Middle school, high school and community college students are encouraged to attend the fifth annual HBCU Fair this Saturday, where more than 50 historically black colleges and universities will offer information on admissions.

About 2,000 high school students from the region are expected to attend the fair and are welcome to bring copies of their transcripts and resumes to discuss them with admissions counselors. Students will be able to meet with representatives, recruiters and alumni, while workshops on the application process, financial aid, scholarships and personal statement writing will also be offered.

“This free event provides an opportunity for local students to pursue higher education by exposing them to different college application processes and meeting face-to-face with school representatives,” said Councilmember Al Austin who organized the event in partnership with Stepping in the Right Direction, a nonprofit that leads black college tours.

Giveaways and surprises will be held throughout the event, including a giveaway at 1 p.m. for a free trip to attend a black college tour in the spring for students who pre-register.

The 5th Annual HBCU College Fair will take place Saturday, Dec. 1 from 1 to 6 p.m. in the Seaside Room at the Long Beach Convention Center, located at 300 E. Ocean Boulevard. For more information and to pre-register, visit the Eventbrite link here.

Asia Morris is a Long Beach native covering arts and culture for the Long Beach Post. You can reach her @hugelandmass on Twitter and Instagram and at [email protected].