Over 140 colleges, universities expected at Peabody High college fair

PEABODY – Although the school year has just begun for local high schoolers, it’s already time for them to start planning for college.To help in their preparation, Peabody Veterans Memorial High School will host a college fair on Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Field House.”This is something we’ve done for many years,” said guidance secretary Susan Marc-Aurele. “And it just keeps getting bigger and bigger.”Over 140 colleges and universities will be present, as well as representatives from the military and financial institutions. Each featured guest will offer an array of informational pieces about their institution, as well as have an admissions staff member on hand to answer any questions students might have.”It’s good for students to gather information, talk to admission reps, then go and visit some schools,” said Marc-Aurele.She also recommended that students be prepared before arriving, as it can be overwhelming. She suggested to look at the list of attendees posted on the school’s Web site and research ones that seem interesting. Then, she said, make a list of those particular institutions and target them while at the fair.”That’ll help narrow the list down,” she said.The event is free and open to all students, including those from surrounding towns and school districts.Local banks will be there to help answer questions on financing a college education through various loans, and Kaplan will be there to discuss required college testing.”It’s not in a seminar format,” cautions Marc-Aurele. “It’s up to you to gather your own information.”Some of the colleges and universities attending the event include Northeastern University, Wellesley College, the University of Rhode Island, Hofstra University, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and Bentley College.For more information and the complete list of other participants, contact Marc-Aurele at 978-536-4531; or log on to www.pvmhs.peabody.k12.ma.us.