UMD to Host College Access Fair for Spanish-Speaking Families

The University of Maryland, in collaboration with Prince George’s County Public Schools, will host Estudios Universitarios a Su Alcance (A College Education Within Your Reach), a college access fair in Spanish, from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Edward St. John Learning and Teaching Center.

This free bilingual program is supported by JPMorgan Chase & Co. and offers comprehensive information about admissions, financial aid, career prospects and community resources. Registration is requested.

Attendees can expect presentations, workshops, and a fair featuring colleges and career and community resources, as well as a complimentary breakfast (first come, first served).

“Providing information and resources in Spanish ensures that Spanish-speaking families can fully comprehend and engage with the content,” said Gloria Aparicio Blackwell, founder and director of UMD’s Office of Community Engagement. “We are removing language barriers that might otherwise limit their understanding of important information. Offering information in Spanish helps demystify higher education and empowers families to make informed decisions.”

A 2021 U.S. Census Bureau survey estimated that 26% of Prince George’s County Public Schools students speak Spanish at home.

The event is also supported by UMD’s Division of Administration, Division of Academic Affairs, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, and Philip Merrill College of Journalism, as well as the Prince George’s County Board of Education, Telemundo 4 and Centro de Habla Hispana.