Posted on 09/19/2019
In collaboration with the Missouri Association for College Admission Counseling (MOACAC), FHSD held its first districtwide College Fair on Sept. 18. High school juniors from across the District were transported to Francis Howell Central and given the opportunity to speak with representatives from over 100 universities, community colleges, trade schools, and military recruiters from across the nation.
“The college and career counselors at each of the high school buildings came together and decided that it would be more efficient and equitable to offer one, giant fair for ALL of our juniors, rather than attempt to host a smaller evening fair at each of the high school campuses,” said FHSD College and Career Specialist Katie Vargas. “Allowing the opportunity for all of our students to attend at least one fair opens so many additional doors for our students’ futures.” Many students wouldn’t be able to attend weekend or evening events due to work schedules, athletics, extra-curricular activities, or other demands at home. The fair was planned for juniors because many are starting to investigate educational and training opportunities after high school. The hope is that by the beginning of their senior year, students will have narrowed down their options, setting them up for the application process to the programs of their choice.
During the fair, students were welcome to roam about the tables and seek out colleges and universities that most interested them. “I talked to the University of Kentucky, which I have been looking at since freshman year,” said FHN junior Angela Cuccio. “It was really nice to be able to finally meet someone and talk to them about their campus and about the college itself, rather than just finding all of the information from online. I really enjoyed that interaction.”
Other students had the opportunity to learn about available programs and scholarship opportunities. “I learned a lot about what I need to do in order to achieve my goal in the career I want to pursue,” said FHHS junior David Trupiano. “I think it was beneficial. I learned a lot I didn’t know about college and how expensive it is. I want to be a financial advisor, and they told me what I need to major in for that and gave me advice on what I need to do.”
“I loved watching students meaningfully engage with colleges that they had never heard of before,” said Vargas. “My hope is that students walked away from the fair with the understanding that their options are limitless, that the world is their oyster, and that they are loved and supported by many in this District as they navigate to their future path!”