it using these college fair tips at every upcoming fair that you attend.

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Have A Game Plan

Don’t go into a fair unprepared.

Do your research beforehand:

• Pick the college booths you want to visit
• Put together your questions for representatives
• Figure out what programs you want to check out

You will make the most of your time at the fair.

Show Your Engagement

Monitor how engaged you are with college officials.

If you’re approaching booths, check how much interest you’re showing officials when speaking with them:

• Are you getting the answers you want?
• What is your impression of the person you’re speaking to from this particular school?
• How much energy are you putting out?

All of these factors will play a role in which schools you want to follow up with later.

Find Out Which Schools Will Attend

Get a list of who will be available for visits.

You can find this information in a couple of ways usually:

• Check with your high school guidance counselor
• Check out the college fair’s website
• When you have the list, start putting together your own checklist of importance

When you arrive, you can visit the most interesting schools first.

Dress Appropriately

Help make a good impression on visiting officials.

You don’t have to wear a full-blown suit, but don’t dress sloppy either. A nice shirt paired with a good pair of slacks or skirt will help out a lot.

One tip: wear comfortable shoes. You will be walking around a lot, so don’t wear shoes that will hurt your feet. Be comfortable but make sure the shoes are clean. Carry around some bottled water too.

Ask For Contact Information

Get the contact details you need for follow-ups.

You will ask a lot of questions to many different people. As good as you prepare, you will want to know more.

That’s why you should politely ask for the contact info from every admissions official you meet. They should have business cards available with that information on them. Don’t be shy to ask, but be respectful.

Gather Your Supplies Beforehand

Don’t show up empty-handed.

Here’s a quick college fair kit to assemble:

• Pens and notebook
• Bottled water
• Comfortable shoes
• Printed contact labels
• Small snack
• Backpack

You will have everything you need then to collect brochures, write down notes, and make sure you don’t go hungry or thirsty while walking around a lot.

Bring Printed Labels

Supply your contact information quickly and easily with this tip.

You probably won’t have business cards, so this is the next best option. Include the following information on them:

• Name
• Telephone Number
• Email Address
• High School
• Graduation Year
• Majors of Interest
• General Special Interests

Some fairs may provide you with scannable badges that college reps can use to obtain that information too. But don’t be afraid to have some of these labels ready, just to exchange contact information easier.

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