Before the fair
True or False: Arriving on time can help maximize the amount of college representative tables you can visit.
True
What is the most appropriate dress code for a college fair?
School uniform
What should be the very first thing you say to a college representative when you walk up to their table?
Introduce yourself: “Hi, my name is ____, I’m a junior/senior interested in ____”
What’s a good question to ask if you want to know about support for first-generation or working students?
“What student support services are available (advising, tutoring, CWSP/work-study flexibility)?”
Within 24–48 hours after the fair, what is one important action you should take toward the reps you spoke with?
Send a thank-you email or message referencing your conversation
Bring these two items so reps can follow up and you can take notes.
A pen/notebook and your contact info (or résumé QR)?
Name two things you should avoid wearing or carrying that may be distracting or unprofessional.
ats, sunglasses, earbuds, heavy perfume/cologne, gum, or bulky backpacks
If a representative is already speaking to another student, what should you do?
Wait patiently to the side until it’s your turn
To compare programs, what are two opportunities you could ask about that go beyond classes?
Internships/co-ops and undergraduate research/study abroad
What online platform should you update so your counselor knows which colleges you’re interested in?
SCOIR (or your school’s college planning system)
This short pitch (30–45 seconds) includes your name, grade, interests, and goals.
An elevator pitch
What three nonverbal cues help make a strong first impression when meeting a college representative?
Eye contact, a smile, and a confident greeting/handshake
If brochures at a booth look limited but you want the information, what is the polite solution?
Ask if you may take one or use your phone to scan/photograph the QR code instead
What is one smart financial aid question you can ask a representative?
“What percent of financial need is typically met?” or “Can I use both merit and need-based aid?”
What three types of notes should you keep about each college so you can make smart decisions later?
Academic fit, cost/financial aid notes, and campus vibe/opportunities
What resource should you check before the fair to know which colleges are attending and where to find them?
The college fair exhibitor list or map
Since you will be allowed to have your phone, what is the only acceptable use during your conversations at a booth?
Silenced and only used for scanning QR codes/contact cards
You’re not sure if your GPA or scores are competitive. How can you ask without oversharing or being awkward?
Ask what the middle 50% GPA/test score range is and how applications are reviewed
What’s a question you could ask to learn about student success after graduation?
What percentage of graduates find jobs or attend grad school within six months?”
If you decide you’re not interested in a school, what should you do to close the loop respectfully?
Politely unsubscribe from emails or stop communications and refine your list
What are two things you can research about a college ahead of time so your questions are stronger?
Majors/programs offered and admissions/financial aid basics
When the area around a booth is crowded, how should you position yourself to stay respectful and not block others?
Stand to the side, wait in one line, keep backpack in front, and avoid blocking the table
If you realize a college isn’t a good fit for you while at their booth, how should you respond?
Thank the rep politely, take a note, and move on respectfully
What’s a good question to ask to learn the next steps you should take to become a stronger applicant?
“What should I do in the next 12 months to make my application stronger here?”
Name two ways you can turn a quick fair conversation into long-term demonstrated interest.
Attend a virtual session, connect with a student ambassador, join a rep visit, or start your application/profile