If your goal is to go to university, it is not only important to start thinking about what course youâd like to study, but also at which institution. With so many different options across the country, a university website or prospectuses is a great place to start your research to see what opportunities and specialisms there are. Once youâve whittled down your favourite choices, the next step is to attend an open day and get a feel for the campus firsthand.Â
Nothing compares to meeting staff and students in person, asking questions, and imagining yourself as part of the community. An open day is a real taste of student life. Plus, youâll get to see the lecture rooms, libraries, social spaces and accommodation. Plan Ahead
A successful university open day really begins before you even set foot on campus. Itâs best to register in advance as spaces for talks and tours can fill up quickly, especially for subject-specific talks and accommodation viewings. By signing up as soon as the open day is available to book onto, the better chance youâll have on not missing out on those areas that are important to you.
The process is straightforward, so once youâve registered, take some time to look at the open day schedule and a map, because itâs difficult to anticipate the scale of the campus if you havenât been before. Thereâs a huge amount on offer at an open day, and sometimes talks you didnât even think of, such as workshops on financial support and meeting admissions tutors. Itâs best to have a good balance of activities relevant to your interests, facilities and administration.
By planning, youâll be able to attend knowing that youâve booked in everything on your wish list and have a day that is structured and less intimidating.Â
Also, think about some of the specific questions you would like to ask both staff and students during your time there. Things like:
- For the course, is it mainly lectures, seminars, hands-on learning or a mixture of everything?
-Â Â Â How are students assessed? A combination of essays, exams, or group projects?
-Â Â Â What career guidance and placement opportunities are available?
-Â Â Â Are there options for study abroad?
-Â Â Â What is the standard and cost of accommodation, and is this on or off-site?
Explore the Campus
When the day finally arrives, really open your eyes to whatâs in front of you and what youâd like to get out of the next couple of years. Yes, this is where youâll study, but itâs also where youâll live and socialise as part of the university community.
First on the list of exploring the campus is the academic facilities. Take a good look at the libraries, theatres and laboratories, if relevant, and see if they are modern and equipped enough to meet your needs and learning style. Are there quiet study zones and group working areas to offer flexibility?
Next is accommodation. You donât want to sign up to a place youâll feel uncomfortable in, so check out the rooms, bathrooms, kitchens and communal space. Does it deliver on everything you need to live happily for a few years, especially when looking at varying standards? If your heart is set on London, then The Stay Club is a fantastic option for external student housing as it ticks all the boxes for stylish, secure accommodation that has great transport links.
While facilities matter, the people make the biggest difference. Speaking directly with staff and students during an open day helps you get honest, practical insights and determine whether you feel comfortable and confident in that environment.
Take the time to meet your potential course leaders and lecturers, as theyâre the people who will be guiding you through your educational journey and will be there to inspire, inform and support. Ask about the application process, interviews, teaching methods, module choices and what makes the course unique among other universities.
Also, talk to current students, as theyâll give you a real sense of what life is like both academically and socially. Donât be afraid to ask about workload, nightlife, societies, and how welcoming it is for new students.
Whilst it might seem too soon to start thinking about life after university, itâs worth finding out if the university has strong connections with employers in your field and what placements, internships and career options are available.
Attend Talks and Tours
Campus tours are equally important. While you can wander around on your own, guided tours often highlight details you might miss, like study zones, social spaces, or specialist equipment, as there may be pockets of great assets you may have missed.
Some universities even hold sample lectures and sessions to give you a âday in the life ofâ taste of what itâs like to be a student there. Find out how assessments are handled and what support youâll receive.
Even if youâre certain on one university being your first choice, attend a couple of open days to compare experiences. Weigh up the pros and cons of each and truly reflect on what stood out to you most and left a real impression.
Do you need a bus, train or underground connection? Check to see if transport links are reliable, affordable and easy to use. If you have a car, are there places you can safely park it when at home and studying?
If youâre looking at London universities, The Stay Club offers a base with plenty of amenities on offer. With central locations, modern facilities, and an inclusive international community, it takes the stress out of student living in the capital.
After the Open Day
The visit doesnât end when you leave campus. To make the most of the experience, jot down your first impressions while theyâre still fresh. If itâs quite overwhelming on the day, take notes or pick up additional materials that can help with your decision-making. Plus, you can always email the university with any further questions you have or speak to a friend or family member who attended the open day with you, who may offer some insight. Ultimately, itâs down to you which fit feels right.
Taking the next step to commit yourself to university is a big moment in your adult life. For many, itâs the first time living away from home or even out of the county. Thatâs why university open days are the best way to get a true insight and explore whatâs out there. The world is your oyster, and there are plenty of great universities across the country that all offer something unique for your future career.
London is a hub of activity and possibility with pockets of industries spanning across the capital. The Stay Club is highly recommended as an external accommodation option for students looking for a contemporary and safe place to stay that offers social spaces and access to one of the worldâs most exciting cities whilst studying.
Ready to Join The Stay Club?
Â
Need help? Reach out to us, and we'll be delighted to provide guidance throughout the booking process, ensuring you can make your reservation with confidence.
