Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and attending an open day—whether in person or online—is your best chance to see if a school is the right fit for you. Universities put a lot of effort into these events, giving you access to faculty, students, and key information about programs, campus life, and career opportunities. But too many students attend open days passively, leaving without the insights they need.
To make the most of your experience, you need a plan. Here’s how to ensure you walk away with valuable knowledge that helps you make an informed decision.
1. Research Before You Go
Before stepping onto campus (or logging into a virtual event), take time to research the university. Look at its course offerings, campus facilities, and career opportunities. Each school has strengths and weaknesses—figure out what you want to learn more about.
- What are the entry requirements for your program?
- What facilities are available for your subject (labs, studios, libraries, etc.)?
- Does the university offer study abroad or internship programs?
- How does student life compare to other universities you’re considering?
By having these questions in mind, you’ll avoid wasting time on information that could have been found with a simple Google search.
2. Attend Subject-Specific Sessions
Many open days have dedicated talks for specific programs, where you can hear directly from professors and current students. This is crucial, as the quality of teaching, research opportunities, and resources can vary even within the same university. Pay attention to:
- How passionate and engaged the professors seem
- The types of research or projects students are involved in
- The teaching style—does it sound like a good fit for how you learn?
A great university overall doesn’t necessarily mean it has the best program for your subject, so focus on what matters to you.
3. Take a Campus Tour and Picture Yourself There
If attending in person, explore the campus beyond the official tour. Can you see yourself living there for the next three or four years? Try to visit:
- Student housing (is it modern, safe, and comfortable?)
- The library (is it busy, well-equipped, and open 24/7?)
- Sports and social facilities (do they match your interests?)
If attending online, ask about virtual tours, student life videos, and interactive Q&A sessions to get a feel for the environment.
4. Talk to Current Students
The best way to get honest answers is to talk to students who are already there. Ask them:
- What’s the workload really like?
- Are professors supportive and approachable?
- What do students do for fun?
- What’s one thing they wish they had known before choosing this university?
Current students can provide insights you won’t find in the prospectus. If you’re attending an online event, check if the university has student ambassadors you can email or message on social media.
5. Ask the Right Questions at the Admissions Booth
University representatives are there to help, so take advantage of their knowledge. Here are some key questions to ask:
- How competitive is admission for my course?
- What qualities do successful applicants have?
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- What career support is available, and how successful are graduates in my field?
Having direct answers from admissions officers can clarify your chances and help you tailor your application.
6. Follow Up After the Event
Once the open day is over, don’t just move on to the next school—reflect on your experience. Did the university feel like the right fit? Were there any red flags? If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions or faculty members via email.
If you’re torn between multiple universities, consider attending another open day or webinar to get a second look before making your final choice.
University open days are your best chance to see if a school matches your academic, social, and career goals. By preparing in advance, asking insightful questions, and engaging with students and faculty, you’ll leave with a clearer vision of where you truly belong.
If you need help deciding which universities to visit or how to strengthen your application, MyEduPathways is here to guide you. Contact us today to take control of your university journey and make confident choices about your future.
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