The University of Luxembourg has employed a digital alternative to its open day, which was meant to take place on 21 March, by launching the website openday.uni.lu. Since its launch in March, the site has welcomed 16,000 visitors. It offers a virtual tour of the university, as well as options to learn about different courses.
Laura Bianchi, the university's press officer, explained they had also organised live chats, taking place this week, to allow prospective students to ask the questions they might have asked at the physical open day.
On the site, prospective students can see which professor is online at which time. It is easiest to use a computer, although there is an app for smartphones or tablets. Students can also opt to listen in to other questions without asking any of their own.
In this manner, prospective students can learn about 14 bachelor courses and 42 master programmes. Almost all of the university's staff are currently working from home, supplying online content for the courses. Both lecturers and students have quickly adapted to the new methods of working, with some students posting about their experience on Instagram, said Bianchi.
The winter semester will start as planned on 4 September. Bianchi reiterated the importance for prospective students to consider their options and learn about different courses. The site also offers the opportunity to contact the student service for information on applications.
The live chats are also an opportunity to discover new bachelor courses, for example in mathematics, physics, medicine or engineering.
