Breaking Barriers: SLO County's College Night Returns to Tackle Evolving College Admissions Landscape and Boost Local Higher Ed Access

From SAT Changes to Financial Aid Updates: SLO County's College Night Addresses Shifting Trends

San Luis Obispo, CA — The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education (SLOCOE), in collaboration with Cuesta College, and the Community Foundation of SLO County, today announced the relaunch of SLO County's College Night, a pivotal event for local high school students, unlocking valuable insights into higher education opportunities.

Scheduled for Monday, October 30, 2023, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Cuesta College's SLO Campus, College Night will feature representatives from over 45 colleges and universities across California, the United States, and internationally. 

The event offers an unparalleled opportunity for students and families to interact directly with admissions professionals, providing a unique chance to gather information, ask questions, and make informed decisions about their academic futures.

College Night extends beyond traditional college fair offerings. Students can access information about the evolving criteria for college admissions, including changes in admission factors like standardized testing requirements and personal statements. 

The event particularly caters to first-generation college-going students, providing workshops and interactions with university staff on support mechanisms and options. Imminent changes in FAFSA and Cal Dream Act applications slated for December 2023 will also be discussed, providing a timely resource to answer questions and concerns. 

"In a rapidly evolving higher education landscape, the importance of direct interaction with institutions cannot be overstated,” said Aaron Borgeson, Director of Outreach and Enrollment Services at Cuesta College. “This event is one of a kind in the County, allowing students to learn about criteria, find the best fit, and navigate changing admissions factors. With over 45 colleges and universities represented in one location, attendees would otherwise need to travel over 200 miles to find a comparable gathering.”

Among College Night's highlights are workshops covering crucial aspects of college preparation, including creating compelling applications, athletic recruiting, financial aid procedures, and essay writing. Workshops will run every hour, catering to both English and Spanish-speaking attendees.

As part of its commitment to community accessibility, College Night is open to all students and families free of charge. To further facilitate attendance, the event has partnered with RTA, generously offering free bus transportation for attendees on October 30. Students and families across the county can use this service by mentioning they are headed to College Night.

For more information, visit www.collegenightslo.com or contact Geovany Castillo at 805-592-9030 or outreach@cuesta.edu.

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About the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education

The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education (SLOCOE) is committed to ensuring excellent educational opportunities for all students. Through collaboration and innovation, SLOCOE provides leadership, resources, and services to support schools and communities in achieving educational excellence.