In October, students across the Valley will gather virtually for a two-day event to learn more about higher education opportunities. The Greater Arizona Virtual fair, hosted by Mesa Public Schools, provides a platform so students can explore a variety of universities, colleges and military academies. The Zoom event is from 5 to 8 p.m., Oct. 25 and 26.
Ben Fisher is the college and career coach in the district’s opportunity and achievement department. He shares that the virtual fair is one of many tools to help students discover post-secondary opportunities.
During the event, students will hear from six colleges within a 45-minute session, where they can learn about programs of study, financial options, scholarships, and the application process. Students will also have the chance to interact with representatives. Once students better understand their options, their high school counselors will assist with the next steps in their post-secondary education quest.
“For students on a college path, the fair marks the beginning of their fact-finding journey,” Ben says. “Students start thinking about what college can look like for them. The fair creates intrigue, and opens the door for students to have important conversations with families, counselors, and favorite teachers.”
HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE VIRTUAL COLLEGE FAIR
Interested in participating? Here are some tips:
• Make sure your tech is ready to go. The fair is accessible on school devices after hours, and students and parents should be ready to access Zoom via phone, tablet or computer. Charge your devices and practice using Zoom. Although students will be muted during the fair, the chat feature will be used for questions.
• Do preliminary research by visiting the schools’ websites and be prepared to take notes.
• Remember to save the college representative’s contact information for follow-up questions.
• Students should invite their parents or a grandparent to participate, and engage in family conversations regarding post-secondary plans.
• Reach out to your child’s school counselor, keeping them in the loop so they have accurate information regarding students’ aspirations.
HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE
Most students receive some type of financial aid. Ben highly recommends students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, even if they are unsure if they will qualify, so they are prepared when they start the application process. The FAFSA is the free application used by all schools in awarding federal student aid.
“It’s one of the most important steps students and families can take to pay for college,” Ben shares. “The earlier a student applies, the more sources of aid may be available.” College fair participants must pre-register to receive a specific link containing their college groupings for the event. Registration opens Oct. 1.
Learn more and register at mpsaz.org/collegefair/.