It would be beneficial for all the students if more college representatives were brought to Park. Bringing in more college representatives would expose students to diverse options for college, educate them about the application process, help with decision making, and work as a networking advantage.
Park should bring more representatives because it would allow students to broaden their horizons about the handful of opportunities after high school. Usually, students only hear about a couple of colleges from family or other teachers, which are typically in the same region, but there are thousands of colleges and universities, each with unique strengths. This function could gloss over smaller hidden gem schools that offer particular niches or majors specialized for a student’s interests. By bringing in more school representatives, all voices could be heard, like HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), liberal arts colleges, and tech schools.
Not everybody will go to a standard four-year college, so if Park brings in more technical schools, students will be able to see the various options. Similarly, HBCUs offer a unique focus on African-American culture and history. Students might appreciate this diversity in the college experience and learn about something that’s more in line with their goals. Also, the students could be drawn by the close-knit communities at HBCUs.
I believe educating students about the application process is huge, and it’s something that college representatives are extremely qualified about and can help with. For example, college representatives can help alleviate confusion about the GPA or test score requirements, as well as inform students about what test-optional means. College representatives can also enlighten students about the difference between early decision and early action. For many students, the application process is extremely confusing, so a college representative can help break it down step by step. Similarly, college representatives bring valuable information about different scholarship and financial aid programs.
College representatives can be a huge asset in helping students make smart, confident decisions on where to apply and go. Websites and pictures highlight the best the college has to offer, while college representatives can give you an unfiltered, authentic experience about what the school is actually like. These insights could include what type of students thrive there and about the quality of the dining halls and dormitories. I believe that having college representatives visit high schools helps with networking, as students can start forming connections with admission officers.
Even if Park doesn’t bring in more college representatives, Park should bring other pathways out of high school, like trade schools and apprenticeships. College may not be for everyone, so if Park brings in a wide range of options that traditional students may not know about, it can be beneficial for students. I would advise Park to lean towards over-scheduling college visitors rather than under-scheduling. A great time for this could be during Park Connections, which many students think is too long and need something to do.
