Poway Unified’s college fair is Tuesday night

By Elizabeth Marie Himchak

All Poway Unified School District high school students and their parents are welcome to the annual college fair that will be held 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 at Mt. Carmel High School.

PUSD_logoThe event, sponsored by the district and Palomar Council PTA, will include representatives from more than 150 colleges, universities and technical schools. There will also be several workshops. Admission is free.

While families of freshmen might think such an event is for upperclassmen, Workshop Coordinator Charmaine Quidachay said, “It is better to get a head start (on the process).”

Attendees can attend two workshops — the first session from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. and second from 7:30 to 8:15 p.m. Topics include applying to highly selective colleges, obtaining financial aid, exploring the community colleges in San Diego, SAT and ACT exams, college athletic recruiting, athletic scholarships and financing, early acceptance into medical school programs and art institutes.

Since more than 3,000 attended last year, Quidachay said a similar turnout is expected this year. With limited parking at Mt. Carmel High School, 9550 Carmel Mountain Road in Rancho Penasquitos, she said organizers are requesting attendees carpool or walk, if possible.

There will be additional free parking and shuttle service from Black Mountain Middle School, 9353 Oviedo Street, and Sunset Hills Elementary, 9291 Oviedo Street.

Since being faced with more than 150 schools can be daunting, Quidachay said students and their parents are being encouraged to prepare for the fair. Tips on how to make the most out of the experience are on the event’s website,

www.powayusd.com/news/college/collegefair

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Quidachay said there will be food available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting Mt. Carmel Grad Nite.