Hundreds of college dreams took off this week at a showcase for overseas higher education institutes.

College and University Fair Bermuda 2000 played host to secondary school students who clamoured for pamphlets and information from 37 Canadian and American universities.

Father of three, Albert Carey, said: "The fair really helps parents and students focus on what lays ahead.

"Prior to that you might have had a brochure but being at the event we get to speak to university administrators and recruiters and that's an advantage -- this is the real thing.'' Coordinators, counsellors, college representatives and students declared the day a success.

Fair organiser, Ron Ancrum, said: "Our programme provides students and their parents a chance to meet recruiters from overseas to hear first hand what their institutions have to offer.'' Mount Saint Agnes students John Kershaw, Martio Trott and Darren Richardson scoured various desks and displays, hunting for information.

All three young men said they were enjoying themselves before diving back into the crowd of college recruiters, admissions experts and guidance counsellors.

Event coordinator Roslyn Marshall said: "It's for the students who have completed courses at the Bermuda College and are looking to further their education aboard.'' A graduate fair was also held, recruiting students and those who returned to the work force after college, and are looking for a post-graduate level education.

Guidance department head at CedarBridge Academy, Winnifred Simmons, said hundreds of students have used the fair to propel themselves into post high school education.

And counsellor Nancy Mattola from CedarBridge said: "This is like candy for the kids -- the counsellors as well. We get access to information and contacts that we wouldn't have been able to get before.

Mrs. Simmons said the event motivates the students to seek out pathways to what they want to do in life.

COLLEGE EDC