Choosing a Major? Visit an Open House to Explore Your Options
Choosing what to study after high school isn't always easy. With so many programs and career paths to consider, it's normal to feel unsure about which major is right for you. Reading course descriptions online can help, but they don't always give you a clear picture of what studying a particular subject is actually like.
That's where attending an open house can make a difference. It's an opportunity to explore different programs, meet lecturers, ask questions, and get a better sense of the learning environment before making a decision.
In this guide, we'll explore how to make the most of a campus open house, what to look for when comparing programs, and how the experience can help you choose a major that suits your interests and future goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing a Major at an Open House
Attending an open house is more than just collecting brochures. It's a chance to explore your interests, ask questions, and compare different programs before deciding what to study. Here are four ways to make the most of your visit:
Identify Your Strengths and Interests: Before visiting campus, think about the subjects or activities you enjoy most. Do you prefer creative projects, solving technical problems, or understanding how people think and behave?
Speak Directly with Lecturers and Academic Advisors: Take the opportunity to ask about course content, entry requirements, and potential career paths. Hearing directly from the people who teach the programs can help you understand what to expect.
Compare Programs Side by Side: Look at the subjects covered, teaching methods, and practical learning opportunities. Consider whether you prefer hands-on projects, classroom discussions, or a combination of both.
Explore Campus Facilities: Take a look at the classrooms, studios, laboratories, and equipment available. Think about whether these facilities support the type of learning experience you're looking for.
What to Look for When Exploring Different Majors
Each major offers a different learning experience, so it's worth taking a closer look at what each program involves. During an open house, pay attention to the subjects you'll study, the facilities available, and the practical experience you can gain.
To give you a better idea of what to explore, here are three study programs at Raffles Jakarta and some questions worth asking during your visit:
Fashion Design: Interested in fashion, textiles, or creating your own designs? Explore the design studios, take a look at student projects, and ask lecturers about practical assignments, garment construction, and portfolio development.
Visual Communication Design: If you enjoy drawing, storytelling, or creating visual content, find out how the program approaches graphic design, branding, and visual communication. Ask about the creative projects students work on and the skills they'll develop throughout their studies.
Business Administration: Interested in management, entrepreneurship, or how businesses operate? Ask about the subjects covered, practical projects, and opportunities to apply business concepts to real-world situations.
Why Visiting a Campus Matters Before Choosing a Major
Researching universities online is a good place to start, but there's only so much you can learn from a website or brochure. If you're still exploring your options, understanding how to choose an international college in Jakarta can help you identify what matters most before visiting a campus.
Reading student reviews and exploring course information can help you narrow down your options, while attending an open house gives you a better sense of the learning environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can an open house help me if I have no idea which major to choose?
An open house gives you the opportunity to explore different study programs, speak with lecturers and admissions staff, and learn more about potential career paths. Even if you're still unsure what to study, asking questions and comparing your options can help you make a more informed decision.
Can I switch majors after attending an open house or starting classes?
Attending an open house doesn't commit you to a particular major. However, if you've already enrolled, changing programs will depend on the institution's academic policies and admission requirements. It's best to speak with the admissions team to understand your available options before making a decision.
What should I bring to an open house?
Bring a notebook or your phone to take notes, along with a list of questions about the programs you're interested in. If you're considering a creative field, you may also want to bring your portfolio to discuss with the admissions team. Check the event details beforehand to see whether any additional documents are required.
Still unsure which major is right for you? An open house is a great opportunity to explore your options and see what studying at Raffles Jakarta could be like.
Interested in learning more?
Maria Rosliana Integrated Digital Marketing Executive
