Feature: Making the Most of a University Visit Day

If you’ve made your university applications but are yet to make a final decision, you’ll probably be attending university Visit Days over the next couple of months. It’s a great opportunity to ask those more in depth questions and get a feel for what it could be like to study somewhere for the next three years. It might seem like a daunting prospect, but there’s no need to feel overwhelmed, St Mary’s University, Twickenham has some top tips on how to make the most out of them. 1. Be Organised Plan your journey in advance so you know where you are going and have a contact at the university in case you need directions. There will be lots to see and do, so make a note of the talks and tours you would like to attend and use our online programme to plan your day. You could also watch course videos and virtual campus tours to familiarise yourself with the campus and the programme you have applied for. 2. Ask Lots of Questions If you’ve applied to a university you should already know a bit about what it has to offer. A Visit Day is a chance to find out specific details and meet your potential lecturers at subject talks and drop-in sessions so prepare some key questions before you arrive. You might like to think about module options, study facilities, assessment methods and career prospects. 3. Speak to Students What better way to find out what it’s really like at a university than speaking with current students? We will have lots of student ambassadors and Students’ Union representatives available during the Visit Day, so be sure to ask about the various aspects of student life including social activities, study facilities, accommodation and the local area. 4. Check out the Accommodation Take some time to look around the various accommodation options available. If you already have a budget in mind, ask which Halls of Residence would be most suitable and be sure to speak to students about what it’s like to live there. The accommodation office will be able to advise on both on and off-campus options, including lodging with local families. 5. Don’t Forget the Small Stuff It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of visiting your potential university, but don’t forget to pack a notepad and pen, wear comfortable clothes (there will be lots of walking!) and if rain is forecast, bring an umbrella! St Mary’s has two remaining Post-Application Visit Days in 2015: Saturday 28^th March, 10am – 4pm Friday 24^th April, 1-4pm If you would like to book a place, you can register online.