One of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in the college admissions process is the college fair or information session. I’ve worked with hundreds of students who’ve walked into these events unsure of what to expect and walked out with clarity, confidence, and even personal connections to admissions officers. Whether you’re just starting your college search or narrowing down a final list, attending these events can be a game-changer — if you know how to approach them.
Navigating College Fairs and Info Sessions for Admissions
College fairs and info sessions are more than just rows of tables and brochures. They’re your chance to ask real questions, make memorable impressions, and gather insights you won’t find online. But they can also be overwhelming without a plan. I’ve seen students get lost in the noise, unsure what to say or who to talk to. So let’s break it down together — how to attend, what to ask, and how to follow up effectively.
How to Prepare for College Fairs and Info Sessions
Preparation is everything. Going to a college event without a plan is like showing up to a test without studying. You might get lucky, but you’re more likely to miss opportunities. I always tell students: know what you’re looking for, but be open to what you might discover.
Step 1: Do Your Homework
Before the fair, get a list of which colleges will be there. Most fairs post this online. Then, research the schools you’re most interested in. Look into:
- Majors and programs you might pursue
- Campus culture and student life
- Admission requirements and deadlines
Knowing some background helps you ask better questions. It also shows reps that you’re genuinely interested — a key part of demonstrated interest, which many schools consider in admissions.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials and Mindset
Bring a notebook, a pen, and a bag for collecting brochures. If the event allows, print a few copies of your resume or an activity list. Some students even bring business cards with their name, email, and high school — a small touch that leaves an impression.
Mentally, come with curiosity and confidence. You don’t need to have everything figured out. One student I worked with, Amina, came to a fair thinking she’d only apply in-state. But after speaking to a liberal arts college from the Northeast, she shifted her view completely and eventually enrolled there — a place she hadn’t even heard of before that day.
What to Do During the Event
Once you arrive, take a few minutes to scan the room. Start with the colleges you researched, but don’t skip schools you’re less familiar with. Some of the best discoveries happen by accident.
Ask Meaningful Questions
Rather than asking, “What majors do you have?” (which you can find online), try questions like:
- “How would you describe the academic vibe of your campus?”
- “What kind of student tends to thrive at your school?”
- “What are some standout programs or traditions most applicants don’t know about?”
A student I advised, Daniel, once asked a rep from a tech-focused university why they didn’t offer an honors college. The rep explained they integrate honors-level research into first-year seminars instead. That insight helped him later write a tailored essay — and he got in.
Be Yourself — But Make Yourself Memorable
When you introduce yourself, mention your high school, your interests, and what draws you to their school. Say your name clearly, make eye contact, and shake hands if culturally appropriate. Even in crowded spaces, a genuine smile and thoughtful question can make you stand out.
This matters. I’ve had admissions reps tell me they remembered a student who asked a great question months earlier — and that helped during application review. It’s not just about grades and test scores. Your presence can be part of your application story.
Sign Up and Stay Engaged
Always fill out the interest cards. Some schools track interactions as part of their holistic review process. If they offer an info session or interview later, sign up on the spot. These are often more intimate settings where you can dive deeper and show continued interest — especially valuable if you’re applying to schools with holistic admissions.
Following Up After the Event
After the fair, don’t just toss those brochures in a drawer. Take 30 minutes that night to reflect. What stood out? Which schools left an impression? What questions do you still have?
Write a Thoughtful Follow-Up Email
Within a few days, email the reps you connected with. Keep it short but specific:
- Thank them for their time
- Mention something you talked about
- Reaffirm your interest in the school
One of my students, Janelle, followed up with a small liberal arts college after an info session. She mentioned how their cross-disciplinary arts program aligned with her summer project — which she had detailed in her portfolio. That email sparked a longer conversation and later helped her earn a competitive scholarship.
If you’re applying to honors programs or portfolio-based schools, these follow-ups are especially critical. They give you a chance to show initiative, personality, and depth beyond the application form.
Add Notes to Your College List
Update your college planning spreadsheet or tracker. Add notes on each school, who you talked to, and what you learned. Come application time, you’ll thank yourself. These notes are gold when writing essays or preparing for interviews, like the ones covered in our college interview prep guide.
FAQ: College Fairs and Info Sessions
Do colleges really track who attends these events?
Many do. It’s part of what’s called “demonstrated interest,” which can influence admissions at some schools. If a college tracks it, your visit, sign-up, and follow-up email can all count in your favor.
What if I’m nervous talking to admissions reps?
That’s completely normal. Start with a school you’re less interested in to warm up. Practice with friends or family beforehand. Remember, these reps are there to help. They want to connect with students like you.
Are virtual info sessions worth attending?
Absolutely. Since the pandemic, virtual sessions have become more interactive and personalized. They’re especially useful for international students or those in rural areas. Always treat them like in-person events — camera on, questions ready.
What if I missed the fair in my area?
Many schools host regional or virtual events throughout the year. Check their admissions pages or sign up for newsletters. You can also connect during high school visits or through alumni networks.
Final Thoughts
I’ve seen students light up after a college fair — suddenly excited about schools they never considered or finally confident in their top choices. College fairs and info sessions aren’t about collecting pamphlets. They’re about collecting moments of clarity, connection, and courage.
So whether you’re a first-gen student figuring it out on your own, an international student navigating U.S. admissions, or just feeling overwhelmed by choices, remember: showing up matters. Asking questions matters. And how you follow up can make all the difference.
And if you’re wondering what else you can do in high school to stand out, check out our guide on summer activities that boost applications. Every step you take now builds the story that colleges will read later.