1. Geography at University: An Admissions Tutor’s Perspective Dr Katie Willis, Department of Geography, Royal Holloway, University of London (Katie.Willis@rhul.ac.uk)

2. Choosing a Course

3. What kind of Geography? Science Arts

4. Joint Degree? Contrasting subjects? Complementary subjects?

5. Fieldwork

6. What kind of assessment? Exams Practical reports Dissertations Presentations Posters Fieldwork reports

7. University Facilities Accommodation Sport Drama Music Politics Clubs & Societies

8. University Location

9. Information about courses UCAS website University websites & prospectuses RGS-IBG Guide to UK Geography Departments (see http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Research+and+Hig her+Education/Study+Geography/Study+Geogra phy.htm) Handbooks/ Guidebooks

10. Timing Check the UCAS deadlines www.ucas.ac.ukwww.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

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. Interviews Not all universities have interviews Prepare Don’t waffle! It’s not a personality contest

14. Finally Be prepared! If you don’t know the answer, then ask! GOOD LUCK!