February 1, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Contact: Irene Racz, Director of Public Affairs, 802-655-9602, x240)

College Pathways conference offered at two sites

The fifth annual College Pathways conference for Vermont high school juniors and their families will be offered in two regions of the state: March 18 at Saint Michael’s College in Colchester and April 8 at Castleton State College in Castleton.

The day-long program, including lunch, is offered free of charge by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC). Families can register online at www.vsac.org, by calling 1-800-798-8722, or by mail or fax using the form contained in brochures provided to Vermont high schools. Participants are encouraged to register early for best site and workshop selection.

The conference gets under way at 8:00 am. Following the welcome, the day continues with a wide range of fun and informative workshops designed to help students and their parents navigate the college selection, application, and financing process. The conference concludes at 3:30 pm.

Each participant can select four workshops to attend, from among 17 topics offered. Some workshops are geared for both students and parents, while others are meant for one group or the other. Topics that have proved popular include surviving standardized tests, applying to college, writing a great admissions essay, and searching for scholarships.

Also offered are two panel discussions. One involves parents who have experience helping a child prepare for college. The other features college admission and financial aid experts answering audience questions.

Prior College Pathways conferences have drawn nearly 1,000 attendees. VSAC expanded the program to two sites last year to improve convenience and accommodate more participants. The program is identical at both sites.

College Pathways is presented by VSAC with media support from WCAX-TV 3 and Clear Channel Radio. For more information, visit www.vsac.org or call 1-800-798-8722.