Despite whether you have or have not already attended an Open Day for The University of Manchester, I would encourage you to make the most of the offer-holder day.

Simply put, attending this day was pivotal for me in gaining clarity and choosing the right university.

The difference between an open and offer-holder day is that while the open day offers a broad overview, the offer-holder day tailors its content to your chosen program, offering specific details crucial for an informed final decision. It is also a great chance to get excited about university life!

On my offer-holder day, I travelled up with my mother, although some students do come without parents, and we made our way to the impressive Alliance Manchester Business School. From the moment I set foot in AMBS, it stood out as the most remarkable business school in my university search. Even four years later, I still find it inspiring and feel motivated whenever I study there.

There was a well-planned itinerary for the day consisting of talks with faculty members giving a deeper insight into the academic programme, opportunities to explore the campus and accommodations, Q&A sessions and chance to speak with current students, not forgetting the all-important refreshments! There was also chance for clarification on practical matters such as financial aid, any relevant logistical details, and any extra required support.

A highlight of the day, which I am deeply grateful for, was the emphasis placed on undertaking a placement year. This was not something I had previously considered until this moment and was intending to embark on the 3-year course. However, the University presented the benefits of a placement year to us and assured us we could switch to the 4-year course, if desired. Having completed my placement, I cannot emphasise enough how grateful I am to the university for encouraging this as it has elevated my development and resulted in a graduate job offer.

Please take the opportunity to speak with current students candidly about any questions or concerns you have to get an insight “straight from the horse’s mouth”! I found this part very useful and reassuring. Meeting other prospective students at the offer-holder day meant that I saw familiar faces around campus during my first weeks which is always a comforting feeling.

Accommodation was an important aspect for me; therefore I attended the tours and used this opportunity to ask the student guide questions about each of the accommodations. Following this, I compiled a list of my preferences ready to apply when the time came.

If you have some free time after the schedule for the day, exploring the city is a must. Whether it’s the edgy Northern Quarter or the sophisticated Deansgate and Spinningfields area, taking a walk around the city is essential, considering you’ll likely be relocating to a new place. I can confidently say Manchester is now my favourite city in the UK, offering something for everyone. I don’t think I will now ever leave!

Something that cannot be communicated through words is the general feeling I had whilst attending this offer-holder day. I simply knew this was where I wanted to be.

Choosing your university is a decision that will shape the next stages of your life so ensuring it’s the right fit is essential!

Written by Emily, current BSc Management student at AMBS

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