University open days: How to make the most of your visit
As you enter your final year of college or sixth form, it’s a good idea to visit the Universities that you are thinking of applying to attend next year as early in the academic year as possible.
The very first thing to do is to create a shortlist of Uni open days you want to go to. You won’t be able to get around to see them all – there are hundreds, so you really need to narrow it down before you take the leap and plan a visit! Whilst most Universities will hold open days throughout the year, visiting early in the academic year can help you understand what kind of course and campus environment will suit you.
If you’re thinking about studying in Lancaster, don’t miss these open days from Lancaster Univerity and Cumbria University.
Lancaster University Open Days -
https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/open-days/undergraduate-open-days/
Cumbria University (Lancaster Campus) Open Days -
https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/events/open-days/lancaster-open-day-1st-october-2022.html
What to bring to an open day?
If you have one, an open day pack – depending on the University they may send you everything you'll need (by post or email) including agenda, parking permit and address/building to go to.
A portable charger - don’t underestimate the amount of power you might need on the day, if you’re planning on taking lots of pictures of the Lancaster University campus and facilities it’s always useful to pack a charger.
Take an extra bag for carrying any prospectuses, documents or items you pick up along the way.
Who should you go to an open day with?
It’s always a good idea to take someone with you to a University open day. Not only can they give you a fresh perspective on the Lancaster university campus, details of the course you’re thinking of taking, the best rooms in lancaster student halls or even the types of extracurricular activities on offer, but they also act as an excellent sounding board.
Parents:
It's pretty standard for students to bring one or both parents, or guardians, to an open day. They will ask questions that you might not necessarily think of, such as campus security and how far the student accommodation is.
Siblings:
If you have an older brother or sister studying at the University of your choice, it’s a great idea to ask them to show you around. They will give you a fresh perspective on student life and city life.
Friends:
It’s never a good idea to go to a specific university just because your friends are, but, if you genuinely have an interest in the same campus, then going together is a great idea.
Take a campus tour
Student ambassadors will be running open day tours. Take the opportunity to join one of these tours. Not only will you see the campus and the places you could be studying, but you might also get a chance to sit in on some lectures and meet professors! Make sure that you ask the ambassadors lots of questions about student life - they will always be honest about their experiences.
Explore the local area
University life isn’t just about the university itself, don’t forget that you will be spending a lot of time in the local area. Make time to visit Lancaster and explore the city. Visit the local coffee shops and cafes, take a trip to the castle or walk along the canal.
Visit ALL of the accommodation options
You will be shown the halls of residence that are part of the University accommodation, but did you know that there are other options for first year students?
You could move into a shared house in the town or even move into our accommodation here at Bailrigg Student Living. Our accommodation is within walking distance of the Health and Innovation Campus at Lancaster University. If you want to take a look around, we will be open and ready to greet you.
