Anthea Islam, a student ambassador at Goldsmiths, shares her five top tips for students attending higher education fairs. 

Going to a UCAS fair is a great opportunity to learn about courses, different places to study and a chance to talk to current students or members of staff. However, if you’re unsure of what to expect or how to prepare, check out my 5 top tips! 

1. Be open minded!

Why not talk to one of our student ambassadors?

You may think you know exactly what course you want to study or what university you wish to attend, but a UCAS fair will allow you to learn about universities or courses you might have little information on. Also, if you’re completely unsure of what you want to study, it’ll be a great way to see what’s out there to start off your research.

2. Have a couple of questions in mind!

Exhibitors have a lot of knowledge about their university. If you want to know whether the University offers the societies you want, how the university is inclusive, the facilities you’d like or if you’re just wondering where it is, make sure to ask. Nothing is a silly question!

3. Avoid being in a really large group!

It’s really easy to wander around with all of your friends at a UCAS fair, but if all ten of you are together, you might miss out on conversations with a particular university you wanted to speak to but your friends didn’t! Pairing up with friends who are interested in similar course, locations or types of universities (Campus or City) might be more worthwhile!

4. It’s okay to be a bit nervous

UCAS fairs can have a lot of attendees which may feel a bit overwhelming as some of the spaces are massive and fit lots of people! However, don’t let this put you off, exhibitors will always have time to answer your questions, so it’s easier if you have some ready!

5. Enjoy yourselves!

Researching Universities and finding the right place for you can be really exciting – make the most of being able to ask experts about it and meeting new people!