Now that Year 13 is quickly approaching, the topic of University is increasingly making an appearance in both my school and home life, prompting me to start researching courses, rankings and open days. I have only attended three so far and still have more to review, yet I’ve already received and noticed a variety of tips and tricks to get the most out of them.
Preparation
Open days are a massively important factor in the process of deciding which University will be the one for you. You’ll be there for three, possibly four years but may only have the chance to visit the campus once, so conducting preparation beforehand will allow you to use the short time you have efficiently.
If you haven’t done so already, the first thing to do is to register yourself online if it is offered. This will provide you with basic information on how to get there and the timings of the day. Some will also offer an online copy of their prospectus which will help you to narrow down your course options and enable you to gather a brief understanding of what the course will entail.
From registering, you will hopefully be able to start planning what you want to attend and when you want to attend them, saving you crucial time and hassle when you arrive. Similarly, after having a look at the prospectus and your course details, you may wish to write down any questions you have so you don’t forget them and have something to discuss when you are there.
The Actual Day
Upon arrival, I would recommend attending any welcome talk they offer as this will provide an insight into the University as a whole and what they have to offer. Often these talks include key statistics related to all aspects of Uni life such as, graduate success figures, extra-curricular activities and the surrounding town as well as others. Not every piece of information may be relevant to you but I believe these talks give a good impression on the way the Universities view themselves and whether that view is you. However, I’d like to point out that it is also a chance for the University to show off and therefore the statistics that are shown to you may not be completely and truly representative of the University and that considering other factors is just as important.
Subject talks
Like welcome talks, these are a vital process of University open days as they provide a deeper insight into the course you are hoping to take, whilst giving you a chance to meet one of the teachers. When attending these, look out for and even note down the modules that the University studies in that subject as they differ between each University and may help you to decide which is most suited for you. Listen out or ask about any study abroad years, industry placement opportunities or trips that are on offer as I believe these are good factors to take note of if you want to get the most out of a degree.
Talking to current students
Whether it is after a subject talk or just walking around the campus, try to talk to some current students during your visit because they are most likely to provide you with an honest answer. I found that talking to students gave me a better insight into the course and what you actually do on them as well as any problems experienced and likes and dislikes. Also don’t just talk to them about subjects and academic topics, ensure that you ask about the social aspect of the University; you will be living there for at least three years so you want to make sure you would feel comfortable there and could relax outside of studying.
Talking to Staff
If you ever have any questions about the University or subject, find members of staff to talk and ask questions as they will help you with any uncertainties. At one of my open days, I spoke to a member of staff about my personal statement and how I could write it about both my desired subject and somewhat contrasting hobby to make it relevant and interesting. They may also help you to decide what course you would be best suited to if you are torn between two or three.
Accommodation Tours
If you are looking to move away for University, having a look at where you could potentially be living is essential to an open day. Many Universities offer a range of rooms, both ensuite and non-ensuite and vary in the numbers sharing facilities. Remember this is where you will retreat after lectures and studying or where you will get ready for nights out and socialising so seeing yourself living in that space is important. Similarly, different accommodations come with different price tags so discuss with your parents about what may be best for you.
The Surrounding town
If you have time available, I would advise you visit the local town seeing as this is where you will most likely hang out with future friends and family when they come to visit. Can you picture yourself living here? Would you enjoy spending your free time there? Are there things to do that interest you?
At home
Once you have returned from the open day, reflect upon it and think about the positives and negatives of that Uni. Maybe, you may wish to make a list so that for future Universities you can compare so that when it comes to the final five, you have an easier system. Research any further information you may have missed or want to know and keep in mind the boundaries required for your course.
By Lindsay Cain
Comments