The Black College Expo is making its return to Houston on Saturday, and many HISD middle and high school students are taking advantage of higher education opportunities days before the big event.

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College recruiters and representatives from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) will be available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday at the Power Center (12401 South Post Oak Road, 77045) to provide students and parents with one-on-one counseling, as well as scholarship and financial aid information. HISD students and parents can attend the event for free.

Students will also have the opportunity to have their official transcript and SAT/ACT scores reviewed by recruiters and have college application fees waived.

“It’s a great event for students who are still undecided on what college they want to attend, or if they’re decided and want to see the school represented in person because they cannot travel to see the campus,” said Trina Harmon-Wright, HISD College Readiness College Success Manager.

This week, representatives from the expo toured middle and high schools across the district to pump up students about their next transition into college. Speakers held open discussions at Sharpstown International School, Fonville Middle School, Davis High School, Scarborough High School, Sterling High School, Wheatley High School , Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy, Yates High School, and Booker T. Washington High School. Students were able to receive information on a range of topics, including how to be successful in college, making it in life against the odds, and balancing college athletics and academics.

Harmon-Wright said she highly encourages students to bring their official transcripts and test scores to the event for the chance to be admitted to college on the spot. In addition, a number of colleges and universities will offer scholarships during the event, valued at up to $140,000.

“If students are still needing finances towards their college experience, they can go there with their SAT and ACT scores and get on-the-spot scholarships, which is amazing,” Harmon-Wright said.

For more information, visit www.thecollegeexpo.org.