Why I decided to…volunteer at Open Day
Volunteering at Open Days provide excellent opportunities to engage with prospective students and their parents/supporters, to meet colleagues from across the University, and to contribute to some of the largest events hosted on Warwick's campus. It's also a chance to enhance your interpersonal and communication skills, problem-solving skills, and develop team management or leadership skills.
Hear from some of your colleagues, find out why they volunteer and register your availability to support Open Days in June or October.
“I was new to Warwick when I first volunteered at one of our Open Days, and it quickly became a genuinely invaluable experience. It gave me the chance to meet colleagues I wouldn’t usually cross paths with, as well as work closely alongside Warwick students. Since then, I’ve taken part in several Open Days, and each one has taught me something new.
Whether it’s getting a better sense of where everything is on campus, discovering different subjects, or having memorable conversations with prospective students and their families, there’s always something to take away. There’s such a buzz on the day, with staff and students coming together to showcase the very best of Warwick. You also really feel the importance of those interactions – knowing they can genuinely influence someone’s decision – and that collectively we all play a part in sharing what makes Warwick special.
I’d wholeheartedly recommend getting involved. It’s a brilliant opportunity for both personal and professional development, and one I really value.”
Stevie Connoll, Media & Communications Officer
“I became an Open Day volunteer a few years ago when I realised that although it’s voluntary, you either get paid for it or can take time off in lieu. You also get lunch!
Prior to the day itself the Open Day Team hold an online briefing session where they will explain all about what will be happening on the day and what you will need do in the role that you’ve been assigned so when you arrive early on Saturday morning you’re fully prepared.
On Open Day, the atmosphere on campus feels upbeat and there is a buzz with so much going on across the campus. It’s given me the opportunity to work with staff and student ambassadors who I wouldn’t ordinarily meet and I’ve learnt lots about Warwick from them. I’ve worked in different roles each time, from managing the queue for campus tours to chatting to those waiting to look at the accommodation blocks. Together with a team of student ambassadors, we help reassure and answer all sorts of questions such as what’s it like sharing a bathroom with so many people to where has the best nightlife Coventry or Leamington."
"I’ve enjoyed meeting prospective students and their accompanying guests, typically 1200 people will come to view the accommodation on one Open Day, some of whom studied at Warwick themselves and are only too happy to share their stories on the things they got up to when they were studying here. I’ve even spotted some famous faces from TV accompanying their children! Most parents and students have the same concerns about starting University and as a team we try to help allay these worries. The day typically winds up for me at 4pm and I leave with a positive feeling that I’ve played a small part in the decision of those who decide to come to Warwick.”
Vicki Flower, Finance Officer, Politics & International Studies
Feel inspired and want to get involved? Find out more and register your availability to support Open Days in June or October.