July 31, 2020 | Young Harris, Ga
In midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, this year the annual Fall Probe College Tour is virtual. While in-person fairs are on hold until the Spring of 2021 organizers and college representatives are still committed to offering the best opportunities for students.
“We realize not having an in-person Fair will be different than in years past, but we are compelled to help Georgia high school students evaluate their college options,” says Clint Hobbs, Probe Executive Director.
Probe is a free annual program of college fairs and guidance counselor workshops, managed by the Georgia Education Articulation Committee (GEAC). The group’s mission is to share information and stimulate interest in post-secondary education for students in Georgia.
Through the aid of virtual technology, Probe strives to present hundreds of colleges from across America to Georgia high school students. This year, instead of being physically present, students will examine their options online.
“Based on the current health situation, having students explore colleges virtually is prudent and we are glad to help with that process,” says Hobbs. “While Probe may look and feel different, we think there are advantages for many students.”
Among those benefits is increased flexibility. Students may browse through videos from a variety of colleges and universities at their leisure. While these samples will feature the climate and culture of each school, those wanting more can opt to participate in moderated college panels. Though the popular Zoom software, sessions will deliver a more interactive experience. “Students and their parents will be able to participate in topical discussions and college previews, have their questions answered through online chat, and connect with colleges they are interested in,” Hobbs continued.
Probe attracts schools from the Southeast, and many from outside the region. Hobbs sees the virtual options this year as a great way for students to sample the programs at lesser known institutions.
“The virtual Probe tour opens doors to even more colleges because time and travel restrictions are eliminated,” says Hobbs. “We encourage students to visit the Probe website often so they can take advantage of schools they might not know about. One of those schools might be the perfect fit.”
Students are invited to register for upcoming sessions and to view archived content starting August 28, 2020. As with the traditional in-person fairs, the tour will continue to be free. Probe hopes to reinstate in-person fairs in Spring of 2021.
Media Contact
Erin Wolf
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404.445.7776, ext 405
About GEAC
The Georgia Education Articulation Committee (GEAC) is organized to stimulate interest in post-secondary education for citizens of Georgia by bringing together students, parents, counselors, administrators, and representatives of nonprofit post-secondary educational institutions including, but not limited to, colleges and vocational-technical schools. GEAC is responsible for organizing annual college tours of Georgia through the Probe.