OPEN DAY - Putting parents in the picture

Open Day is just as important for parents as it is for the teenagers who are trying to choose the right university.

That's why at the University of Adelaide's Open Day on Sunday 15 August, parents play an important role in both discovering and sharing information about university study.

A special "Information For Parents/Guardians" talk will help parents to better understand the applications process, what the University of Adelaide offers, and how to support their child's transition to university.

"As with the many potential students who come to campus during Open Day, parents have a unique opportunity to explore and experience the University first-hand," said the Manager of the Prospective Students' Office, Karen Pichlmann.

"Choosing a university is not just about choosing the right course - for many students and their parents it's got to be the right course at the right place.

"Open Day will give parents and their children a great feel for the campus, the chance to talk to staff and current students, and to make sure they're comfortable and happy with the environment they're coming to, and where the University of Adelaide can take them in their career," Ms Pichlmann said.

"Each year we see students who are currently in Years 10, 11 and 12 come through the University for Open Day with their parents and guardians. While students in different year groups may have different objectives at Open Day, the overall experience will help them to better understand what university is all about."

Ms Pichlmann said many parents played a key role in helping their children to make decisions about tertiary study, which is why a special talk for parents and guardians is needed.

"It will give parents the chance to ask the questions they want to ask, and it will give them the opportunity to hear from parents who already have students at the University.

"Being able to provide information about how their child might settle into uni, what the support services are for them, and many other aspects of the university experience will be extremely useful for any parents.

"For some parents, there have been many changes to university since they were students; for others, it will be their first experience of being at a university campus. Our role is to help all parents get the information they need," Ms Pichlmann said.

To find out when and where "Information For Parents/Guardians" is being held, see the Talks Timetable.

Story by David Ellis

To attend special talks for parents and students, visit Open Day Sunday 15 August.