As the fall leaves begin to change color, the pathway to adulthood leads hopeful adolescents to pursue a higher education. Over time, interests develop, passions solidify and the desire for new opportunity drives many to take the next step: going to college. Colleges all over California and out of state are coming together to help make that transition easier. College fair season has arrived in the Central Valley starting Sept. 11, 2024.
Upcoming local college fairs you don’t want to miss:
College Night will be held on 6-8 p.m. Sept. 11, 2024 at the Fresno Convention Center Exhibit Hall. This is a free event with online registration.
The California State University College night is 6-8 p.m. Sept. 16, 2024. With free online registration, all 23 campuses will be represented.
Fresno County Christian College Fair
The Fresno County Christian College Fair will take place 6-8 p.m. Oct. 1, 2024. The fair will take place at Fresno Christian Schools in the PC Gym. A few schools attending include Biola University, The Masters University, and Westmont College. Registrations is free and available online.
These events are designed to give people a better perspective on collegiate opportunities. Jennifer Quinn-Yovino, event coordinator for the Fresno Area College Night, explains why it is beneficial for students to attend College Night.
“This event is an opportunity for students to talk with colleges from all around the nation. They can discover how to make college happen,” Quinn-Yovino said. “Students are able to participate in breakout sessions, [regarding] scholarships and financial aid.”
The California State University, Fresno, college fair presents all 23 CSU campuses for prospective students to meet with representatives and learn more about every program. Fresno Christian Schools Academic Counselor Evangelina Escovedo deciphers what red flags to look out for in potential colleges.
“One thing I encourage students and even parents to ask is if the college has a four-year graduation guarantee,” Escovedo said. “If the representative starts stumbling or hesitating, that is a red flag.”
Students are highly encouraged to research colleges before attending the fairs. One thing attendees are guided to do in person is get the contact information from the colleges they are interested in. This way students can connect with the college to follow up. Preparing questions is also a great way to be sure students are getting the right information from each college that pertains to them.
Here are a few suggested questions to ask college representatives:
-What support services are available for attendees, both academically and personally?
-What distinguishes this college’s academic programs from other institutions?
-What is their SAT/ACT policy?
-What are the most significant changes or improvements coming to campus in the next few years?
Students are encouraged to start thinking about their futures in their freshmen and sophomore years. Whether it is college, military, beauty school or entering the trades. Typically, students start to look at colleges their junior year to prepare for fall applications their senior year. Chloe Johnson, ‘25, shares how she is preparing to choose a future career path.
“I am planning on attending as many college fairs as possible,” Johnson said. “I am looking forward to the Fresno County Christian College Fair I am interested in pursuing a degree at a private Christian university that integrates faith [into] learning.”
Be sure to attend these educational and informative events in the upcoming weeks. For additional information about the college fairs, see links above.
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