The Lockport College Fair will be hosted in East campus’ auditorium on Oct. 30.  It is sure to be the largest yet according to Deborah Turrisi. College Career Center counselor Turrisi is working one-on-one with students and parents, putting emphasis on the fair. She is reminding students to apply to schools until Nov. 1, and seek aide in their college search.

”Currently we’re at about 55 (schools), with a target goal of a hundred. In comparison with last year at 80 (schools), we intend to grow,” Turrisi said.

With colleges presenting from across the the nation, midwest schools, trade schools, and all branches of the military, it is difficult for students to make an impression.

To stand out at these meetings, Turrisi reminds students “You only apply for college once, (to) be memorable, ask good questions and be an attentive listener…These reps will ultimately decide whether you’re getting into that school or not.”

When asked about what information college representatives bring to the college fair, Turrisi said “They like to highlight about their particular majors like direct entrance into programs, like nursing, it’s especially valuable to students who have a lower GPA or a low ACT.”

Direct admission programs have students begin working towards their intended major, instead of first attending a full year of prerequisite courses.

As for getting into those colleges, the CCC hosted a college essay writing workshop this past week, and “plans to offer ABC’s of college search for students as the department does every year. We are hosting FAFSA clinics in Jan. and Feb., one each month for parents to come in. There will be a representative (giving a presentation) during (those clinics) from Illinois Students Assistance Commission.This year, the goal is to have breakout sessions on specific aspects like NCAA or FAFSA,” said Turrisi.

Turrisi also recommends students attend presentations during the school day, and recommends attending a presentation as early as possible, attendance numbers grow as the year moves along.“Every day is so different… we do average something like ten students but around the middle of the year, it’s around 20.”

Mylene Lamsen, an LTHS Senior found the Belmont presentation to be “Really helpful, I’ve found a school that I really want to attend.”