How To Choose The Right University
The most important thing to note when looking at Universities is, it is up to YOU. Every University pleases different people for different reasons so one University; maybe it’s your best friend's favourite, but it may not be yours. Instead, you have to look at plenty of Universities and see what they feel like for you. I know that visiting in person is hard right now because of COVID and therefore do your own research.
Since last September, when I submitted my UCAS application, I have had many people ask me what Universities they should apply to or that they are interested in mine, the only reason being that I applied first. This is the wrong approach and although it is good and useful to ask for opinions, it shouldn't be the only thing that makes you confirm your choice.
Here I have some top tips on the things you may consider and also my favourite things about my 5 Uni choices:
Go to Open Days (this may be virtual during COVID-19)
Open Days are important and give you a great opportunity to experience what it will be like studying at that University. You can also explore the town/city in which you may be living in and this is important to take into consideration. When going to open days you can also have all your questions answered and meet lecturers who will also give you an idea of the course!
Take Notes
Whilst at Open Days, bring a pen and paper to take notes! Note down the pros and cons of the course, the area, the equipment, and anything that you want to consider. Remember, what may be an important factor to you (such as distance from home) may not be an important factor to someone else and that's fine!
Consider EVERYTHING!
Consider EVERYTHING! Like I've said before (and I will keep saying it) you have to consider things that are important to you. For me, the area was a massive factor as I wanted to spend three years In a place I loved and felt comfortable in. Although I applied to London, I didn't want to be in a big city in the end as I had the worry of it feeling too daunting and I also wanted to be relatively close to home so that it can be an easy commute. You may also consider the accommodation, facilities, parking, and other lifestyle factors.
Check Entry Requirements
It is very easy to find a Uni you love and get incredibly excited about it, however, you have to be realistic. Do you have the qualifications they want? Do you need to complete something first in order to be able to apply? I know from experience, lots of Paramedic Science courses want a certain amount of work experience hours so it is important to consider that. Universities are happy for you to call/email them asking the entry requirements. Universities are happy for you to email them asking these questions such as if the course you are studying is accepted or what grades you need. Universities should have this information on their website under the course information, however, sometimes it can be unclear so feel free to ask them directly!
Research
Although I said not to make a decision based on other opinions, it is useful to look at student feedback. Most University websites have an option to talk to students about their experience as well as ratings and awards. I looked at the TEF (Teaching Excellence Framework - ranked Bronze, Silver, and Gold). This wasn’t the biggest factor for me but is interesting how the University succeeds overall as well as your course. Research what modules you will study as some are different from each other! Research the timetable to get a rough idea of what an average week will be etc.