How to Make the Most of Your Open Day: A Comprehensive Guide for Prospective Students

When it comes to choosing a university or college, Open Days play a pivotal role. They offer a firsthand glimpse into campus life, academic programs, and the overall environment that could become your new home. Attending an Open Day is more than just walking around a campus or sitting through a lecture—it’s about getting a feel for where you could spend the next few years of your life.

To make the most of your Open Day experience, it's essential to go beyond being a passive attendee and become an active participant. Whether it’s your first Open Day or your fifth, this guide will help you plan your visit and come away with valuable insights.

Before the Open Day: Preparation is Key

1. Do Your Research

Before attending any Open Day, spend time researching the institution. Familiarize yourself with the university or college’s courses, campus layout, student facilities, and extracurricular offerings. Visit their official website, follow them on social media, and read through prospectuses. This groundwork will help you narrow down your focus during the visit and allow you to ask more specific, meaningful questions.

Tip: Create a shortlist of courses you’re interested in, along with questions that arise during your research. Keep this list handy during the Open Day.

2. Register Early

Many universities require advance registration for Open Days. By registering early, you’ll secure your spot and receive updates on the day’s schedule, special sessions, or any changes. If the university offers one-on-one sessions or campus tours, book these early as they fill up quickly.

3. Plan Your Day

Most Open Days have a jam-packed schedule filled with presentations, campus tours, departmental visits, and student panels. Review the day’s program and prioritize events that align with your interests. If you’re unsure about your course choices, consider attending a mix of academic talks to explore different fields.

Tip: Map out the locations of your chosen sessions to save time and avoid rushing between venues.

4. Prepare Questions

Prepare a list of questions to ask both academic staff and current students. Here are a few examples:

• What does a typical day look like for a student in this course?
• What kind of support is available for students struggling academically or personally?
• Are there opportunities for internships, placements, or study abroad programs?
• What career support services does the university offer?
• How accessible are faculty members outside of lectures?

These questions will help you get a better sense of the academic culture, support systems, and opportunities available.

On the Open Day: What to Do

1. Attend Course Talks and Departmental Visits

The most crucial part of your Open Day is attending course-specific talks and visiting relevant departments. These sessions are typically led by professors and will give you a clear picture of the curriculum, learning environment, and assessment methods. Use this opportunity to gauge the level of enthusiasm and expertise of the faculty—after all, these are the people who will be teaching you.

During departmental visits, take note of the facilities, such as laboratories, studios, or libraries. Ask about the availability and accessibility of these resources to understand how well-equipped the institution is.

2. Take a Campus Tour

Campus tours are invaluable for getting a feel of the physical space where you’ll be spending a lot of time. Tours are usually led by current students, making them a perfect opportunity to ask informal questions. Pay attention to amenities such as libraries, study spaces, accommodation options, and recreational facilities.

Try to explore the campus on your own as well, beyond the guided tour. Visit the student union, café, or even the gym. See if you can imagine yourself studying, relaxing, or socializing in these areas. Your gut reaction will tell you a lot about whether or not the place feels right.

3. Visit the Accommodation Options

Accommodation can significantly impact your university experience. Most universities will have a few rooms available for viewing. Take note of the size of the rooms, amenities, and proximity to key areas like lecture halls and libraries. Ask about the costs, application process, and any available financial aid or scholarships for housing.

If you have specific preferences, such as quiet accommodations or shared living spaces, bring these up during your visit. The Open Day is the ideal time to clarify any concerns and assess your comfort level with different options.

4. Attend Student Life Panels and Clubs Fairs

Beyond academics, the student life panels and clubs fairs are excellent opportunities to explore extracurricular activities. University is not just about studying—it’s a time for personal growth, making friends, and exploring interests outside the classroom.

Attend sessions or visit booths representing societies, sports clubs, and volunteering groups. Ask current students about their experiences, the time commitment required, and the social atmosphere. Getting involved in extracurriculars can enrich your university experience and help you develop new skills.

5. Chat with Current Students

Current students are one of the best sources of information on campus life. Engage them in conversation and ask about their experiences—both the highlights and the challenges. While official university representatives will naturally want to present the best possible image of the institution, students will provide a more balanced perspective.

Don’t be shy about asking specific questions, such as what they think of the teaching quality, what surprised them the most when they joined, or how they handle the workload. The answers to these questions can be incredibly insightful.

6. Take Notes and Photos

With so much information coming your way, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take notes during presentations and jot down key points or impressions after talking to staff and students. Photos can also be helpful, particularly of accommodation options and campus landmarks, to remind you of the atmosphere.

Tip: If you’re visiting multiple universities, create a comparison sheet where you list the pros and cons of each. This will make it easier to review your experiences when making a final decision.

After the Open Day: Reflect and Follow Up

1. Reflect on Your Experience

After the Open Day, take some time to reflect on your experience. Did the campus feel welcoming? Were the staff and students approachable? Did the courses match your expectations? Consider both the academic and social aspects. Ask yourself whether you can see yourself thriving in that environment.

2. Organize Your Thoughts and Research Further

Review your notes and compare the university with others on your shortlist. If you still have unanswered questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the admissions team via email. Many institutions are happy to connect prospective students with department representatives for further clarification.

3. Reach Out to Admissions and Attend Virtual Sessions

If you couldn’t attend certain sessions during the Open Day or want more details, check if the university offers virtual tours or online Q&A sessions. Following up shows your genuine interest and can help solidify your choice.

4. Make an Informed Decision

Once you’ve attended multiple Open Days and reviewed your notes, take a holistic view of your options. Which university aligns most closely with your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences? Making a pros-and-cons list can help clarify your thoughts.

Remember, choosing a university is a significant decision that will shape your future. Trust your instincts and choose the place that feels like the best fit for you.

Final Thoughts

Open Days are an invaluable part of the university selection process. By preparing ahead of time, actively engaging during the event, and reflecting afterward, you’ll be in a strong position to make an informed decision. Remember, this is your opportunity to look beyond glossy brochures and websites and see the university for what it truly is—a place that could become your home for the next few years. Make the most of it!.