University Open Days - Get Help or Give Advice!

TSR Community Staff

Hello everyone! :hello:

:hello:

After all the researching and visiting universities, getting through the application process, sitting your exams, and packing up your stuff, many of you are finally arriving at university for the first time! :yeah:

:yeah:

Some of you might even be seasoned professional students by now and be embarking on your second or third year of university :cool:

:cool:

For a whole new group of years 12 and 13, meanwhile, it’s just the start of that process and some of you might be feeling overwhelmed as you start planning your open day visits :eek4:

:eek4:

Current university students - if you cast your mind back to your visits to open days, what advice would you give to students currently planning their own? Comment below with your top tips and advice for open day visits :smile:

:smile:

Anything from ‘don’t let your gran loose in the student bar’ to ‘make sure you wear comfy shoes’! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Current year 12s and 13s - what questions do you have about open day visits? Wondering who to take with you? :s-smilie:

:s-smilie:

Confused about what sort of questions you should ask? :confused:

:confused:

Comment below with all your queries and thoughts and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes!

(edited 7 months ago)

Original post by Pwca

Hello everyone! :hello:

:hello:

After all the researching and visiting universities, getting through the application process, sitting your exams, and packing up your stuff, many of you are finally arriving at university for the first time! :yeah:

:yeah:

Some of you might even be seasoned professional students by now and be embarking on your second or third year of university :cool:

:cool:

For a whole new group of years 12 and 13, meanwhile, it’s just the start of that process and some of you might be feeling overwhelmed as you start planning your open day visits :eek4:

:eek4:

Current university students - if you cast your mind back to your visits to open days, what advice would you give to students currently planning their own? Comment below with your top tips and advice for open day visits :smile:

:smile:

Anything from ‘don’t let your gran loose in the student bar’ to ‘make sure you wear comfy shoes’! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Current year 12s and 13s - what questions do you have about open day visits? Wondering who to take with you? :s-smilie:

:s-smilie:

Confused about what sort of questions you should ask? :confused:

:confused:

Comment below with all your queries and thoughts and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes!

Visiting a few open days can add up in costs :eek:

:eek:

, but they're such an excellent way to experience what that university is like first-hand. If possible, should definitely play a big part in the decision-making process for students. My advice would be to see if the university offers any bursary scheme or similar to support with travel costs when attending open days, an opportunity to save some money could mean the difference between visiting more or fewer universities and ensuring you're making the right decision for you. :clap2:

:clap2:

If you aren't able to attend an open day in person, lots of universities now host virtual open events that you can join from the comfort of your home, so definitely check those out too :biggrin:

:biggrin:

University of Plymouth Undergraduate Student Rep

Original post by Pwca

Hello everyone! :hello:

:hello:

After all the researching and visiting universities, getting through the application process, sitting your exams, and packing up your stuff, many of you are finally arriving at university for the first time! :yeah:

:yeah:

Some of you might even be seasoned professional students by now and be embarking on your second or third year of university :cool:

:cool:

For a whole new group of years 12 and 13, meanwhile, it’s just the start of that process and some of you might be feeling overwhelmed as you start planning your open day visits :eek4:

:eek4:

Current university students - if you cast your mind back to your visits to open days, what advice would you give to students currently planning their own? Comment below with your top tips and advice for open day visits :smile:

:smile:

Anything from ‘don’t let your gran loose in the student bar’ to ‘make sure you wear comfy shoes’! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Current year 12s and 13s - what questions do you have about open day visits? Wondering who to take with you? :s-smilie:

:s-smilie:

Confused about what sort of questions you should ask? :confused:

:confused:

Comment below with all your queries and thoughts and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes!

Hey everyone! :smile:

:smile:

Here are my top tips for attending open days!

1) Go to as many as you can! Open days are definitely worth visiting as you can get a good idea of the atmosphere both the university campus and city/location have to offer and often show far more real perspectives than any brochure or website has to offer!

2) Speak to students and staff, even if you don’t have any specific questions! The university’s ambassadors, students, and lecturers will be on hand to talk to you and help with any queries you might have but I would definitely chat to current students about their experience and get them to give you an honest insight into student life at that university! It’s great to get a first-hand account of what studying there is actually like from a real student rather than hearing what the uni has to say!

3) Make sure you have a look round both the campus and the city! Often, prospective students will forget to look around the city itself but it’s also important to have an idea of where you might be living and to get an idea if the location has everything you could want as a student! Does it have good transport links to get around? How about shops/restaurants/entertainment? Have a walk round to get a feel for the area and see if it’s right for you!

All the best to anyone looking round open days in the next few months! Make the most of it and take your time to make the right decision for you! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

- Alfie, University of Plymouth Undergraduate Student Rep :h:

:h:

Original post by University of Plymouth Undergraduate Student Rep

Hey everyone! :smile:

:smile:

Here are my top tips for attending open days!

1) Go to as many as you can! Open days are definitely worth visiting as you can get a good idea of the atmosphere both the university campus and city/location have to offer and often show far more real perspectives than any brochure or website has to offer!

2) Speak to students and staff, even if you don’t have any specific questions! The university’s ambassadors, students, and lecturers will be on hand to talk to you and help with any queries you might have but I would definitely chat to current students about their experience and get them to give you an honest insight into student life at that university! It’s great to get a first-hand account of what studying there is actually like from a real student rather than hearing what the uni has to say!

3) Make sure you have a look round both the campus and the city! Often, prospective students will forget to look around the city itself but it’s also important to have an idea of where you might be living and to get an idea if the location has everything you could want as a student! Does it have good transport links to get around? How about shops/restaurants/entertainment? Have a walk round to get a feel for the area and see if it’s right for you!

All the best to anyone looking round open days in the next few months! Make the most of it and take your time to make the right decision for you! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

- Alfie, University of Plymouth Undergraduate Student Rep :h:

:h:

This is some really good advice, thank you for sharing!

University of Plymouth Undergraduate Student Rep

Original post by CamembertPaws

This is some really good advice, thank you for sharing!

No worries! Does anyone have any other tips they'd share for visiting open days? :biggrin:

:biggrin:

- Alfie, University of Plymouth Undergraduate Student Rep :smile:

:smile:

Clearing and Applications Advisor

If you can’t get to open days at universities that are a long way away then at the very least visit some universities close by. Even if you don’t plan to go to those universities it’s a useful and cost effective way to get some more insight into what open days are like (so when/if you do visit universities further away you are more likely to get the information you want) and what universities are like and what matters to you.

Chester Student

Original post by Pwca

Hello everyone! :hello:

:hello:

After all the researching and visiting universities, getting through the application process, sitting your exams, and packing up your stuff, many of you are finally arriving at university for the first time! :yeah:

:yeah:

Some of you might even be seasoned professional students by now and be embarking on your second or third year of university :cool:

:cool:

For a whole new group of years 12 and 13, meanwhile, it’s just the start of that process and some of you might be feeling overwhelmed as you start planning your open day visits :eek4:

:eek4:

Current university students - if you cast your mind back to your visits to open days, what advice would you give to students currently planning their own? Comment below with your top tips and advice for open day visits :smile:

:smile:

Anything from ‘don’t let your gran loose in the student bar’ to ‘make sure you wear comfy shoes’! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Current year 12s and 13s - what questions do you have about open day visits? Wondering who to take with you? :s-smilie:

:s-smilie:

Confused about what sort of questions you should ask? :confused:

:confused:

Comment below with all your queries and thoughts and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes!

Hey!

What a great idea to share tips for university open days 😊

Whether you have already decided which university you would like to attend or if you are yet to find the perfect fit, attending these events is a great way to gather information and get a feel for what each university has to offer. As someone who has navigated these waters, I'd like to share some tips to help you make the most out of your Open Day experience:

Engage with Ambassadors:
- Don't hesitate to ask about their experiences, both academic and social. Their insights can provide a more authentic perspective on university life.
- Listen to what others on the tours/at the events ask as they might ask questions you may not have thought about or may have forgotten!
- Remember some universities have platforms on their website such as UniBuddy where you can ask current students questions in case you have any further questions after an open day or whenever!

Attend a Variety of Sessions:
- Balance your day by attending a mix of subject-specific talks if they are on offer, information sessions, and campus tours, making sure to look at accommodation options if you want to live on/ near campus, if you are looking to commute ask about transport or parking options!

Bring a Notepad and Pen:
- Jot down your thoughts, important information, and any questions that come to mind. Having a record will help when you're reflecting on your experiences later.

Explore the Surrounding Area:
- Take some time to explore the city or town where the university is located.
- Consider whether the location aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

Connect with Fellow Attendees:
- Have conversations with other prospective students. Hearing different perspectives can be enlightening, and you might make some new friends along the way.

Ask Thoughtful Questions:
- Prepare questions about the course structure, student support, and any concerns you might have. This will not only provide you with information but also demonstrate your genuine interest.

Reflect and Compare:
- After the Open Day, take some time to reflect on your experiences. Compare notes and impressions from different universities to help inform your decision.

Remember, this is your opportunity to explore and gather information. I hope you find the perfect university for you.

Best of luck and enjoy the process!

Warm regards,
Paige- UoC Digital Marketing MSc student

Teesside University

Hi

This is a great idea for a thread! Choosing your university is a big decision – you are going to be spending three, possibly four (or more!) years there. There are lots of things to consider when researching your university options. How far is the campus from the town or city? Where will my lectures be held? What are my course facilities like? Is it easy to get home by public transport? Attending an open day is the best way to get answers to those important questions.

When?
Most universities deliver open days throughout the year, offering you lots of opportunities to attend. You’ll find dates advertised on their websites, so check out which dates work best and book your place. If you need to trek about to a few different universities, can you tick a couple off your list in one go? You can find Teesside’s next open day here.

How?
Prebook train or bus journeys to avoid paying over the odds and check if the train/bus station is within walking distance of the university campus. If you’re travelling by car, can you park at or close to the campus? If you need disabled parking, contact the university beforehand to arrange this.

Before
Prepare a checklist of everything you want to see and everything you need to ask. It’s easy to get swept up in the atmosphere of the day and leave without getting your questions answered – having a checklist will keep you on track. Here's one we've prepared.

Keep an eye on your inbox for your open day guide, which will detail the open day timetable. Some guides might include info on what talks are running and when which is a massive help when planning what you can fit into your day.
Do you need to prebook any campus, facilities or accommodation tours? Some universities ask you to book beforehand, others ask you to book on the day.

If you’re tight on time, what are your priorities? University websites and prospectuses are a great source of information so use the open day to get the deal-breaker info.

On the day
Subject talks are a great way to find out more about the course(s) you’re interested in with academic staff on hand to answer questions afterwards (or before for those eager beavers!). Don’t be afraid to whip out your pen and make notes on the important bits. As well as speaking to academic staff, chat with students. They can give you a real insight into what it’s like to study at university. Pick their brains about accommodation, facilities such as the library or gym, or the activities on offer in the Students’ Union. They were in your shoes not too long ago so will be happy to answer your questions.

Have a look around the local area if you have time – see if you can imagine yourself living there. What’s going on that’s of interest to you? Do you enjoy live music or visiting a comedy club? Are you an outdoorsy person who hikes or takes part in water sports? These are the things that are really going to enhance your student experience.

Every university, course and campus is different. Open days are the best way to inform what you want from your university experience and to help you be confident in making your final decisions.

We hope this is useful.
Hannah – Teesside Uni

Go to several different subject presentations
Because you might find another subject that actually interests you more.

Take photos.
Of presentation slides about important info like the course structure and entry requirements.
And of the Uni itself - its very easy to get confused about facilities etc after you have been to a couple of different Open Days. Then save them somewhere in a folder with the Uni name.

Ask your parent to take notes.
This means you can listen to the whole presentation and not miss bits because you are writing.

Wear comfy shoes.
There will be lots of walking about.

jonathanemptage

Make sure you take time outside of the tours to wonder about the university and if applicable the city to really get a feel for the place I can’t stress how important location is.

Good Afternoon All,

Here are my top tips for attending an Open Day:

Arrive Early:
Arrive a little earlier than the talks that you will be attending so you can have a look around the university.

Course Talks:
Check on the University's website if there will be course talks happening. If so, you will be able to discuss with a professor and student ambassador who teach/ study the course, and ask any relevant questions that you may have.

Accommodation Tours:
Check if there are Accommodation Tours running - this will allow you to witness both the University and the layout of the flats that you may be living in.

Collect freebees:
On Open Days, Universities offer a range of freebees from snacks to prospectuses to tote bags. Feel free to pick them up and enjoy your time!

Explore the local area:
City, University of London is located in the heart of London! Take some time before or after the Open Day to have a look at the area and what surrounds it. This will allow you to look at everything available and see if it works for you.

You can find City, University of Londons Open Days, Campus Tours and relevant events at the following link: https://www.city.ac.uk/news-and-events/events

I hope this helps,
Iris - Politics Student at City, University of London

Teesside University

Original post by Pwca

Hello everyone! :hello:

:hello:

After all the researching and visiting universities, getting through the application process, sitting your exams, and packing up your stuff, many of you are finally arriving at university for the first time! :yeah:

:yeah:

Some of you might even be seasoned professional students by now and be embarking on your second or third year of university :cool:

:cool:

For a whole new group of years 12 and 13, meanwhile, it’s just the start of that process and some of you might be feeling overwhelmed as you start planning your open day visits :eek4:

:eek4:

Current university students - if you cast your mind back to your visits to open days, what advice would you give to students currently planning their own? Comment below with your top tips and advice for open day visits :smile:

:smile:

Anything from ‘don’t let your gran loose in the student bar’ to ‘make sure you wear comfy shoes’! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Current year 12s and 13s - what questions do you have about open day visits? Wondering who to take with you? :s-smilie:

:s-smilie:

Confused about what sort of questions you should ask? :confused:

:confused:

Comment below with all your queries and thoughts and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes!

Hi All,

An open day gives you a chance to really soak in the atmosphere of a university campus and helps you to imagine yourself as part of the uni community. Here are some of the best things to do on an open day:

Subject talks – You can attend talks about specific subjects that you might be interested in. These sessions are normally delivered by an academic lecturer from that subject, and they will tell you all about what the course will be like. Not only that but the subject talks also cover advice on your application including what might be important information on your personal statement or information about the interview process.

Support services – You might want to find out about some of the support services available at the university, such as help for disabled students. Meet the people who offer the help that you might need and take their contact details as you might have more questions before the course starts.

Accommodation – If you are considering moving away you will need to think about your preferences when it comes to choosing accommodation. Seeing the sizes of rooms and social spaces might make it easier to create your shortlist.

Campus/facilities tours – Whether you are studying English and want to have a good look at the Library, or are studying Nursing and want to check out the ward, you will have facilities that are related to your course that you will want to see.

Talk to current students – Current students and student ambassadors are always on hand during open days and they can be a great source of insider information. Ask them about the university experience like the nightlife, where has the best or cheapest food/drink, and what they really think about the university. It’s even better if you can talk to someone on the same course as you.

Thanks,
Emma - Teesside University.

(edited 2 months ago)

Original post by Pwca

Hello everyone! :hello:

:hello:

After all the researching and visiting universities, getting through the application process, sitting your exams, and packing up your stuff, many of you are finally arriving at university for the first time! :yeah:

:yeah:

Some of you might even be seasoned professional students by now and be embarking on your second or third year of university :cool:

:cool:

For a whole new group of years 12 and 13, meanwhile, it’s just the start of that process and some of you might be feeling overwhelmed as you start planning your open day visits :eek4:

:eek4:

Current university students - if you cast your mind back to your visits to open days, what advice would you give to students currently planning their own? Comment below with your top tips and advice for open day visits :smile:

:smile:

Anything from ‘don’t let your gran loose in the student bar’ to ‘make sure you wear comfy shoes’! :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Current year 12s and 13s - what questions do you have about open day visits? Wondering who to take with you? :s-smilie:

:s-smilie:

Confused about what sort of questions you should ask? :confused:

:confused:

Comment below with all your queries and thoughts and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes!

Hey Everyone,

My name is Ridhika, and I am an official rep for Bournemouth University!

Choosing a University can be a process where you take so many factors into considerations. But going to an open day helps you talk to students at the university and visiting the academics for the subject you are interested in and asking them questions about the course, looking at accommodation for the university, looking at the campuses and the town to help you decide!

When I was choosing a university I wanted to be closest to home, near the beach - for those nice spring\summer months, nightlife, I wanted a uni with a campus. Bournemouth is near the New Forest National Park which is nice for walks in countryside or taking photos!

I went to an open day and talked to students at the open day who gave me an insight of student life at BU! I also had the chance to find out more about the course that I was applying for!

Hope this advice helps you making your own university choices

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