Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Mall hosts Chester County College Fair
WEST WHITELAND » More than 5,000 high school students and their parents attended a college fair last week at the Exton Square Mall last week to meet with representatives from more than 225 colleges nationwide.
There were booths for local colleges like West Chester University and Immaculata University at the 2014 Chester County College Fair held on Oct. 27. The attendees could visit colleges in other parts of the country at other booths, Chester County Intermediate Unit event organizers said.
A third-time visitor, Jill D’Ginto considers herself a “college fair pro.” This year, she attended the fair with her daughter, Liz D’Ginto, who is a junior at Downingtown West High School. Liz D’Ginto said she is interested in physical therapy. She said that
the chance to talk with representatives has helped her narrow down her choices.
“It’s convenient to have all the colleges in one place,” Jill D’Ginto said.
Representative Jordan Moore, of James Madison University (JMU) talked with prospective students about entrance requirements, financial aid, campus life and academic programs.
“It helps get our name out there,” Morre said. “Most students in this area have at least heard of JMU, but it’s nice to come out and talk with them a little bit more.”
In addition talking with representatives from col- leges and universities across the nation, students and parents were able to meet with representatives from nursing schools, junior colleges, community and technical colleges, trade and skill schools, and branches of the military service.
“What a wonderful place to host the event,” said Eileen P. Acello, the director of development and recruitment for Saint Joseph’s University. One of her children, a high school sophomore, visited the fair for the first time. “The mall is a familiar place. It’s less intimidating for students, especially the younger ones, to start looking around for the first time in this environment.”
Participants walked away with bags of informational brochures and catalogs.
“T here’s something for everyone at the fair, from four-year and twoyear colleges, to specialized schools,” said Jennifer Shealy, CCIU special events coordinator. “Attending the fair can save families time and money on college visits and help students narrow down their top choices.”
Among the participating local colleges and universities were: West Chester University, Immaculata University, Villanova University, Art Institute of Philadelphia, Temple University and Cabrini College. Representatives from more distant institutions also were present, including: Virginia Tech, Case Western Reserve University, The University of Tampa, Manhattan College and Culinary Institute of America.