Chicago Scholars hosts students for potential college interviews at Navy Pier

CHICAGO (CBS) -- A lot of high school students are focusing on their next chapter in college, and an event on Tuesday at Navy Pier is hoping to help them build a bridge to their future.

The Chicago Scholars program is hosting its 16th annual Onsite College and Leadership Forum, where more than 600 students will interview with 120 colleges.

Many high schoolers at the forum will be the first in their families to go to college, and the teens in program say it's been helpful to know what to expect.

"Being able to talk to my mentors, my peers, my supervisors, just knowing that I have that support has been really good," said student Lizette Garcia.

"For a lot of these students, they're talented enough to get into these schools, to get into the careers that they want. They just need a little bit of encouragement," said Chicago Scholars alum David Leon.

Not only can students at the forum learn about different schools, they can also sit down for admission interviews.

Some students will be given acceptance letters and financial aid offers on the spot.