Westfield Prep Hosts College Fair
With so many college options available to today’s high schoolers, it can be overwhelming to make a choice.
Thanks to College and Career Intervention Coach Valerie Williams, Westfield Preparatory High School students had a one-stop shop to learn from colleges about what life could look like after high school.
The school held its annual College Fair for students, hosting over 30 local colleges and universities, each with a representative on site to answer questions. Schools ranged from smaller, local colleges such as Henry Ford Community College all the way to bigger universities such as Michigan State and Eastern Michigan. This variety allowed students to find out what kind of school might be the right fit for them.
About 80 students participated in the after-school event, something Williams called one of her favorites of the year.
“I always think this is a great opportunity to get a lot of students in one space and offer them information,” Williams said. “A lot of our students might not know the opportunities that are readily available to them. For me, it’s phenomenal.”
Some students may not have as many resources to connect with colleges or visit a school, so offering this much information in one room benefits every student.
The College Fair is also a staple on the Westfield Prep calendar because it prompts students to start thinking about college if they haven’t yet. Learning about these schools early on helps students make the best, most informed decision.
Williams said it’s crucial for students to have this opportunity.
“It encourages them to start processing what they want to do after high school,” Williams said. “They have an opportunity to explore without any pressure versus trying to make a decision at the last minute.”
Seventh- and eighth-grade students also joined the event because it’s never too soon to start thinking about plans for after graduation. While these students aren’t making imminent plans, Williams said it’s good for them to participate.
Westfield Prep’s College Fair is just the start of the college readiness programming this year. Several schools showed interest in returning to give presentations and share more with students.
Williams also said the spring will feature financial aid workshops, college visits, and she’s thinking about adding a Career Fair to the calendar.
Thanks to the College Fair and the many upcoming events, Westfield Prep students will be equipped with the information they need to choose what’s next.
Great work, Mrs. Williams and all of Westfield Prep!