Every year of high school, you will have the opportunity to attend Got Plans? Career / College Fair. This is the largest career/college fair in East County San Diego. Got Plans? hosts representatives from local and national colleges, universities, trade schools, and the military. Got Plans? will allow you to learn about different colleges and career paths, and will help you find the post-secondary plan that is right for you.

Before the fair, determine the ideal college/vocational school for you. Consider the importance of the following factors:

  • Distance from hometown
  • Campus size
  • City size
  • Sports and activities
  • Course of study available
  • Cost of attendance

Find out which institutions are sending representatives to the fair. Select the ones that interest you. If you need help, ask your school counselor.

Next, decide what you want to know. Consider these questions:

  • What are the institution's strengths?
  • What is the policy on transfer credit for Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and dual-credit classes?
  • Does it have an open house for potential students?
  • Can I get in touch with current students to ask questions about the school?
  • How much is the application fee, tuition, other fees?
  • What are the admission requirements—high school classes, tests (ACT, SAT, SAT Subject), test scores?
  • What is the application deadline?
  • How many applicants does the school accept each year?
  • What scholarships and other financial aid are available?
  • What kind of student residence is available?
  • What is the average class size?
  • Is tutoring available if I am having trouble with a class?
  • Is there a job placement program for graduates? What is the rate of employment placement for graduates?

Bring these questions, a pen, and some paper with you to the fair. Take notes as you talk with each representative. Remember that you are the customer and it is the job of the representative to sell the institution—just as any salesperson seeks to sell a product.

Ask for a business card from each representative with whom you talk, or note the representative's name and phone number. If you are serious about attending a particular school, stay in touch with the representative. The day after the career/college fair, send a thank you note. If possible, arrange a visit to the school.