Tips for Making the Most of Open Days At Universities

University open days are essential for understanding campus life.

In this guide, we’ll provide straightforward tips to help you make the most of these events.

From researching universities beforehand to asking questions during campus tours, we’ll give you the tools to navigate open days effectively.

Whether you’re a prospective undergraduate or postgraduate student, our advice will boost your confidence and ensure you get the most out of each visit!

group of students in a university

Research Beforehand

One of the main tips for making the most out of open days is to research ahead of time. While you are planning to visit open days, you will most likely have several options to consider.

This is why it is crucial to do proper research prior to each open day you visit so that you can make the most of your visit. 

You can research more about the student life, the campus facilities, faculty and other resources so you can check them out for yourself. 

Girl wearing yellow shirt studying

Plan Your Day

Some universities have talks and events happening at different times throughout the open day. 

These events are usually related to different programmes, clubs and societies, accommodation and so much more. 

You will be able to access the details of the different events ahead of time, it is good to plan if and when you want to attend these events. 

Planning the day in a book

Ask Questions

You will have a university representative who is guiding you throughout the tour. While you are on the tour is the perfect time to ask questions that you may have. 

These representatives are usually very knowledgeable about student life and you will be able to learn a lot about what you can expect if you are a student there.

You can also directly talk to the students who are present at the university and talk to them about how their experience has been. 

Everyone is usually really helpful when it comes to their willingness to help students since they have also been in your place once, so do not hesitate to ask anything. 

Two students in an open day

Take Notes

It is good practice to take notes as you are attending events and tours. There is a lot of useful information that they will be sharing through the presentations and sessions and by taking notes, you can refer back to them if you need to.

You can also note down features you like and don’t like about different universities as you visit them so that you can use that as a reference while you are trying to finalise your decision 

They also share useful links and important dates that you need to be wary of. So always be sure to take notes throughout the open day. 

Person taking notes during an open day

Visit Student Accommodation 

Among our best open-day tips is to visit the student accommodation in the university city. The tours will show you the university-owned accommodation, but if you are looking for private student accommodation or student houses, then it is a good idea to visit them while you are visiting the place. 

You can evaluate how far each of these student accommodations is from the campus you need to be at, what amenities they offer, shops and bus stops nearby and so much more.

To make the most of the day, be sure to book all your viewings with sufficient time from one another so you can comfortably view the different places. 

2 girls in a student accommodation

Explore The Campus

Even after you are done with your tour, take the time to really explore the campus. See where different buildings are located, and where the cafes are and observe how the place makes you feel. 

You will be surprised with how many interesting things you might find on this campus and that very well may be the make or break at the end. 

Girl holding a book and coffee and smiling

Visit The Department Stands

Even if they don’t host sessions for your desired course, they will likely have a stand where the department representatives will be happy to help you.

Be sure to visit the stands and talk to the people and ask them any questions you may have. You can ask them about the course structure, assessments, exams, classroom size, teaching methods and so much more. 

This is probably where you will be able to find the most relevant information about your course and this is one of our most important open-day trips 

Multiple stands in an event

Explore The City

While you are in the city for the open day, a great tip is to explore the city that you might potentially live in. 

You can visit the city centre, visit local restaurants, shopping centres and more to get an idea of what your life might look like in the city.

If you are into music, art or anything else, you can check if anything related to your hobbies sparks your interest in the new city.

At the end of the day, it is more than just how the campus looks like, it is also about how your life will look like in this city for the next couple of years. 

2 people eating Chinese food with chopsticks

Enjoy The Freebies

The last point in our open-day tips list is to enjoy the freebies!

Although not as serious, there are plenty of freebies like bottles, cubs, and so many others that are given out during open days. So why not take something you like?

Freebies - books at an event

In conclusion, making the most of university open days can significantly impact your decision-making process.

By researching, planning, and actively participating in the activities offered, you gain valuable insights into the academic and social aspects of university life.

Remember to ask questions, take notes, and engage with current students and staff. Reflect on your experiences afterwards to determine which universities align best with your goals and preferences.

Follow us on Instagram @evostudent and let us know if you have any new open-day tips that we missed! 

If you are looking for student accommodation for the next year, then be sure to check out the EVO student’s website and find your next home away from home with ease!

Read Next: The Best Gyms In Nottingham For Students 

 

Table of Contents

Related Posts