Nearly 20 graduates from the Class of 2016 returned to Columbia High School on Thursday to share advice about college with current students.

The alumni, who attend colleges such as Cornell, RPI, HVCC and the Crane School of Music, discussed what college is really like. They talked about their college selection process, how college differs from high school and how to balance an academic and social life.

“It’s a good opportunity to hear from fellow students in addition to guidance counselors and parents,” said Columbia school counselor John Evertsen. “I think they take it to heart more.”

The event was sponsored by the Guidance Department.