On Monday, Sept. 29, Minnesota State University - Mankato hosted the MN Education Fair (MEF). The event is organized by the Minnesota Association for College Admission Counseling (MACAC), where students and families can gather information about post-secondary education options and military opportunities from representatives of various colleges, universities, community colleges, and technical schools.
Over 80 colleges, universities, and recruiters were in attendance at MSU Mankato's MEF. GFW juniors and seniors were able to attend the event and more than 80 total students were able to go. We were thrilled to hear from a MSU Admissions Advisor that GFW students asked inquisitive questions and that our students were respectful while visiting the campus.
On the bus ride home, several conversations could be heard amongst students talking about where their classmates were going to attend college, what they wanted to do after high school, and information they learned at the fair. It's always fun to witness students with different backgrounds and interests come together during these fairs and take interest in their classmates' future.
We asked a few students to share their perspectives.
Luke Bastian, Class of 2026
"I enjoyed the opportunity to talk to many area colleges. I did not finalize the college I want to go to yet, but I was intrigued by SDSU and I have a visit now planned there."
Jennifer Guzman, Class of 2027
"I really enjoyed going to MEF, as you got to see many different colleges and what they offer. They had tons of different options, as well as different program options within the colleges. I wish we had gotten more time to see more booths. I didn't finalize what college I want to attend but considered some options that were there."
Carson Lee, Class of 2026
"It was good to talk to the colleges and see what they offer for majors and minors. I talked to SDSU as I will be going there after this school year to attend college there."
Lara Stegeman, Class of 2027
"There were many options. It was nice talking to representatives because they gave instructions on what you need to do in high school to be the best student for your program. They were helpful in talking about how competitive their programs are and if they offer it. It was a very enriching experience and I think it helps students connect with colleges from around the Midwest."
Skylar Lyimo, Class of 2027
"I really enjoyed the MEF fair. It helped me understand what programs and majors can help me achieve my career, as there is no specific major for my career. I really like how many different colleges there were, even though I wish more colleges outside the midwest were there."
Emersyn Bacon, Class of 2027
"The Minnesota Education Fair was very helpful for me. I got to talk to some colleges that I haven't really thought about attending before today, but after this career fair, I am going to do some more research about what these different programs offer. I got to explore different degree options that the colleges I talked to offer as well. I am still trying to decide what I want to earn a degree in, but I am thinking about something in the Architecture or Agricultural workforce. I thought that the career fair at MSU today was very helpful for me!"