Fair Host FAQ &
Resources

Fair Host FAQ

You have taken the first steps to hosting a sanctioned fair, congratulations! Whether you have hosted before or are brand new these are some common questions other host sites have asked that you can use to make the most of the event for your students. 

While these are not requirements to host a fair they can help plan and execute your fair. If there is something not included on this page please reach out to micollegefairs@gmail.com.

Resources

Download the editable Michigan College Fair Flyer and explore StriveScan’s Host Tool Kit!

Where do students register for the fair?

What should I share with other high schools that are being included?

  • Remember to share important policies that your school has (i.e. clear bag, cell phone, etc.) 

  • Provide updated fair information and StriveScan instructions

Is my student data safe?

  • Yes, StriveScan does not sell student data and maintains strict privacy restrictions. You can read more about the policy on the StriveScan Website 

Can I communicate with the Representatives before the fair?

  • Yes, we encourage host sites to utilize their registration list for communication with fair representatives. The calendar will be updated based on the request form that is filled out when requesting a fair, please be as detailed as possible with parking and logistic information. 

    • If you are sending out additional communication we recommend sending multiple emails one month, two weeks, and one week in advance of the fair 

    • Please make sure to include any changes to parking, hospitality, and other logistics. If you include the Michigan College Fair Committee on these emails the website will also be updated.

How do I make a change to my fair logistics? 

  • If there are changes that need to be made please email the Michigan College Fair Committee. This includes updates on hospitality provided, parking, and other logistical information. Please provide any and all representatives with the website

How can I prepare my students for a successful event?

  • Before the fair, help students create their StriveScan barcode at StriveFair.com. Emphasize that this is their “access pass” to the fair 

    • If students don’t have access to their phones the codes can be printed out. Please email StriveScan at help@strivescan.com if you’d like a PDF of your students’ barcodes before your fair.

    • Additionally, StriveScan does not require internet access to use codes, students can have the codes sent to them via text or save them to their Apple Wallet.

  • Encourage students to network and maximize their opportunities at the fair by meeting with multiple representatives. 

What can I expect from representatives the day of? 

  • Every representative will approach the fair differently, however, there are many who arrive early. Be prepared to have student guides and the check-in area set up for eager representatives. 

  • Michigan College Fair Committee members will most likely be some of the representatives present during your fair and are here to help with anything that may arise the day of. They may provide feedback to support the safety of attendees and the flow of the fair. We appreciate your flexibility and willingness to work with our committee! 

What should I avoid during the fair?

  • Please limit loud announcements and music during the fair, this can prevent communication between students and representatives. 

  • Avoid waiting until the end of the fair to provide a time limit, plan to make an announcement about the end of the fair around 15 minutes before the official conclusion. 

What logistical elements are important to keep in mind? 

  • When setting up tables, plan to have aisles with representatives back-to-back. This prevents students from walking around or behind tables and allows storage of additional materials. 

  • Provide enough space around tables for representatives to move comfortably, in case of an emergency there should be a clear and easy path for representatives to take. 

  • To prevent injury, allow time for all representatives to leave before packing up.

  • Ensure accessibility compliance for all representatives and guests.

  • Walk your fair during the event. If a representative has a long line or is causing a traffic jam you can facilitate students to another institution or organization to prevent the line from becoming too long. 

What is the best way to organize representatives during the fair? 

  • Each fair will be unique in its layout, the best way to ensure good traffic flow and prevent congestion at your event is to strategically place schools. This could be by placing specific schools in dedicated rooms or separate corners. Additionally, it is a best practice to designate separate sections for careers, colleges, and the military. Grouping similar institutions or organizations can allow students to find what they are searching for with ease.

  • If you’ve hosted your fair previously, the data in your StriveScan Dashboard may be helpful to revisit. It can tell you which institutions had the business tables at your previous event. If you need assistant accessing your Dashboard, please reach out to StriveScan at help@strivescan.com.

What if I am unable to provide full hospitality? 

  • Our representatives understand that hospitality may not always be available at every fair. We ask that you indicate to representatives in advance if this is the case so they are able to plan accordingly. Additionally, having signage to show where to fill water bottles before the start of the fair is helpful!

What additional information is important to have moving forward?

  • Communication with representatives prior to the fair through the Michigan College Fair Website and/or emails is incredibly important. Having all representatives and attendees aware of expectations, logistics, and school-specific policies is the best way to ensure a successful and fun fair! If there is any way our committee can support you please do not hesitate to contact us.