When a pupil reaches Upper Sixth, they must start making crucial decisions about their future, including university choices. This can be particularly challenging, as online information alone often doesn’t provide a full picture of what a university is truly like. One of the best ways to make an informed decision is by attending an open day, where universities welcome prospective students and their families to explore the campus, learn about courses, and experience the environment firsthand.
Last weekend, I visited the University of Exeter in the southwest of England to attend an Engineering course talk. This provided me with valuable insight into how the course is structured and how it progresses over three or four years, depending on the chosen pathway. I also had the opportunity to explore the campus and its facilities, gaining a better understanding of what student life might be like. Accommodation is one of the most significant factors influencing the university experience, so I took the time to visit the halls of residence as well. The right accommodation can shape your university years, often described as some of the best of your life.
In addition to Exeter, I attended open days at the University of Edinburgh and Newcastle University, both of which took place after I had already applied. While some might think visiting after applying is unnecessary, I found it incredibly useful in refining my final choices. Exploring the accommodation, lecture halls, and course modules in person helped me gain a much clearer perspective.
A key factor in choosing a university is also the surrounding environment, and by visiting different locations, I was able to compare their atmospheres and lifestyles. Edinburgh stood out as my personal favourite, with its stunning gothic architecture seamlessly integrated with green spaces. Climbing Arthur’s Seat allowed me to take in the city’s scale, and the view of Edinburgh Castle was breathtaking. The city itself has played a significant role in shaping my decision regarding my firm and insurance choices. Edinburgh and Exeter offer distinctly different university experiences. Edinburgh, as a city university, has its academic buildings and accommodations spread across various locations, creating a more independent, urban lifestyle that feels integrated into adult life. In contrast, Exeter is a campus university, where most accommodation and academic buildings are concentrated in one area. This fosters a close-knit community, making it easy to see familiar faces and significantly reducing commute times to lectures, especially in the first year. Both environments have their advantages, depending on the kind of university experience you’re looking for.
As Newcastle is a large city, I couldn’t visit all the halls of residence in person, so I turned to a virtual tour instead. This proved to be incredibly insightful, offering detailed walkthroughs of accommodations and academic departments that were closed during my visit. The tour, guided by a Newcastle University representative, provided additional information about both the course and student life. An added benefit of virtual tours is their convenience—they save travel time and allow prospective students to gather key information in just an hour.
In conclusion, university open days, whether in person or online, are an invaluable tool for making an informed decision about higher education. They offer a unique opportunity to experience university life beyond brochures and websites, helping students choose where they will spend the next three or four years shaping their future.
