Darrion Willis, 17, a junior at Thurgood Marshall Academy, has been thinking about college since seventh grade, and took the PSAT two weeks ago.

After finishing a special session of classes yesterday, Willis stopped by the first East of the River College Fair, held at the charter high school in Anacostia. Willis roamed the halls talking to college representatives seated at tables. He left clutching bagfuls of glossy brochures and information booklets.

Lydia's House, a nonprofit group based in Southwest Washington, sponsored the fair in an effort to bring information about higher education directly to students and families. Thurgood Marshall Academy was chosen for its easily accessible location across from the Anacostia Metro.