How to get the most out of an Open Day

Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are encouraged to participate in a few Open Days

Most institutional Open Days are held in late July and August (see the Open Day date document). However, you are more than welcome to contact an institution to arrange a visit any time.

What happens on an Open Day?

On Open Day you can visit an institution when it’s at its best. Everyone is there – academics, lecturers, current students, and information officers. More importantly, you can talk with academics, lecturers, and current students about what certain courses are actually like, and what is required to get into them.

Who should attend an Open Day?

Anyone who is considering studying at a tertiary level in the next few years should attend.

Why should you attend an Open Day?

Apart from the opportunity to obtain course information there are many other reasons why attending an Open Day is a good idea:

• You are going to feel more comfortable arriving at a university or TAFE institute on the first day of classes if you have been there before.

• What is really involved in the course or courses you are interested in?

• If you have to move away from home, where are you going to live?

• Will you be happier studying in a large metropolitan institution or a smaller, perhaps rural institution?

• What does the place ‘feel’ like? Is it a bustling environment with lots of activity or a quieter, more relaxed campus set in landscaped grounds?

• How are you going to get there?

Is it close to public transport or should you start saving now for a car? If you don’t know the answers to any of these questions, then you should attend an Open Day!

How to make the best of Open Days To make your Open Day visits fun and informative, here are some pointers:

• Write down a list of questions you would like to ask about particular courses.

• Be there early. Crowds tend to develop as the day progresses.

• On arrival, get a map from a central point and ask for directions to the relevant faculties or schools.

• Ask questions!

• Don’t spend the day collecting printed information only.

Use the opportunity to speak directly with academics before applications close.

• Introduce yourself to selection officers if you feel it is appropriate, but don’t be pushy.

• Check out the residential colleges, if available. After all, it is you that will be living there.

• Walk around the campus. Have a good look! See what sporting facilities and other services are available.

• Enjoy the visit!

Not everyone can attend every Open Day and various Institutions hold their Open Days on the same date! If you can’t attend an Open Day and you are interested in a particular institution, you may visit at other times. If you wish to speak to a particular

person, it is essential to make an appointment first.

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