In the coming weeks and months, higher education institutions will  be hosting their annual Open Days to help prospective students in their decision-making process about what to study and where.

These Open Days are pivotal moments for prospective students, offering a window into the academic, social, and cultural life of an institution. But many young people attending Open Days don’t really know what to expect or how to approach the experience, which means they won’t reap the full benefit from the opportunity, an education expert says.

“University Open Days are more than just campus tours—they’re opportunities to envision your future and make one of the most important decisions of your life. By attending Open Days at multiple universities, including private institutions, you gain a richer understanding of your options and increase your chances of finding the perfect fit,” says Dr Linda Meyer, MD at IIE Rosebank College.

“Open Days are designed to help students make informed decisions about their higher education journey. It is therefore important to get a broad perspective of the offering in South Africa by attending a number of Open Days, not just at your top-choice university but at multiple institutions”, says Dr Meyer.

THE PURPOSE OF OPEN DAYS

Open Days are immersive experiences hosted by universities to showcase their offerings to prospective students, parents, and guardians. They serve several key purposes:

• Showcasing facilities and programmes: Universities highlight their academic programmes, campus facilities, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities. You might tour state-of-the-art labs, libraries, or student accommodation, giving you a tangible sense of the environment.
• Connecting with faculty and students: Open Days provide direct access to academics and lecturers, current students, and admissions staff, allowing you to ask questions and gauge the institution’s culture and support systems.
• Clarifying the application process: Admissions teams explain entry requirements, deadlines, and financial aid options, providing a clear roadmap of the enrolment process.
• Experiencing campus life: Beyond academics, Open Days offer a glimpse into the social and cultural vibe of the university, from student clubs to food courts.

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING OPEN DAYS

Attending Open Days equips you with insights that brochures or websites can’t fully convey.

“They assist students to make informed decisions, provide networking opportunities, provide clarity on programmes and careers, and help you gain confidence in the path ahead”, Dr Meyer says.

“Experiencing a campus first-hand helps you assess whether it matches your academic and personal needs. Sitting in on a sample lecture and touring the campus can reveal whether you feel at home. Additionally, you can connect with faculty, current students, and other prospective students, building relationships that may prove valuable later.

“In terms of study choices, Open Days often include talks on specific courses, career paths, and graduate outcomes, helping you align your studies with future goals. Visiting a university, including private institutions,can confirm your instincts or highlight red flags, reducing the risk of choosing a place that doesn’t suit you.”

GO PREPARED

To make the most of an Open Day, it is advisable to go prepared with targeted questions. These will help you gather meaningful insights and stand out as an engaged prospective student. Key questions to ask could include:

Academics and programmes: What makes this programme unique compared to similar ones at other universities? What are the class sizes, and how much interaction do students have with lecturers? Is the course industry-aligned and geared to ensure graduates are work-ready?

Career and outcomes: What is the demand for graduates in this field? Is the curriculum future-focused? Does the university offer career services, such as job fairs or alumni networking? Are there partnerships with industries or organisations that could enhance job prospects?

Campus life and support: What support services are available for academic, mental health, or personal challenges? What types of student organisations or extracurricular activities are there? How would you describe the campus culture?

“Every university has a unique culture. Visiting several helps you compare and contrast, ensuring you don’t settle for a choice based on limited exposure,” Dr Meyer says.

“By casting the net wide and gaining as much first-hand insight as possible, you might uncover an institution you hadn’t seriously considered, but find it aligns better with your needs. Comparing factors across institutions clarifies what matters most to you, and can bring your future vision into greater, reality-based focus.”