My Clearing experience: From feeling stressed, to relieved with ARU

Luke decided to apply through Clearing as he changed his mind on his initial university. Now, he is settled studying BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching and Physical Education at our Cambridge campus and has no regrets.

I decided to apply through Clearing because I changed my mind on the university I wanted to go to and UCAS had already automatically deleted my application for ARU (which was my second choice at the time). This made me feel quite worried that I wouldn’t get into any university and honestly made me start to panic, especially as I saw majority of my peers’ selections for universities completed and fully sorted out.

Applying during Clearing

During results day I was heavily supported mainly by my family and close friends as they reassured me with the options that I had to get into ARU. In addition, my college’s careers centre and my tutor at the time also supported me and encouraged me to apply through Clearing. Having this support helped make my decision with choosing ARU and made the process much easier and more relaxing, so I am really grateful for all the support.

My experience when contacting ARU during Clearing was very relieving and simple as I just had to call the university and was assisted step-by-step on how to apply. This was very helpful as the communication was very clear and understandable, which was important for me at the time as I was initially stressed and worried.

Starting at ARU

Once I had accepted my place at ARU, I then began to look at finding accommodation and looking at further interests such as volleyball clubs and teams linked with ARU as this is a strong passion of mine. This made me feel more prepared and excited to start university and enter a new environment at ARU.

Looking back at it now, I would say to someone that is considering clearing to not panic and understand that there are people there to support you, and many other students are experiencing the same process as you so do not feel alone. Clearing is a great opportunity for your career and is definitely something I do not regret doing.