Open Day was a blast, and you collected info on numerous study fields, spoke to both lecturers and current students, many of whom are experts in those fields, saw cool demos, listened to interesting talks, got info on student housing, but also saw what the University had to offer in terms of sports, arts & culture, as well as clubs & societies.
But before you move-on and consider Open Day “done and dusted”, here's what to do next to turn your visit into an informed decision.
1. Reflection Time: Take some time (after a day or so) and revisit your notes or scribbles. What resonated with you? Did a specific programme, study field or career pique your interest? Maybe the campus itself had a cool vibe? Note these– they'll be gold when comparing different institutions.
2. Dig Deeper: Websites are great, but Open Days often spark questions. Dive back into the institution's website and social media platforms. Look for specific course details, student life blogs, or even quirky club pages. This will give you a feel for the institution and student culture.
3. Talk it Out: Whom did you speak with? A lecturer, current students or even an alumnus of that course? Remember those conversations! Their insights into workload, faculty, or even the best places to hang on campus can be invaluable. Now's the time to dissect those chats with your friends and family.
4. Pros and Cons List: Feeling overwhelmed by options? Create a simple table! List each institution you visited and jot down the pros and cons – academics, campus life, location, anything that matters to you. This visual comparison does help with fact vs fiction.
5. Don't Be Shy: Open Days are just the beginning. Don't hesitate to reach out to the institution directly. Most have contact options for specific study fields or even general inquiries. Firing off an email with a lingering question shows genuine interest. You could also arrange for a more detailed campus/faculty tour, to obtain more info on your chosen study field and institution. The latter also gives you the option to ask more specific questions and see the campus outside of an institutional event, to help you make your choice.
Bonus Tip: If you haven't already, apply for early admission, using your Gr11 results, if you are currently in Gr12. This can give you peace of mind, so that you can focus on those other memorable moments from your last year of high school.
Remember, choosing the right institution is a personal journey. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process!
Applications to study at Nelson Mandela University are currently open and there is no application fee for SA Citizens. To apply online, use the following link: https://www.mandela.ac.za/Study-at-Mandela/Application/Apply-Undergraduate
We hope to welcome you to Nelson Mandela University in 2025.
