When we have a vast and informative website where you can learn all about our courses and even take a virtual tour, how do prospective students actually benefit from visiting the university in person on an Open Day.
As a third-year student at St Mary's, I understand the significance of open days from a personal perspective. It was attending an Open Day that convinced me to choose St Mary's over three years ago. When I was considering St Mary's, I was in a gap year, having left my last university due to health issues. I was uncertain about my future and still needed support.
The Open Day I attended was during Storm Eunice, a true testament to St Mary's resilience and community. Through heavy rain and strong winds, students and staff braved the storm and carried on, continuing to produce a successful event. The storm may have ripped a hole in the O2 arena but still, it was not strong enough to knock down St Mary's spirit or its marquee.
My favourite part of the Open Day was getting to talk to the Wellbeing and Disability Services. They were able to get adjustments in place for the Open Day ahead of time. For example, I was able to get a personal accommodation tour with just an ambassador, my mum, and myself. They also sorted out a place for me to leave my bags so I didn't have to carry heavy bags around with me all day.
The Wellbeing Services not only explained the support available but also took the time to understand me as a person, not just my needs. The same individuals I met that day have been by my side ever since. On move-in day, they remembered me from the Open Day, a clear demonstration of their care and commitment.
Meeting my lecturers and having one-on-one conversations was a unique opportunity. It allowed me to ask questions about the course and get to know the passionate individuals who would be guiding me for the next three years. Our conversations flowed naturally, and we ended up talking for hours. Sharing my passion for the subject with such enthusiastic lecturers left me feeling incredibly inspired and excited to start the course.
It's been a while since that Open Day, so does my experience still hold up? I asked a few prospective students at the October Open Day this year what they thought. One person said, "I love how compact the campus is and how friendly the staff are.” When asked what her favourite part of the day was, she said, "Definitely the library; I love that they cater to different study needs.” I spoke to quite a few different people, a few of whom mentioned how much they loved looking around the sports centre at St Mary's and some talking about how peaceful they found the campus. But what resonated with all of them was their positive interactions with the staff, who they found to be lovely and easy to talk to.
Before I even started university, I had the chance to meet and form personal connections with lecturers and wellbeing staff. This early interaction made my transition to university life at St Mary's remarkably smooth.
By attending an Open Day, engaging in face-to-face conversations with staff, and exploring the campus, you not only witness but also experience first-hand how the spirit of community and wellbeing is deeply ingrained at the heart of St Mary's.