Thousands Turnout for College Night in Fresno | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Fresno, CA Fresno City College is one of the junior colleges that attended the college fair. Many students say in this tough education climate they are considering all options when it comes to tuition and schedules.

In a rush-high school students from all over Fresno County poured through the doors for college night and the chance to talk one on one with college recruiters.

Jennifer Quinn said, "They can learn how to financially prepare for it, the parents the students can learn what classes they need to take in high school in order to be the best candidate for the college of their choice."

Mary Vang said, "I'm asking questions about the vibe at Santa Cruz the top majors that are usually picked."

How to pay for college is on the minds of many students. Maria Kelly says because of the rising tuition, many are stopping by the booth at Reedley College.

"Some of them are wondering about costs that's why a lot of them tend to come to a junior college we can save them a lot of money," said Kelley.

Recently California state schools have cut freshmen enrollment, out of state recruiters say Valley students are showing lots of interest in their programs.

Hilja Mueller from Montana State University said, "Seeing what we have to offer academically and scholarships are another question too."

Most of the students here this year are from outlying communities in Fresno County. While there may be more students the number of vendors has declined.

Quinn said, "There are a few fewer schools here this year because they don't have the budget to spend."

Some are considering the military as an option.

Josh Areyza said, "There has been a little bit of interest because of the full ride scholarship and the good academic program."

But Josh Areyzas father says an education from a military academy comes with a different price. He said, "There is a payback with the military though you have to do four years five years to them."

This event was hosted by the Fresno County Office of Education. With the help of PG&E they used nearly a dozen "green" or environmentally friendly buses to transport students from all over the county, which they say led to a higher turnout.