How to Use a College Fair

August 1, 2014; Provided by EDge College Consultants

Whether attending a large public fair like EducationUSA or a private fair -- such as the highly sought-after KIC UnivAssist tour, dedicated to on-campus fairs for Brazilian students -- learning how to navigate a university fair is imperative in making the application process a positive experience.

 

Before

College counselors find that students who take the time to reflect on their personality, progress and potential are more likely to get accepted because they know how these elements play into admissions. Students can self-reflect by using resources like Steven Antonoff's College Match or O*Net’s Skills Search. Meanwhile, rankings should be used with a critical eye, as numbers will never reveal if a program is an ideal match for student. From grades to extra curricular activities, applicants need to show how they will be valuable assets to campus and the program of study. Julio Ronchetti, the man behind the highly successful EduExpo fairs, explains "Good events bring the names of institutions present and information about their offerings. The work can be time consuming, but it is interesting to see what type of information they have to offer."

 

During

Students  arriving with clear ideas and specific questions navigate the event and make a good impression with more ease. Senior Assistant Director for International Recruitment at The Ohio State University, Marco Chavez, wants students to “ask questions that affect them and show genuine interest”. For example, “I see you have  Biomed and volleyball at X-university. How does your university support students doing both?” is a smart and intimate question. Having an engaging conversation and then following up with a representative, either through email or a campus visit, creates demonstrated interest, a component often noted in application files.

 

After

Frequent recruiter in Brazil and International Admission Specialist from Flagler College, Judi Marino, encourages students to sit at home and do the following: “ List the five most important things you are looking for in a college, check the list of majors for ones you want and let your parents look at the materials. Although college is your choice, parents will be instrumental in the final decision.” Intelligently working through possible university matches creates organizational skills and critical thinking, traits that need to be apparent in a college-bound student.

 

To further complement fairs and research, this author suggests CollegeBoard.org, EducationUSA, as well as independent counselors affliliated with organizations like OACAC, HECA, and IECA as excellent pillars of support for Brazilian applicants.   

 

Wishing you the best of luck on your journey!

 

Emily Dobson, Founder of Brazil College Counseling/EDge College Consultants, LLC.