Geography at University: An Admissions Tutor’s

PerspectiveDr Katie Willis, Department of Geography, Royal Holloway,

University of London (Katie.Willis@rhul.ac.uk)

Choosing a Course

What kind of Geography?

Science Arts

Joint Degree?

Contrasting subjects?

Complementary subjects?

Fieldwork

What kind of assessment?

• Exams• Practical reports• Dissertations• Presentations• Posters• Fieldwork reports

University Facilities

• Accommodation• Sport• Drama• Music• Politics• Clubs & Societies

University Location

Information about courses

• UCAS website

• University websites & prospectuses

• RGS-IBG Guide to UK Geography Departments (see http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Research+and+Higher+Education/Study+Geography/Study+Geography.htm)

• Handbooks/ Guidebooks

Timing

• Check the UCAS deadlines www.ucas.ac.uk

• Do your research in advance

• Draft & redraft your personal statement

• Make sure your teacher/ tutor has enough time to complete the reference

Personal Statement

• This is important as it is a chance to sell yourself.

• What excites you about Geography?

• Explain your course choice

• Include information about other activities e.g. sport, music, paid work BUT do not go into excessive detail.

Filling in the Form

• Make sure you fill in all the relevant boxes

• You do not have to fill in the special needs section, but I would strongly encourage you to do so if it is appropriate.

• Think about presentation & check spelling & grammar.

Interviews

• Not all universities have interviews

• Prepare

• Don’t waffle!

• It’s not a personality contest

Finally

• Be prepared!

• If you don’t know the answer, then ask!

• GOOD LUCK!