Attending talks or lectures is something many people think only happens when you are at university. Listening to an educational talk given by an expert on the topic is not just for students at university, it is for everyone on their educational path. You can attend these free lectures and talks before attending university, while you’re studying and even after you have graduated. Let’s look at the benefits of doing this.

Benefits before starting university

• Introduces you to university-style lectures so you know what to expect.
• Allows you to find out about different subjects before you choose which subject to take at university.
• It’s valuable for your personal statement when you apply for university. 

While at university

• Shows your professors your interest in the subject.
• Gives future employers an idea of your dedication and interest in the field. 
• Helps develop independent thinking and critical thinking skills. These skills are what all future employers are looking for in their employees. 
• Provides different perspectives and resources which you can use as references in your assignments and essays to support your ideas and theories. 
• It’s also an opportunity to learn about completely different subjects from the one you’re studying. Public lectures can give you access to Nobel Laureates, authors, politicians and scientists alike. Notable figures who have given public lectures and talks include Barack Obama, Toni Morrison, Stephen Hawking, and Greta Thunberg. 
• You can learn about the latest research and innovation. For example, Albert Einstein presented his paper on general relativity at a public lecture at the University of Manchester in 1921.
• Opportunity to attend a lecture from top-ranking universities around the world. 
• Talks and lectures provide you with the chance to network with students and academics.