Should parents talk to current students as well as university staff?
Yes. Speaking with current students can provide everyday information that university staff may not be able to convey in the same way, such as how classes are conducted, the workload from assignments and exams, student life, and how support services are experienced. However, experiences differ by faculty, year, course choices, and individual circumstances, so it is best to speak with more than one student and verify admissions and institutional details through official information.
Key points
- Staff can explain procedures and systems, while current students can describe day-to-day study and campus life.
- Ask specific questions about classes, assignments, commuting, and where students seek help.
- Do not treat one student’s experience as representative; compare several sources.
Things to check
- Student experiences vary by faculty, academic year, course choices, and personal circumstances.
- Check the university’s official information for current admissions and institutional details.