Okay, the El Camino Spring University Fair is coming up (March 19, 11am-2pm, Library Lawn) and I want to be prepared . Over 60 schools will be there — UC, CSU, private colleges — and I don't want to waste this opportunity.
René Lozano from the Transfer Center said: "We encourage students to explore their options in higher education and having the opportunity to network with university reps is an important part of the transfer process" . But "networking" with reps isn't the same as just showing up.
For anyone who's done this before, what should I actually DO at the fair?
Here's my plan so far:
I'm specifically looking at UC schools (maybe Irvine or San Diego) and some CSUs. Anyone going to the fair with similar interests? Want to meet up and compare notes?
For students who've transferred successfully from El Camino: what's your best advice? What do you wish you'd known at the fair? What questions did you ask that got you useful answers?
René Lozano from the Transfer Center said: "We encourage students to explore their options in higher education and having the opportunity to network with university reps is an important part of the transfer process" . But "networking" with reps isn't the same as just showing up.
For anyone who's done this before, what should I actually DO at the fair?
Here's my plan so far:
- Research schools beforehand. Make a list of which ones are actually realistic for my major and GPA. No point wasting time on schools I can't get into or wouldn't attend.
- Prepare specific questions. Not "what's your GPA requirement?" (that's on the website) but "what kind of support do you offer for transfer students?" or "how competitive is admission for my major specifically?"
- Bring copies of my unofficial transcripts. Some reps might want to see my grades.
- Take notes after each conversation. I'll forget who said what if I don't write it down.
- Dress decently. Not formal, but not sweatpants either. First impressions matter.
I'm specifically looking at UC schools (maybe Irvine or San Diego) and some CSUs. Anyone going to the fair with similar interests? Want to meet up and compare notes?
For students who've transferred successfully from El Camino: what's your best advice? What do you wish you'd known at the fair? What questions did you ask that got you useful answers?