Clearing stories: Peace

Applying through Clearing was a last-minute decision for me. I previously chose Engineering because I thought I was sure about what I wanted to do. But then I changed my mind to marketing because I became more interested in social media and I wanted to work in that industry in the future.

Before I made the first call with a Clearing Advisor, I was really nervous and unsure and didn’t know what to expect. Once I called them they were really friendly, made it all really simple and they knew what they were doing, and that made me feel really secure in my choice.

There are so many reasons that people go into clearing, because you might not have got the grades you hoped, if you are unsure about what to study or change your mind and want to live somewhere else or stay closer to home. I’ve learnt it is OK to change your mind – this is your life, and changing my mind was the best decision I have made!

Peace's top-tips

My top tips if you are thinking of changing your course in clearing are:

• Make sure you have your exam results, keep them beside you when you start reaching out to universities
• Be prepared to talk about your experience and why you want to study the course you are asking about. This is important when you are changing your mind, and have been focussed on another course. Let them know why you want to change, and what gets you excited about this subject
• Have a positive attitude and be prepared to talk positively about yourself. Remember many people are in the same position as you, and do not worry. They are here to help you
• Once you get in touch, they will give you personalised advice and all of the options open to you will be simply explained by them. You can phone them well before results day, to get prepared and you can sign up for a clearing support pack too
• Remember there is no pressure, you need to make the right decision for you and your future, so it is absolutely fine to change your mind and explore all of your options!