How to make the most of Open Days?

Choices can be daunting, especially when it comes to choosing the right university. Making a decision that will affect you for the next three or four years is never going to be easy, but by making this choice an informed one, you can ensure that you make the most out of your university experience. The University of Wolverhampton has written this very informative article for Get Smaart readers which we’re sure will help you make the most of open days.

University prospectuses give you a good insight into university life, but the best way to really get a feel is to experience it for yourself. Open Days give you a great opportunity to visit the universities you are interested in applying to - what you see is often what you get.

With hundreds of universities in the UK, it can be difficult to know where to start. The first thing you should do is make a short-list of universities you are seriously interested in – you may think about factors such as the type of courses on offer, location, but most importantly, consider what’s essential to you.

Once you’ve decided on around three or four to visit, find out when those universities are holding Open Days. At the University of Wolverhampton, we hold university-wide events in June, August, September and November each year. Many of our Academic Schools also hold subject-specific Open Days throughout the year. And if you can’t come to any of the pre-organised dates, we can try and arrange a personal tour to suit you!

While you’re at an Open Day, go on organised tours of facilities, accommodation and campuses – it’s an ideal chance to see exactly where you could be living and studying. Go to talks and presentations – they’re invaluable when it comes to helping you decide. Most importantly, talk to staff in-depth about the courses you’re interested in and chat to those who know first hand what university life is really like – the students.

Think about the kind of atmosphere of the university – is it friendly and welcoming? Are the course tutors helpful and approachable? Is the university investing in modern buildings and equipment? What student support services are available? And finally, can you see yourself here?

We’re looking forward to seeing you at one of our Open Days. To find out more, call the University of Wolverhampton on 01902 32 22 22 or visit our website at www.wlv.ac.uk/opendays

Written for Get Smaart by the University of Wolverhampton