I remember exactly how it feels to be sitting where you are now. I felt so excited but also unsure about how I should prepare for the next stage of my life. At that time, I knew the university’s reputation was world-class, but I wasn’t sure if Manchester as a city or my accounting course would actually fit me. An Offer Holder Day, therefore, is more than just a campus tour; it is a chance to live like a uni student in advance – walking onto campus, traveling between different teaching buildings, and being surrounded by peers.
As an international student, I didn’t get the chance to attend an Offer Holder Day myself due to the distance. However, based on my experience helping at these events during my time at university, I want to share some tips on how to get the most out of your day to explore not only the University of Manchester, but the city itself.

1. Pay attention to the course talk from the Programme Director
Each course talk is one hour long, and you can attend different talks for any subjects you are interested in. In each talk, several student ambassadors will be at the front of the room to share their actual study experiences and their life in Manchester. You can ask them any questions to help you learn more about the university. Additionally, the Programme Director will discuss the course outline, structure, and assessments to give you a clear idea of your study pathway and how to prepare.

2. Interact with student ambassadors
I believe all student ambassadors are genuinely willing to help you and can easily put themselves in your shoes. I suggest thinking about anything you feel unsure about before you arrive. You can then go through your list of questions with the ambassadors and make the most of their knowledge, as they have experienced the same feelings as you.

3. Talk to your potential peers
There will be many peers standing around you who might potentially be studying in the same lecture rooms as you in the future. Don’t be shy; come say hi to one another, share your stories, and discuss what you can do next to prepare.

4. Take a walking tour
The University of Manchester provides a true campus-like experience. Each building has its own unique features in terms of appearance, name, and history to explore. It is really interesting to walk through the campus and sit in different styles of classrooms. For example, the AMBS structure always makes me feel like I’m in a professional company, while the Engineering Building looks very ‘scientific’ and ‘high-tech’.

5. Don’t miss the fun side of the uni and the city
Lastly, don’t forget to ask about what you can enjoy apart from your studies, such as various societies, vintage sales, and Student Union activities. Manchester is a city full of great food and entertainment. You can find different cafes and brunch spots near AMBS and all along Oxford Road. Manchester city centre is only a 15-minute walk from the university, making it easy for you and your peers to head out and enjoy your time together.

We all know Manchester is a city of ambition and a university of endless opportunity, but it’s the people and the atmosphere that make it feel like home. So, come with plenty of questions, explore every corner of the uni and the city, and don’t be a stranger.

Here is your first step: if you see any student in a purple ambassador shirt, come say hi!

Writen by Zixuan Xie, a current BSc Accounting with IPE student.

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