Clearing: keeping my options open

Criminology student Maddi explains why waiting to apply to university through Clearing was the right decision for her.

Thinking things through

Truthfully, I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I finished sixth form. I debated full-time jobs and apprenticeships and had considered university, but never found a course that stood out for me. My friends had applied already but I kept looking at all my options.

As Year 13 was coming to an end, I spent a lot of my time with my sixth-form teachers working out what interested me and what I could do next.

In my spare time I had completed some diplomas based around psychology and crime. These were just areas that interested me so I took it upon myself to learn more about them – I hadn’t ever thought about pursuing them as a degree.

We started looking at lots of different degrees that included strands of psychology, criminology, forensics and policing.

I looked at so many different universities all over the country and read in detail the different aspects of each course, and I ended up narrowing it down to two courses – both of which were at ARU.

Why ARU?

The University appealed to me more to begin with as it is a lot closer to home than many of the other universities I looked at.

But also, the Criminology degree at ARU sounded amazing and I just fell in love with each section of the course and became super excited to apply.

Thirdly, I knew some people who had already visited ARU and spoke highly of it. With my friend’s opinions and the amazing course information absorbed, I knew I wanted to apply.

Coming to university through Clearing

Nothing really changes when applying through Clearing. Although you know yourself that you applied a lot later than many others, you still are just the same as everyone around you. You’re there to learn and get a degree – but also have fun! Before I knew it I had an unconditional offer and I was ready to start.

My first year has been incredible, I have met the most amazing friends and I have received the best grades I could’ve wished for. I still cannot believe that this time last year, I had only just thought about possibly coming to university.

I have found myself bloom with confidence and ability that last year I never would have had.

What is Clearing?

Clearing is an opportunity to reconsider your options, and join a university where you can study a subject you're passionate about.

You can apply through Clearing if:

• you didn’t apply before the UCAS deadline
• your grades are different to what you expected
• you’ve only just decided to go to uni
• you’ve changed your mind about what or where you want to study since you originally applied.

Find out more about Clearing at ARU