Top tips for students ahead of UCAS deadline

A leading UK expert in careers information, advice and guidance, Professor Siobhan Neary, is recommending that young people who are making big decisions about their future should attend as many university Open Days as possible. 

Professor Neary, who leads the University of Derby’s International Centre for Guidance Studies, which is renowned for its education research, particularly in the field of career development and widening access, said:

“This year it is more challenging than ever for young people who are making difficult decisions about their future, so it is important that they take the opportunity to go out and experience Open Days for themselves.

“Open Days provide a fantastic opportunity for those considering applying for university to gain valuable insight into the courses on offer, the amazing research which universities undertake, and the academic community they will be part of.

“Going to university is a huge decision to make and students rightly want to ensure that the money they spend on tuition fees and living costs, as well as the hard work they put into their studies, will result in a rewarding career at the end of it.

“Attending an Open Day gives prospective students a chance to get answers to all their questions – including those focused on career prospects and what’s next after university. They can speak to current students and graduates about their personal experiences and the life-changing impact it has, which can be a helpful factor in the decision-making process."

The University of Derby has produced some top tips for young people to help them get the most out of their Open Day visits:

• Find out about your course – prepare some questions so you can make sure the modules, assessments and study methods are right for you
• Talk to current students and graduates – they are always happy to share their experience and will have advice on lots of aspects of university life
• Explore the area – if you have time, get to know the local area. Pop into the centre and check out what it has to offer
• Interested in sport? Look at the sports facilities and chat to Union of Students representatives about the wide variety of clubs and activities they run – it’s not always competitive and getting involved in sport can be a great way to meet new people when you start
• Visit the accommodation on offer – if you are planning to live away from home, take a tour of the student halls of residence – find out about the costs for different types of accommodation and check how far these are from lectures and shops. You won’t need to decide about accommodation just yet but it’s good to have this in mind
• If you have questions about wellbeing, careers and employability, or finance, talk to the various support services available at the Open Day. They can provide lots of advice on a range of matters
• Enjoy the day – this is an exciting time and a big decision so make the most of the day by soaking up the atmosphere, exploring the University and asking lots of questions

The UCAS deadline is only days away (25 January), and the next University of Derby Open Day is taking place this Saturday 14 January. To book your place visit www.derby.ac.uk/open-days/undergraduate/