Latino College Expo connects Fresno Unified students with higher education opportunities

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Hundreds of Fresno Unified students gathered at the Fresno Convention Center Tuesday morning to explore college opportunities, career pathways and scholarship options during the district's third annual Latino College Expo.

Students lined up outside the convention center before doors opened, eager to meet with representatives from colleges and universities across the state and country.

Inside the main hall, students had the opportunity to speak directly with admissions representatives from community colleges, California State University campuses, private universities and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

For Sunnyside High School senior Jacoby Darden, the event offered a chance to explore possibilities for life after graduation.

"I do plan on going to college after high school, like leaving, hopefully leaving Fresno area and like exploring for my own life," Darden said.

The expo was organized through a partnership between Fresno Unified School District and the National College Resources Foundation. Organizers said the goal is to help students better understand their higher education options and the resources available to help them achieve their goals.

"We're here to help students navigate life in school, navigate how to get there," said Dr. Theresa Price, founder and CEO of the National College Resources Foundation.

Price said the organization is committed to supporting students from a variety of backgrounds.

"Low resources, foster, homeless, whatever your situation is, you have us as your family," she said.

Beyond the college fair itself, students attended workshops and seminars covering topics such as financial aid, college preparation and succeeding as a first-generation college student.

Nicole Witrado, Fresno Unified's director of college readiness and counseling, said exposing students to opportunities they may not have previously considered is a major goal of the event.

"So, you know, we want a student to leave here saying, 'I didn't know I could do that,'" Witrado said. "And so that it just opens up doors and opportunities for them. We just think that that's so important for them to know."

Some colleges participating in the expo offered on-the-spot admissions opportunities, while others awarded scholarships to students during the event.

Darden said he appreciated the chance to gather information and learn more about his options.

"I think it's beautiful to help people who don't know how to get that chance, to help people who are confused, like me, and really get out there," he said.

Organizers say the expo is one of several upcoming opportunities for students and families to learn more about higher education.

Fresno County Superintendent of Schools will also host College Night at the Fresno Convention Center Wednesday evening from 6- 8 p.m. You can find more information by clicking here.

For news updates, follow Jessica Harrington on Facebook, X and Instagram.