International college fairs are opportunities for students to learn about programs around the world directly from university representatives. In Brazil, these events are often hosted by international-facing high schools, or other international organizations such as EducationUSA . Fairs organized by high schools are mostly centered around connecting their students and families with university representatives. Often high school-based events are open to students from other high schools with permission. Large fairs open to the public are often held at a large facility such as a hotel or convention center.
Know before you go
Make sure to sign up to attend the college fair in advance. Contact the high school to receive permission to attend, or register for larger events on their event page.
Know which universities will have representatives in attendance. Identify your not-to-miss schools.
Some university representatives might only speak English
Create an email for your college search. You will be connecting with many institutions that may in turn send you a lot of email.
Prepare Questions
Focus on asking about information beyond what is easily found on the university's website.
Your questions about specific academic programs, organizations, clubs, services that interest you can lead to a more engaging conversation with the representative.
Ask about academic requirements. For example, if you are interested in studying an academic subject with a significant math component, such as engineering, ask about the math level of admitted students.
Ask about specific programs. A budding entrepreneur might ask about programs and clubs that support students' business endeavors.
Ask about academic flexibility, core requirements and options for changing majors.
If you require specific health services, ask about how the university can support you.
If a university is test-optional, ask how many admitted students submitted test scores.
Ask how many students are admitted each year to a specific program or major.
Ask about financial aid and merit-based scholarship opportunities.
You might even ask a logistical question, such as "how far is your university from the nearest international airport?"
During the fair
Wear clothes that are comfortable, yet appropriate. Wear comfortable shoes.
Bring something to take notes with like a notebook or your phone. Ask permission before you take any photos.
Bring a tote bag to take home the many fliers, booklets and other materials the college reps may hand out.
University reps may invite you to complete an interest form, or may give you their business card.
Visit at least one university table you've never heard of. You might be pleasantly surprised.
For parents attending the fair, please give preference to other students with questions.
You may feel information overload during the event. Don't worry. Get the university contact and follow up with questions via email when you go home.
After the fair
Reflect on which universities peaked your interest, and understand why. Take notes.
Continue the conversation with reps who were generous with their time, and where you might consider applying. Write them an email thanking them for their time, and include a follow-up question. To parents reading this, this email should come from the interested student.
Share any university handouts and swag you don't want with your college advisor or high school counselor so they can share it with other students.
If you attend a college fair in Brazil this year, please share your experience in the comments.
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