pREPARE FOR The COLLEGE & career FAIR

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​student resources  & tools

GUIDE BOOK TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Tips for Attendees  | How to be successful @ the fair


​✅ Come Prepared
  • Bring a list of questions, a notebook or phone to take notes, and a general idea of what you're hoping to learn.

🎯 Have a Game Plan
  • Prioritize 5–10 schools or booths. Don’t collect materials aimlessly—ask intentional questions and make each conversation count.

🧠 Be Open-Minded & Be Respectful
  • Visit schools and programs you haven’t heard of—you might find a great fit where you least expect it and be respectful to the professionals and others in the room.  It is noticed, remembered, and appreciated.  Always remember, you are representing your school and area! 

💬 Have Real Conversations
  • Don’t just check off questions. Engage in meaningful dialogue and ask what sets each school or opportunity apart.

🗓️ Know the Basics
  • Understand key terms (like FAFSA and credit hours) and be aware of important deadlines for applications, housing, and scholarships.

🙌 There’s More Support Than You Think
  • Especially for first-gen, rural, or underrepresented students—ask how each campus supports students like you.

👥 Bring Support, But Take the Lead
  • It’s okay to bring a parent, friend, or counselor—but make sure you are the one asking the questions.

​😌 No Pressure & Have FUN!
  • This is just a starting point. You’re not expected to make decisions today—just to explore and learn and have fun.

example questions to ask at the fair
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❓Questions to Ask at the Fair To  Colleges & Universities
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 Academics & Opportunities
  • Do you offer [insert major here]?
  • What’s the average class size?
  • How do students access internships, research, or hands-on learning?
  • Are there opportunities for study abroad or exchange programs?

Financial Aid & Admissions
  • What types of scholarships and financial aid are available?
  • Is there an application fee? What does the process look like?
  • How do I schedule a campus visit?

Campus Life
  • What is housing like? Is it required to live on campus?
  • How do students engage with the surrounding town or city?
  • What are some unique campus traditions or aspects of student life?

Student Support Services
  • How diverse is your campus?
  • What support systems exist for student wellness, belonging, and mental health?
  • How are first-gen or rural students supported?

Montana Specific Questions
  • Are there scholarships or grants just for Montana residents?
  • How do you support students from small towns or rural communities?
  • How do MT students adjust to your campus

Questions for Out-Of-State Schools
  • What’s the total cost for out-of-state students? Do you offer WUE or tuition waivers?
  • Are there travel options (flights, buses, etc.) to get home for breaks?
  • Do you have communities, clubs, or support for rural or Montana-based students?
  

❓Top Questions to Ask at the Fair To Businesses, Industry, & Career Fields
 
About the Career/Industry
  • What does a typical day look like in your job or industry?
  • What skills are most important for success in this field?
  • What do you enjoy most about your career?
  • What are the biggest challenges in your line of work?
  • How is this industry changing, and what future opportunities do you see?
 
Education & Training
  • What level of education or training is required to enter this career?
  • Are there certifications, licenses, or apprenticeships needed?
  • Do you recommend a two-year degree, four-year degree, or on-the-job training?
  • Are internships or job shadowing opportunities available for high school or college students?
 
Career Path & Growth
  • What entry-level positions are common in your company or field?
  • How do people usually advance in this career?
  • What transferable skills should I develop now that will help me later?
  • Are there opportunities for advancement or specialization?
 
Work Environment
  • Do most people in this field work in an office, outside, in teams, or independently?
  • What is the work-life balance like in this career?
  • What kind of technology or tools do you use every day?
 
Opportunities & Hiring
  • What qualities do you look for when hiring?
  • What kinds of part-time jobs or volunteer experiences would help me prepare?
  • Are there summer jobs or internships available for students?
  • Does your company offer training for new employees?
 
Advice for Students
  • What advice would you give a high school student interested in this career?
  • If you could go back and give advice to your high school self, what would it be?
  • What classes in high school or college would best prepare me for this field?
  • Are there professional organizations, clubs, or online resources I should explore?
 

❓Top Questions to Ask at the Fair To Military Branches
 
Education & Training
  • What types of education or training programs are available through your branch?
  • Does your branch offer tuition assistance or programs like the GI Bill?
  • Can I earn college credits while serving?
  • Are there ROTC or officer training opportunities connected to your branch?
 
Careers & Specializations
  • What kinds of jobs or career fields are available in your branch?
  • Are there careers related to technology, healthcare, engineering, or other specialized fields?
  • How does someone choose their career or job assignment?
  • Can I switch career fields once I enlist?
 
Service Commitments & Lifestyle
  • What is the length of an initial service commitment?
  • What does a typical day look like for someone in your branch?
  • How often might I be deployed, and for how long?
  • What is the work-life balance like in the military?
 
Benefits & Opportunities
  • What benefits (healthcare, housing, retirement, etc.) are offered to service members?
  • Does your branch provide leadership training or professional development?
  • What opportunities are there for travel and seeing other parts of the world?
  • What support is available for military families?
 
Career Growth & Transition
  • How do promotions and career advancement work in your branch?
  • Are there opportunities to continue my career in the military long-term?
  • What options are available for veterans after serving?
  • How does military experience prepare me for civilian careers?
 
Advice & Next Steps
  • What qualities do you look for in recruits?
  • How should I prepare in high school if I am considering the military?
  • What is the enlistment process like?
  • Can I talk with someone who is currently serving to learn more about their experience?
 

❓Top Questions to Ask at the Fair To Agencies and Topics of Financial Aid, Scholarships, etc. 
General Financial Aid
  • What types of financial aid are available (grants, loans, work-study, etc.)?
  • What is the difference between federal, state, and institutional aid?
  • How do I know if I qualify for need-based vs. merit-based aid?
  • Are there deadlines I need to know about for applying for aid?
 
FAFSA & Applications
  • How do I complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?
  • When should I file the FAFSA, and do I need to file it every year?
  • What documents do I need to prepare before filling out the FAFSA?
  • What common mistakes should I avoid when completing financial aid forms?
 
Scholarships
  • What scholarships are available for students from my area or state?
  • Are there scholarships for specific majors, careers, or activities (athletics, arts, leadership, volunteering)?
  • Do you recommend local scholarships, national scholarships, or both?
  • How can I find “hidden” scholarships that are less competitive?
 
Grants & Special Programs
  • Are there state or federal grants I might qualify for?
  • What programs are available for first-generation college students?
  • Are there special scholarships for military families, tribal members, or underrepresented students?
  • Can I receive both grants and scholarships at the same time?
 
Work & Repayment Options
  • What is work-study, and how do I qualify?
  • How do student loans work, and what should I know before borrowing?
  • What repayment options exist after graduation?
  • What resources are available if I need help managing student debt?
 
Advice & Next Steps
  • What steps should I take during high school to prepare for scholarships and financial aid?
  • What tips do you have for writing strong scholarship essays?
  • Where can I find reliable information about financial aid (so I avoid scams)?
  • Who can I contact at my school or in my community for ongoing help with applications?