Prepare before fair:

 Use your career center or public library to read through college catalogs. Read the admissions information-but don't stop there-scan the majors and see what appeals. Find out about general requirements for college freshmen and sophomores. Look through some of the course descriptions. Try to get a sense of the college emphasis and atmosphere.

 Find out if you meet the minimum admission requirements before you speak to the reps. Read whatever application and catalog material you can lay your hands on. Compute your own GPA and make a list of all your college prep courses, including courses in progress.

 If you meet the minimum requirements, you'll need to ask the rep if there are other factors in the application review process.

 If you don't meet the minimum requirements, make a list of your 'problem' areas (like math, foreign language, low GPA) and ask the rep for specific advice on how to make up deficiencies.

 Make a list of the campuses you want to visit at the college fair. Prioritize to get the most out of your evening.

 Make sure that the campuses you "target" offer the major(s) in your interest area.

At the fair:

 If you haven't talked to a counselor at your school, visit the college fair's Counseling Center first, before you talk to the reps.

 Focus on the schools on your "wish list." Pick up brochures from your "wish list" colleges then follow through and read them.

 For a broad overview of public or private universities, or for an introduction to financial aid, attend one or more of the featured workshops at the fair.

 Read the information! The reps don't mind if you read it in front of them and ask questions. If something isn't clear, or if you don't understand the admissions jargon, ask!

 The more specific the question, the better the answer. The college reps' most-hated question is "Uh, how's your _________ department?"

 Remember, this is your moment to ask about your specific academic record and your specific goals. Use your moment wisely. !

Don't forget:

 Cover these important questions:

• Housing-when and where to apply?
• Financial aid-any special consideration or scholarships for freshmen?
• Tours-how to sign up? Are there open houses or previews I can attend?
• Interview/Advising for prospective applicants-Required? Important? How do I arrange for them?
• Sports, clubs, Greek life, extra-curricular activities-what's available?
• Placements of graduates-who are the primary employers? What percent went on to graduate or professional schools? Other important placement information?

 If you are undeclared or undecided on a major, ask the representative for advice on how best to proceed with your application.

• Most high schools in California have a wealth of information about California colleges and universities so you may want to concentrate on the out-of-state colleges who do not visit California regularly.
• If you missed visiting with a rep or if your "wish list" campus didn't send a rep, call or write the admissions office for more information.
• For phone numbers and addresses, use one of the many college handbooks available in your career or counseling office.