Thinking about returning to education? Whether you're aiming to upskill, pivot your career, or take the next step professionally, choosing the right postgraduate programme is a big decision.
Your choice can play a huge part in your overall experience, so it’s a good idea to do plenty of research before taking the next steps. One of the best ways to make an informed choice is by attending a college Open Evening. Here’s why it’s worth your time:
1. Get the Full Picture on Courses
Courses vary from college to college, even for the same subjects, so find out as much as you can about the course that you’re considering. At an Open Evening, you can:
- Speak directly with lecturers and admissions experts
- Learn about course content, structure and delivery
- Ask about accreditations by professional bodies
This is your chance to dig deeper than a brochure and get the answers you need before committing.
2. Personalised Advice
If you’re not sure which study area and career path is right for you, attend an Open Evening to talk it through with the people who are best placed to assist. Explore the various study options available and get personalised guidance on how you can reach your full potential.
At NCI, we have flexible study options across undergraduate and postgraduate level. Speaking directly to our team directly means you can follow advice that meets you where you are and helps you build a plan for your future.
3. Get to Know the Campus
Use an Open Evening as an opportunity to familiarise yourself with the campus location and your commuting options. While most classes for part-time study take place online, there will be times you need to come to campus for in-person learning activities or to use the library or other facilities. During your visit, you can also ask about the technology and learning resources available to students, as well as other supports such as career services, academic assistance and student wellbeing.
NCI's next Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 11th June. Register here!
4. Connect with Other Prospective Students
You'll meet others who are considering a return to education while attending an Open Evening. Take a moment to connect and share motivations for taking this step. Ask them why they are considering this particular college, if they attended other open events and what their experiences were. Treat this as an opportunity to start building your network before classes even begin.
5. Get a Feel for the Location
This is a chance to get to know the area around the campus by checking how easy it is to get to, what restaurants, cafés and other amenities are nearby and seeing if it feels like a place you would be comfortable. Ask the staff at the Open Evening for their thoughts on this as you'll no doubt hear about the best places to grab lunch or the quickest way to commute to the campus!
6. Trust Your Instincts
Sometimes, it just clicks. The atmosphere of a college can tell you a lot. Ask yourself:
- Do the staff and students seem welcoming?
- Can you picture yourself studying here?
- Does it feel like a good fit for your lifestyle and goals?
Trust your instincts - if you like the general vibe and atmosphere, it's likely that you will feel at home.
If you're thinking of returning to education, attending an open event (online or campus) is an excellent first step. Explore your study options at NCI with our friendly and helpful team of experts and leave with a sense of excitement for what's next. We can't wait to see you there!
