The March 19 College Fair provided an opportunity for all students to gain information and build up a list of possible candidates of colleges they may want to attend. Attending a college fair can become a pivotal part in students’ decision-making process, especially if a student cannot visit many different schools. Designed to get students a feel for what each college has to offer, the fair can offer a chance for students to picture themselves making a commitment in the future. The fear of not making the right decision when it comes to colleges or being worried about not finding the right fit can be eased. At the fair, students can discuss their goals and aspirations with people whose job revolves around assisting prospective students with the college process. Students are not required to say yes to any colleges or have their majors figured out at this time, but should keep an eye out for their top choices and communicate with the advisers in order to gain insight and contact information for future references.
When they arrived, attendees were given a list of colleges and a map for navigation purposes. The layout of the tables were arranged based on the location of the school. Colleges from surrounding states such as New York and Pennsylvania were represented, offering a solution for students who may not want to study in state, but still wish to explore the world beyond the borders of New Jersey. While taking a walk around, students were met with tables filled with flyers and souvenirs for each college present. Each table was accompanied by an adviser prepared to answer any questions.
90+ colleges, universities, career/trade schools, and military scouts attended this event. Coming up to a table may have seemed overwhelming at first, but the positive attitudes of the advisers made the process more simple. They started off by asking what students thought about pursuing in life and what that meant in terms of the things they have to offer. Everyone was welcome to stay for as long as needed chatting with them to get a better understanding of how their institute could be the right choice.
Prior to this day, students signed up for the fair through their email. They were given a barcode that the advisers scanned if the student would like to hear from them again. This would keep them updated about information pertaining to these colleges and what they can expect if they apply there. This method provided a way to stay connected and not lose track of colleges they felt sparked an interest.
Students who visit the College Fair were welcome to get ahead of the process and ask about any internships or opportunities they might have found at any college before enrolling. This way they could match up their major to what is available at these establishments and get a taste of what their future may hold.
Even those who may not want to stray far from home can find their place. Commuting can be difficult, but representatives from the colleges ensured that students would in no way be left out from their newfound community. Christina Sacara, employee of Rider University, said, “We have a lot of internships and actually require that all of our students complete the ones of their choosing. We offer very strong partnerships in almost all of the major fields that we offer. Rider also specializes in career fairs that will lead our students toward the right internships.” These trainings are influential in giving students more of a hands-on experience within their major by putting them in real-life situations they could be met with in the future. It helps them develop their skills so they are much more prepared for what their careers may throw at them, and in touch with potential employers.
Even students who aren’t looking to go to college can find something for them. Several branches of the military offered advice and opportunities to prospective enlistees. They also shared information about how to join and the different career paths that they offer. Navy Officer Ever Jackson shared the numerous benefits to joining the military. “The first benefit of the navy is travel, and we also offer 100% tuition to any college of your choosing, as well as free medical and dental plans. If you are unsure of what you want to do in the future, the military provides job certification and allows you to switch jobs if you desire to,” Jackson said.
Junior Esmeralda Lopez said,“The college fair helped me think about my future more seriously, and it also helped me realize I might want a future in the navy.”
The college fair is an event that keeps in mind the overwhelming nature of searching for and finding the right college for students. It facilitated the process and removed the feeling that students face of not knowing where to start. Instead of being worried about rooting around to find different colleges, the HHS College Fair allowed students to jump into a pool of choices while avoiding a hassle.
