Graduating and leaving high school can be scary. The unknown world of college applications, scholarships and majors can be overwhelming and even a bit intimidating. Students may not even know where to start. Tupelo High School helps combat those thoughts with the annual college fair. The college fair features universities both private and public from Mississippi as well as surrounding states such as Tennessee and Alabama.

The college fair was held on October 17th from 5-7 pm in the dome. Students were able to talk to representatives from local and regional colleges as well as different branches of the military. Students gained information such as types of majors, and housing, and even could schedule tours to different colleges.

“The goal for the college fair was to expose not just seniors, but 9 through 12th grade. So all grades at the school just to expose them to colleges in this area. [We show] community colleges, universities [in-state], as well as [colleges in] the surrounding states like Tennessee and Alabama,” Middle College counselor Brittany Terrell said.

Students are informed of options after high school besides college. Military, workplaces, and trades make their appearance at the college fair.
Tupelo High also showcased its Middle College Program. Students can earn their associate’s degree as well as their high school diploma through ICC. Many students have realized the benefits of middle college.

“I would say anyone who can do it, should do it just because it’s like so much off the plate, especially if you want to do a long career like being a lawyer or a doctor or something. It quickly gets two years off you in high school,” Middle College student Matthew Butler said.

Finances to get to college can be a deal breaker, but the college fair provides options that students can partake in to lower the cost of admissions.

“There are plenty of scholarship opportunities for me. No matter who you are they’ll work with you,” Alaa Rhouat (11) said.

Tupelo works to foster relationships with many after-high school programs to better prepare their students for life after they leave 4125 Golden Wave Drive.

“There’s a program called MACRAO throughout the state that we register with, and we tell them, ‘Hey, this is the night of our college fair.’ MACRAO reaches out to all the schools and says, ‘This is when Tupelo is having their fair.’” Terrell said.

If you did not get the opportunity to visit the college fair, there are many ways to figure out their post-high school path. The grade-level counselors are ready to help you find your path after high school. Find them in J-building or online at the Tupelo counseling page. Be sure to check out what scholarships you can earn on the Tupelo school website.