Over 1,000 students, parents, and staff packed Founder’s Hall on September 22 for the annual college fair, where more than 110 colleges from across the country showcased their programs and met potential student applicants.
The event’s setting, alternating yearly with Brophy College Preparatory, brought record attendance and created a massive buzz across campus as students explored schools ranging from large universities to smaller liberal arts colleges.
This year, Xavier wanted to make a bigger impact than ever before.
In the weeks leading up to the fair, the Xavier community worked to make sure every student felt involved, regardless of their grade level.
Xavier’s social media coordinator Zachary Carlson explained how the school decided to add some fun in preparation for this event.
“We wanted students of every grade level to feel excited about the fair. The scavenger hunt and giant backdrop of colleges were ways to bring the whole community into it,” Carlson said.
The scavenger hunt included 20-30 college pennants scattered around campus each morning. Students who found them were entered into a raffle for Starbucks gift cards, adding energy, excitement and anticipation to the event.
Alexis Quintero, guidance counselor and moderator for this event, emphasized the importance of the fair for first-time students.
“This is a great first step for students. The college representatives bring a wealth of knowledge and help answer questions that the students ask,” Quintero said.
She explained that the fair is an open invitation for all colleges. Colleges, though, that students have shown interest in over several years are typically prioritized, as well as schools that regularly partner with Xavier.
She added that this event helps students compare options in real time. “Some girls are looking at the sizes of schools, others at merit scholarships, and others at campus culture. Seeing so many options in one night gives them perspective,” Quintero said.
Benjamin Kelly, an NYU admissions representative, described how he tries to engage potential applicants. “I like to crack jokes and connect personally with people. People typically remember personality, so I try to be fun so they remember,” Kelly said.
Kelly explained that students often ask about financial aid and opportunities beyond academics. He noted that admission offices look especially closely at these factors when reviewing applications: academics, extracurricular involvement and leadership.
With an all-time record turnout, lively and fun activities, and valuable conversations, the annual college fair left students better prepared to navigate choices.
For many, it was the beginning of a journey toward finding the right college fit.
The combination of guidance counselors, admissions representatives and student enthusiasm turned the evening into more than just an event– it became a launching point for future student decisions.
