A student’s last-minute decision to apply for university through Clearing

When Anna finished her A-levels, she was set on taking a gap year instead of starting higher education. However, as the end of summer approached, she started to feel differently. After reconsidering her options, she decided to apply to Wrexham University through Clearing.

We caught up with her to hear about her last-minute change of heart, and how it’s all worked out since!

1. What is your name?

My name is Anna.

2. What degree had you originally applied for, and at which institution?

I hadn’t originally applied for any degree at all – for me, going to university was a very last-minute decision (the final week of August!) so at the point of applying for clearing, I had no other active applications. 

3. What degree are you now studying at Wrexham University?

I am now studying BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Conservation Science.

4. Why did you enter Clearing?

Upon finishing my A levels, I had decided I was going to have a gap year instead of starting higher education. As the end of the summer approached, I reconsidered my options and decided that I was going to start university that September. Given that deadlines for applications had long passed, my only option at that time was to apply via clearing.

5. What factors made you finally settle on the course you chose?

I always knew that if I ever went to university, it would be to study animals in some capacity. I wanted something with variety; Wrexham’s course had a trilogy of welfare, behaviour and conservation - ideal for a career with animals within any sector that took my interest. I felt the small campus environment meant I’d get the help I needed. I also love how beautiful the University’s Northop campus is!

6. Did you attend a Clearing open day and, if so, how was it?

I attended an open day in late August, to meet the lecturers and visit the campus. Current students couldn’t have given a more glowing review of the course – it felt welcoming, friendly, and exactly what I wanted in terms of the course content. I liked the small campus environment; I knew I wasn’t going to get left behind. It was also very insightful to see what students had done during their degree, and what their options were upon graduating. It was so reassuring to hear that everyone felt they were given the help they needed, and for me, the small campus and class sizes was what influenced my final decision.  

7. Did you find accommodation easily through Clearing?

It was very easy to find accommodation – I was able to apply for Wrexham Student Village Accommodation on the main Wrexham Campus. The accommodation team helped me with my application and gave me advice on getting a room in accommodation as late on in the summer as I did. It was stress and hassle free, and my application was approved very quickly. Within 2 weeks I was moved in!

8. Have you enjoyed your course and time at university so far?

Looking back on my time at university, I have nothing but fond memories and a deep sense of appreciation for the experience. It has been a truly formative period in my life - both academically and personally. I am so thankful that I was able to apply through clearing, meaning I was still able to attend university even with such short notice. My degree was everything I wanted it to be and more – it has not only been fascinating and exciting, but has also set me up for my MSc in September and my career going forwards. Thank you, Wrexham!

Plans can sometimes change, and Clearing is there when they do. For Anna, it was a straightforward way to make a last-minute decision and still start university on time. If you’re thinking about switching plans or skipping the gap year, you’ve still got options!

Come along to our next Open Day to speak to our friendly staff about the opportunities we have available, or head to our Clearing page to get started.