By Sophie Ball
I’ll be honest, Clearing wasn’t part of my original plan when I started to think about university. Like many students, I had a vision of how results day would go and what would come next. I had a firm offer from my first-choice university and thought everything was lined up perfectly. But then results day came, and I didn’t get the grades I needed. My offer was rejected, and my whole plan changed. It was a scary moment because everything felt uncertain, and I wasn’t sure what to do. But it was also the turning point that led me somewhere even better than I expected, Teesside University.
Why I chose Teesside
Teesside had always been on my radar, partly because I live close to campus and I’m familiar with the area. The idea of staying close to home, saving money on travel and having that local support network started to feel like a real advantage. My original plan for university would have involved commuting long distances every day, or even moving out. Choosing Teesside meant I could start uni life more smoothly without that added stress.
I’d heard about clearing from some of my A-Level tutors but I hadn’t given it much thought until after I got my results. So, after a quick search online to look into my options, I made the call. From the first conversation I had with someone through Teesside’s Clearing hotline, I felt reassured. The process was smooth, and the staff were friendly, understanding and genuinely wanted to help. They explained everything clearly and helped me find a course that matched my interests and my career goals. I was accepted onto the BSc Marketing (Hons) course on the same phone call, and that’s when my journey started.
When I visited campus, I noticed the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of community I was looking for in a uni. Everyone I met was down-to-earth and approachable, from the students to the lecturers. One thing that stood out to me was the amount of support on offer, whether its academic help, career advice or wellbeing support. The uncertainty I was feeling after getting my results was quickly disappearing.
My Clearing Advice
If you’re about to go through Clearing or even considering it, here’s my honest advice:
- Don’t panic
Its normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed, especially when plans change. Clearing is just another route to get you where you want to be. Relax, and remember you still have options.
- Be open minded
I hadn’t originally planned to come to Teesside, but being open to new opportunities led me somewhere that suits me even better than my original choice. Just focus on what feels right for you.
- Act quickly but don’t rush
Clearing moves fast, so try and be ready with your grades, UCAS ID and any questions handy. But don’t feel pressured to make a decision without thinking it through.
- Think about the bigger picture
For me, being able to stay close to home made a huge difference. Think about what matters most to you, whether its course structure, finances or support services.
Above all, trust your gut. When I spoke to Teesside during Clearing, I just had a good feeling. Everyone was friendly and genuinely seemed to care. That feeling stuck with me, and now that I’m here, I know that I made the right choice.
Want to find out more about Clearing? Head to tees.ac.uk/clearing
