Fairmont State University Prepares for College Application Week

For one week beginning Oct. 30, students from around the state will have the opportunity to begin their transition from high school to college during College Application Week. 

College Application Week is a statewide program that gives students the tools they need to successfully apply to college. This year, College Application Week runs from Monday, Oct. 30 until Friday, Nov. 3. 

 Opportunities will be available to help high school students apply to Fairmont State, as well as spend time on campus and experience college life. Throughout the week, students will tour Fairmont State’s campus, meet advisors and learn about areas of study. In addition, students will be able to discuss multiple scholarship opportunities. 

“Applying to Fairmont State is the first step in joining the Falcon family,” Interim Vice President of Student Success Alicia Kalka said. “Students are provided a vibrant educational experience with faculty who are experts in their fields. This is so important for our first-generation college students.”

Everyone who submits an application during College Application Week will be eligible to win the latest Fairmont State swag. Drawings will be held daily throughout the week. 

Fairmont State’s participation in the program has become increasingly popular as it is essentially a blueprint for high school students to successfully complete and submit their college applications. 

College Application Week came about in 2014 as the result of a statewide effort to encourage high school students to apply for and attend college. 

“It’s easy to forget how intimidating it can be to apply to college,” Director of Admissions Summer Boggess said. “Most high school students don’t know where to begin. That’s where we help.” 

In 2018, higher education leaders established a goal to have 60 percent of the state’s adult population earn an associate or bachelor’s degree by 2030. The credentials can also be achieved through other postsecondary programs, such as industry-approved certifications or the completion of apprenticeships. 

When the goal was announced, fewer than one-third of West Virginians had any of these credentials. 

The concept behind College Application Week is to remove barriers that deter students from applying to college by facilitating partnerships between high schools and universities. These channels of communication smooth the path for students wishing to attend college. 

“It’s our goal to give students the assistance they need to achieve their dream of a college degree,” Kalka said. “And the first step in achieving this dream is completing our application. Students learn what to expect when we talk with them about the process. We believe that well-informed students start college confident and prepared, making their transition easier.”

Admissions counselors will also travel throughout the state to help students with the application process. “Our admissions counselors are here to help,” Boggess said. “We encourage students to ask about our SOAR scholarship. If they are a senior, they qualify.”

Currently, schools from more than 10 counties have registered to receive in-person support from Fairmont State counselors. “Traveling across the state and beyond provides us the opportunity to assist students directly with the admissions process, answer any questions, and offer guidance,” Kalka said. 

Fairmont State is committed to helping high school students make the leap to college. That commitment continues while they’re students here, when they graduate, and as they take their first steps in their careers. 

College Application Week Schedule Mon., Oct. 30-Fri., Nov. 3

Campus Tours for Families and Individuals

Tours are available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Oct. 30, Nov. 1, and Nov. 3. These tours are scheduled for 11 a.m. on each of these three days. Families or students who would like to learn more about Fairmont State are welcome to join us. The session includes an admissions presentation, campus tour, and the opportunity to have a confidential discussion with an admissions counselor. Those interested can register in advance.

High School Groups: Days on Campus: Oct. 31 and Nov. 2

For two days students will get a first-hand look at college life. Schools from Wheeling Park, Wahama, Salem Upward Bound, Tucker County, Martinsburg, Elkins, Clay County, and Hundred have already registered. Students will learn about programs at Fairmont State in a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged. Representatives from different areas of study will be on hand to offer advice. Students will also get a taste of campus life when they have lunch in one of our dining halls. Campus tours also help students get oriented to Fairmont State’s general layout.

Around the State

Admissions counselors will visit high schools throughout the week to answer students’ questions about the application process. School districts that have registered include those from Berkeley, Doddridge, Jackson, Marion, Monongalia, Nicholas, Pleasants, Roane, and Wood counties. Some Ohio counties have also registered. 

College Application Week is supported by the West Virginia Higher Education PolicyCommission, the West Virginia Community and Technical College System, and College for West Virginia, among others. 

To learn more about College Application Week, visit College Application and Exploration Week | CFWV Connect.