Salome Vergara is looking for a school that satisfies two needs: “I’m looking for a college that has the major I want, neuroscience, and that has an ROTC program,” the senior said. On Tuesday, she was able to speak with schools that span the country – Florida Tech, Purchase College, Springfield College and others – in search of that perfect post-high school spot.

More than 70 colleges, universities and trade schools took part in the 32nd Annual Multicultural College Fair at Poughkeepsie High School Tuesday. Students were able to approach college representatives to discuss programs, pick up brochures and sign up to receive more information.

“For the younger grades, it’s more about exposure and to get them thinking about college,” said Kelly Semexant, the district’s college and workforce readiness counselor. “For the older kids, a lot of them know they really want to go to college, or the program, and it gives them the chance to speak with them. They can ask representatives questions that pertain to them.”

For three hours, students filed in by grade – seniors had the earliest timeslot and freshmen and eighth-grade students came in last – to learn more about opportunities they may have in the future. Local schools, like Dutchess Community College and SUNY New Paltz, were among the busiest tables.

Makayla Hunter stood at an empty table early in the second session surrounded by brochures she picked up and filled out paperwork.

“I already know what colleges I want to go to. I mostly have questions,” the junior said. She’s looking for a school with a journalism program and, through her discussions Tuesday, was able to learn one school’s program may not be as robust as its website indicates. “I’m very social. I want to be a news anchor.”

Jhersayn Mendez has had a hard time finding a school with a culinary program. Semexant intercepted him and directed him to Monroe University in the Bronx, which he said was helpful.

“I’m trying to learn more about cooking,” he said. “I’m trying to open my own restaurant.”

Semexant said Monroe, SUNY Cobleskill and SUNY Delhi are good options for kids seeking culinary training. Prior to Tuesday, she visited with classes and circulated sample questions for the students to look over and a list of schools that would be in attendance, for them to make the most of their discussions with the college representatives.

Throughout the morning, she directed traffic as students with niche areas of interest sought her guidance on which school may offer subjects like marine biology.

Multicultural Club and National Honor Society members provided volunteer assistance.

For English Language Learners, this year’s fair included 10 schools with Spanish-speaking representatives. They were positioned along one wall, making them easy for students to identify. Community Schools’ Gilbert Colon and ELL teachers acted as translators for students wishing to speak with other tables.

Adel Rogers said he was looking for a college with classes in film and photography, as well as an ROTC program. However, college will wait, as the senior plans on joining the Air National Guard for two years after high school “so that I don’t come out with college debt. I’ll have the military pay for it.”