How to get the most out of an Open Day

Going somewhere for the first time can be daunting, especially when it involves a big decision like where you might spend the next three or four years of your life.

Open Days are designed to help you figure out which is the right university for you, so from checking out the facilities and accommodation to speaking to lecturers and other students, it's important to milk every activity on offer.

That's why we've put together this list of must-do activities so you can get the most out of the few hours you'll spend on campus. Do you have any tips from the Open Days you've been to?

1. Get need-to-know course info
If you're still undecided on a subject to study, or just want the fine details to help you make up your mind, get all the answers you need at an Open Day.

2. Meet current students
Get the true picture from the horse’s mouth, so to speak. Current students will be on hand to give you their honest opinions.

3. Get expert finance advice
So there are costs involved in going to university. Detailed and informative finance talks will help you understand fees, funding and scholarships and answer any money-related questions you have.

4. Imagine where you could be living
If you'll be leaving home to go to university, seeing what your new bedroom will look like is essential. So make sure you go on an accommodation tour and start planning where your Justin poster will go.

5. Hear what the big boss has to say
There's no one better to introduce you to the university than the people who keep it running. Start your day with a welcome talk from a representative of the Vice-Chancellor's Office - it's a great overview!

6. Get your hands on the kit
See exciting hands-on demonstrations of key facilities. Some of the things you can see at BCU for example include radio and TV studios, state-of-the-art mock wards, birthing rooms, operating theatres, a Formula Student car workshop, digital and wireless networking labs and computer games studio, mock law courts and crime scenes to solve!

7. Have a look round the city
Have a mooch around. With shops, food, culture and entertainment galore, take some time to explore where you could be living.

8. Prepare your questions
Jot down any key questions you want to ask beforehand and bring them with you, and don't forget to bring something to make notes with. It’s useful to be able to refer back to these when comparing different universities you've visited.

9. Plan your day
There's so much you can do at Open Days, so trying to fit it all in can be a challenge. Consider what's on offer at the Open Day that can help you get the most useful information to help you decide which course to apply for.

Reply 1

BCU Student Rep

Official Rep

And if you're around this Saturday (11 June) and fancy a visit to Birmingham, we've got an Open Day you can come along to and put these tips to practice! More information: www.bcu.ac.uk/june-16