• The fair is taking place in the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) Atrium. Review the campus map if you need help finding it.
• No registration is necessary.
• Drop in at any time during the event to browse booths. Learn about different programs, chat with school reps and ask questions to help improve your application.
• Remember to collect brochures, contact information and additional details from the schools and programs that interest you. This way, you’ll be prepared when it comes time to apply.
• Tip: Don’t worry if you’re feeling nervous or intimidated. The school reps are excited about the potential of you joining their programs, so they’re eager to meet you! Plus, meeting them in person is the best way to learn what makes a great application.

Why should I attend?

• Gather information about various program options
• Research a university, college or program you may be interested in attending.
• Talk with further education representatives about their program and career paths.

Not sure what to ask a representative? Here are some ideas:

General

• What do you wish more students would know about your program or the application process?
• Can I follow up with you if I have more questions? What is the best way to reach you?
• Are there any information sessions I should be aware of?

Grades

• What advice can you give to students who are concerned with their GPA?
• Besides my GPA, what else can I do to prepare a strong application?
• Sometimes students experience a term of low marks for various reasons.  Is there an area on your application that provides a space to explain extraordinary circumstances?
• How do I make up prerequisites?
• How do you calculate the GPA?  Is there a minimum GPA versus the reality of those accepted?
• Will the spring/summer course grades be counted towards last year grades?
• When I drop a course and/or withdrawn and/or cancelled, how is this considered?

General Application

• What are some tips you have on selecting references?
• At what stage do references become part of the selection process?  How important is a strong reference?
• What if I don’t have an academic reference?
• Does my academic reference need to be from a subject area that aligns with my grad application?
• How is my extracurricular and volunteer experiences taken into account in my application?
• Do you accept applications after the deadline?

Diversity Recruitment

• Do you have any access strategies that students might want to know?
• What are your diversity recruitment streams?  Can you share the advantages (or disadvantages) of applying through a particular stream?
• Do you have particular resources (ex. webinars, peer conversations) to assist me with my application process?

Internationally-focused Programs

• For professional programs abroad, what are some advice you’d give to students who want to return to Canada? What due diligence should be done?

Employment Opportunities

• What is the employment outlook for this program?
• What kinds of careers do your grads end up doing?
• Are there career services available?

Program Specific

• What’s a program that you wish more students knew about?
• What are some of your most popular programs?
• How is the program structured (classes, projects, research etc.?)
• What is unique about the way the program is run compared to other schools?
• Does your program meet the requirements of the regulary body (for regulated professional programs.)?
• Is there an opportunity for co-ops, placements, or internships as part of this program? What supports are offered?
• What are the benefits of doing a graduate certificate versus a graduate degree?
• Do you have multiple start dates for program(s)?

Are you unsure about your options or suitability for career paths?

• We have career counsellors that can help you navigate the career planning process.
• Check OSCARplus for events, company recruitment sessions, workshops and job and volunteer postings to support your professional development.