CoursesMore and more future students visit the universities that interest them before making a choice. Why is it important to visit the universities that interest you and what should you remember from these open days?
For many students, studying in the UK means leaving their family home and country. You must be certain that the university is the right choice for you before committing to a minimum of three years of study, or even more if you decide to pursue a degree in Scotland for example (4 years of study for bachelor).
Open Days are an ideal way to experience UK university life for the first time. Whether you prefer campus life with nearby residences and lecture halls or a student experience in the big city, these days are made to give you an idea of student life. During an open day, you can follow a guided tour of the university, visit the lecture halls and classrooms, the laboratories, the university residences, the sports facilities and the ‘student union’ (the student association, with a bar, café, shop and information desk).
Visiting the university before making a decision can also save you from being disappointed if you start your year and realize that the place is not what you expected.
Here are our 6 tips to make the most of your open house day:
- Ask someone to accompany you. Open days are often held on weekends, allowing parents or other people to accompany you. Even if it is sometimes useful to have a second opinion, remember it is you who will spend at least three years here and not your parents.
- Find out before. Some universities offer specific days per course. You can normally find a program online and register beforehand to participate in events during the day.
- Take pictures to remind yourself. It’s hard to absorb it all in one day. If you are visiting multiple universities, the photos and ratings will help you make a decision.
- Prepare questions beforehand. Open days are a great opportunity to ask questions to students and teachers. They will be able to give you a more real idea of life there than what you will find in a brochure.
- Visit the accommodation and speak with the students about their experience in the residence halls. Do they recommend residences with a self-catering kitchen or with meals included? It is worth doing some research on the different prices beforehand.
- If the university you are visiting is your second choice, you have to ask yourself the question “Do I really want to study here if I am not accepted for my first choice?
Do not hesitate to contact the university if you cannot attend the open days: most institutions can show you around on another day with a student ‘ambassador’. If you can’t get around, more and more universities are offering online virtual tours.
