Ann Arbor schools to welcome more than 100 colleges and universities at annual student fair

Between 1,500 and 2,000 students are expected to saunter through the Pioneer High School cafeteria Wednesday for Ann Arbor Public Schools' 28th annual College and Career Fair.

The district will welcome admissions representatives and program advisers from more than 100 colleges and universities from around the country. Ann Arbor area businesses also are expected to attend.

All parties will meet with students and their parents, answer any questions and provide pertinent literature on the post-secondary opportunities they offer, according to the AAPS website.

The colleges will set up information tables in the cafeteria, located near the clock-tower entrance to the school, and the businesses will occupy the A-wing hallway outside the cafeteria, the district's website says.

Ann Arbor Public Schools' College and Career Fair draws students of all ages, from eighth grade on, and from other schools throughout Washtenaw County to participate, said district spokeswoman Liz Margolis. She said most of the students are high school sophomores and juniors who are starting to think about where they would like to attend college or what careers they would like to pursue.

"By now, seniors are making choices … so it's usually not seniors. Although, sometimes they will still go if they haven't made a decision yet. They can come and talk to the representatives of the few colleges they are trying to choose between," Margolis said.

The College and Career Fair will take place from 6 to 8 p.m.

In-state colleges and universities, such as Eastern, Grand Valley, University of Michigan, Washtenaw Community College, Hope and Davenport, have signed up to attend, as well as out-of-state schools that include Bowling Green University, University of Arizona, University of Virginia, Washington University, Wheaton College and the U.S. naval and military academies.

Visit the AAPS website for a complete list of colleges and universities expected to participate.

Danielle Arndt covers K-12 education for AnnArbor.com. Follow her on Twitter @DanielleArndt or email her at daniellearndt@annarbor.com.