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Saturday 13.08.16 Saturday Clearing 2016

GET ON THE PHONE How to apply to university or college through Clearing

theguardian.com/clearing 2016 Introduction Contents Opening your A-level results is a scary moment, especially 4 Get set for Clearing if the next three or four years depend on the grades you 5 Student stories: “I knew that all wasn’t lost” get, but don’t worry – if your results are not as expected, all 6 How to use Clearing is not lost! Last year, more than 64,000 students found a 7 What to say on university place through Clearing and this year promises the phone a similar number of opportunities. 9 How to choose your All you need to do is log on to the Ucas website, look new course 11 Student stories: “I was up the courses that interest you and ring the universities surprised at how quick that run them. If you are offered a place over the phone, the process was” go to Ucas Track to confirm you choice. It’s that easy. 13 Sources of funding As Gus Kadare, who went through Clearing last year and is 14 Top tips for a thrifty but fulfilling lifestyle now studying economics at , says: “It’s all 16 Student stories: “After about having a plan B that gets you to where you want to be.” the first call I calmed In this special supplement we give advice and information down and did my best” on everything from choosing your course to doing an 20 Dial another way: how Clearing has embraced interview on Skype to finding your accommodation. As social media Kadare says: “Never be embarrassed to go through Clearing. 22 Videos and pull-no- punches info: how to You will study the same degree as everyone else and you’ll research via social graduate and be proud.” Sarah Jewell 24 My instagram year at Uni 26 Wearing it their way: student fashion 29 Student stories: “I’m over the moon that I came here” 30 Digs dilemmas: a guide to uni accommodation 33 Student stories: “One year on and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been” 35 Volunteering and travel: how to make the most of a gap year 36 My amazing gap year diary 39 Alternatives to Clearing 41 Question time 42 Freshers’ week events 45 Clubs and societies

Editor 48 How to reach the next Sarah Jewell level – a study guide Production editor 50 Survival tips Sam Noble Art editor Sian Everett Picture editors Lucy Johnston, Lynn Chambers Cover creative Sian Everett, Lucy Johnston Cover photography Alma Haser Telephones

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Guide to Clearing 2016 | 3 Clearing facts ‘I knew that all wasn’t lost’ Ucas expects about 30,000 courses to advertise vacancies in Clearing When his A-level results came in under target, Gus Kadare, 22, called his first-choice this year, including those with the highest entry requirements. Last university to see if there was a different route on to his chosen economics course year, more than 37,000 courses were listed. conomics was what I’d Gus Kadare straightforward transition and others – it’s about your own E always wanted to do – I’d says it doesn’t there wasn’t a waiting list. I wasn’t personal journey. A record 49,100 students found had a really funny, matter which worried about accommodation I certainly think Clearing is a places through Clearing after route you take to inspiring teacher at college and that even though I’d switched campus. useful process – it’s all about having missing out on their first offer – up getting a degree: 3% on 2014. In total, a record certainly influenced my decision. ‘You’ll graduate I just thought: “Is it near the uni? a plan B that still gets you to where 64,300 students found places But on the day I didn’t get the alongside Does it have a double bed?” you want to be. I knew that all everybody else’ through Clearing in 2015. A-level grades I needed. It was After a year of a foundation wasn’t lost. devastating, but you just can’t degree, I moved on to an You shouldn’t be embarrassed Clearing isn’t only for people who afford to feel sorry for yourself. undergraduate economics degree. or ashamed to go through Clearing. don’t get the grades for their first I wasn’t at all aware of my I’ve since switched to business You will study the same degree offer; a record 15,200 people applied options but I called the University economics and I enjoy my course as everyone else around you, no to university directly through of Hull straight away. I still wanted – it makes sense to me. Eventually matter how they came to be there, Clearing in 2015 – up 10% on 2014. to go there – it ticked all my boxes - I’d love to study for a master’s in and you’ll graduate alongside and you can’t afford to hang about. development economics. everybody else and be proud. Nineteen of the 24 I was aware places were getting Clearing is like an auction; Although I didn’t do as well in universities used Clearing last year – snapped up quite quickly. everyone in the room my A-levels as I had hoped, that Oxford and Cambridge never do. A woman from the uni explained wants a place at hasn’t held me back. I have the that I could do a foundation degree university. You are ability, I can keep up in class and More than half of students say in business and management – disappointed but I am doing the subject I always Get set for Clearing they’ll use Clearing if they miss their something I didn’t even know was you need to keep wanted to do – because I was given offer. possible. She was so helpful; a clear head and another chance. she was the main driving force focus on what I think it’s important to fail at A time to reassess options Nearly half of those using Clearing behind my decision. I felt very you want out some point in your life. When you are expected to be placed by the reassured, even though they of the process. pick yourself up and get back on Monday after results day (22 Aug). couldn’t confirm my You mustn’t track you see the kind of person Did you fall short of the grades needed for your chosen universities? Source: Ucas /The Student Room place immediately. start comparing you really are. Clearing can find you a new dream place, saysHelena Pozniak It was a very yourself to Interview by Helena Pozniak

his will be a good year to be “Clearing has transformed into a Applying after exams has grown T a student looking to go to ‘Clearing is a respected and important route into in popularity, says Hannah Morrish, university, even if you don’t respected and higher education,” he says, “and education community manager hit the required grades. With fewer important almost all universities use Clearing at online community The Student young people (due to demographic for some of their subjects.” Last Room. “This option has given changes) and no imposed limit on route into year, the Russell Group universities students more time to think about student numbers, universities are higher – a self-selected association of 24 what they want to do,” she says. likely to have many places to fill education’ public research universities in the Meanwhile, a survey by The through Clearing, building on last UK – announced 22,500 courses Student Room shows that more year’s record numbers. were available in July; 19 of those than half of A-level students believe This year, teams of friendly institutions, including Bristol, exam reforms have made them more admissions staff – many of them Exeter, York, Manchester and King’s likely to miss their first choice of recent students – will be on hand College London, used Clearing. university this year. to soothe concerns and suggest For student Maduvanthi courses to the tens of thousands Get in early Pathmanathan, who missed her expected to fall short of their offers The list of vacancies, available from grades last year, it was a simple or have a change of heart. early July on the Ucas website, will case of following advice and going And a record number are also be continually updated this year; through Clearing: she wrote down using Clearing for their initial and students getting their results on her options and was accepted into application to university; the total 18 August will be able to make their four respected universities, before ‘It’s important to fail at some number of students using the choice on Ucas Track from 3pm – two opting for law at the University of point in your life. When you service shot to 64,300 last year, hours earlier than in previous years. Essex. “That week was probably get back on track you see the compared with 38,000 10 years ago, “About half of those using Clearing the most intense I’ve ever had,”

hy: A lamy og r a p hy: r k M ike Pa og r a p hy: kind of person you really are’ t says James Durant, professional will be placed by the Monday after she recalls. “But today I can say t

Pho development executive at Ucas. results day,” says Durant. that I definitely belong here.” p ho

4 | Guide to Clearing 2016 Guide to Clearing 2016 | 5 How to use Clearing Making that call Prepare yourself Spend some time on this. It’s simple, speedy and the offer can be immediate, so You’ll probably speak first to a member of the university’s Have your A-level and GCSE prep yourself with this easy guide. By Tanya Jackson Clearing helpline team. Make a good enough impression results to hand, as well as and you’ll go through to the programme administrator. your personal statement. Re-read it for a confidence Here’s how to wow them boost, then go through it inding a place through with a highlighter to help you F Clearing is much simpler pick out the most relevant than your original Ready to start? points. Have all your questions 5-step written down. university application. The process Simply follow these steps: guide to takes place over the phone, and you Clearing don’t have to wait long for a decision – it often happens during that call. The onus is on you to contact the Find a course university directly without going 1 Go to .com and log in through Ucas. This gives you the to Track. Find your Clearing advantage that you can bypass the number in the ‘My Status’ section and normal filters of entry – you get to make a note of it, along with your talk to a human being, and you personal ID number. Then use the Ucas won’t automatically be dismissed if online search tool to look for course you don’t have the grades. If you can vacancies through Clearing. demonstrate passion for the subject and good knowledge of it, you’re in with a chance. What’s more, if your first-choice courses appear in Clearing, you also 2 have the chance to state your case in person and convince the Make a university that you’re shortlist You may need to worthy of the course, Do your research whittle down the list of even though you fell OK, so Once you’ve found a course you’re interested courses you’re going to hy: getty p hy: Photogra short of the grades. 3 where do in, find out everything you investigate. What did you Go somewhere quiet I start? can about the university. like most about your original Charge up your phone, and Consider visiting if you’re local (and choices? Was it the general find somewhere private. The time permits). If not, make your visit subject or something specific last thing you want is to be a virtual one: find out everything you about the course you interrupted by your little brother can about what existing students think liked? Which of your Pick up the phone barging into the room, or have a new choices appeals about the university through forums It’s time. Don’t dwell on well-meaning parent breathing the most? Send such as thestudentroom.co.uk and do what you didn’t achieve down your neck. Be prepared them through to internet and Facebook searches to see and focus on what you have to take notes on who you have the next round. if any students have created groups for to offer. Try to remember spoken to at each university and their particular class. that universities don’t want their contact details – you will Once you feel you’ve empty places, so they’re likely need these again. learned all you can, on your side. Stay calm go back to your list of and confident. important points and make sure nothing that’s really important to you Make that phone call has been 4 alma haser; tele p hone: wildandwolf.com p hy: Photogra overlooked. It’s time to phone the universities on your shortlist. What to ask in halls or in houseshares? Is that Many universities use Clearing as This call is your preliminary interview, so prepare yourself as though you’re Dos First, ask questions about the course something the university will help a way to open up courses to those going for an important job. and its possible options. After you’ve you with? who have made the decision to and got this important information, ask study after the Ucas deadline. about other issues related to enrolling What not to ask Get a verbal offer don’ts on the course: • “OK, I have a certain number of • “I can’t tell you how upset I am 5 The university may make you a verbal offer on the phone there and then. If there Ucas points: what courses can I get not to be accepted on to my first are several courses you want to apply for, thank them and add it to a new shortlist. • Are there any scholarships or on to?” This just makes you sound choices.” If you didn’t get the Then decide which course you want to accept from your offers, log in to Track again, go to bursaries that Clearing students desperate to study anything. results, you need to show other the ‘Your Choices’ section and click ‘Add Clearing Choice’, along with the course details. Once are eligible for? qualities that make you a worthy you’ve added it, that’s it – the university will confirm it at their end and you’re on your way. • “What’s wrong with this course student: self-pity isn’t one of them. • Is there any accommodation left that it’s ended up in Clearing?” Stay positive!

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 7 Pick your course A world of possibilities

Clearing isn’t a last-chance saloon – the options are many and varied. Tanya Jackson helps you narrow your focus

hen it comes to choosing a W course through Clearing it’s a good idea to focus on the Clearing facets of your original choice that courses were most important to you. Was it the subject itself, the student experience, the university or its location? Did the course offer a year Last year, a record 64,000 people abroad, or the opportunity to work found their university placements in the industry as part of the through Clearing – that’s one in degree? Make a list and number it in 10 students. terms of priority. But don’t think of this as being set in stone. Remember About 30,000 courses are your original criteria, by all means, listed in Clearing when it opens each summer – everything from but don’t be afraid to change them. astrophysics to zoology. Joint honours courses are a good area to explore via Clearing. Take The majority of universities now the heritage degree at Bath Spa use Clearing for a number of their University, which can be combined courses, even those with high entry with its new history of art and requirements. design course. Running since last year, the course uses Clearing A Ucas survey last year showed because it is still building up its that 92% of students on courses reputation. they’d found through Clearing were For Remy Ward, now an English either confident or fairly confident and creative writing student at they’d made the right choice. Liverpool John Moores University, Clearing offered the opportunity You don’t have to be UK citizen for her to change her mind. to use Clearing: more than 5,500 “I realised in mid-August that I students come from elsewhere. didn’t like the university I was at, so I went online and checked my Almost half of those using Clearing options. I found out I could call the will be placed by the Monday after Clearing people at JMU and ask to A-level results day. join first-year English and creative writing,” she says. Clearing not right for you? Around “The course I’m on now is half of 18-year-olds who don’t excellent. All the subject tutors are get into university apply again the following year – and 85% get in. so passionate about what they’re teaching that even if a topic has never interested you before, it can become your favourite.” Prof Brian Cox among its alumni, Sometimes, a course might often recruits students via Clearing. be listed on Clearing because “Our geology and environmental it’s new and yet to build up its sciences courses provide an reputation, or it’s a programme that exciting window into the workings wasn’t finalised at the time Ucas of the natural world,” says Carl registration began. Perhaps the Percival, professor of atmospheric course simply has niche appeal. chemistry and admissions tutor at The ’s the school: “Many of our students school of Earth, atmospheric have no previous experience of All flavours: there’s a course and environmental sciences, a either of these subjects before to suit every world-leading faculty that counts studying with us.” palate in Clearing hy: getty p hy: Photogra

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 9 ‘I was surprised at how quick the process was’

Megan Hogg, 19, shook off her initial riginally, I wanted to go the University of Northampton disappointment to ring an alternative uni. O to Nottingham Trent popped up. University to study I rang the university straight Within minutes she had her new place psychology. But when my results away to see if they still had places. came through, they weren’t I didn’t have any questions about quite up to scratch. I had a B in the course as the information was psychology, a C in English literature all online, and I was familiar with and a D in history, and I needed the the area, as it’s near where I lived, equivalent points to two Bs and a C. in Corby. They asked me what So I rang the university straight my grades were, then said I had a away and asked what my options place to study psychology. I was were. They said I could have a place expecting to be asked a bit more, to study psychology and so I was surprised at how quick educational studies. the process was. I was ready to sell I could have asked if they myself, but I didn’t need to. had another combination that It’s turned out to be a really I was actually interested good move for me. It’s nearer in – such as psychology my parents’ home, which I like, and sociology – as I really as it turns out that I do get quite didn’t want to do educational studies. But it had been very hard to get through and I felt ‘I’d worked so hard at my that their attitude was: “Here’s A-levels and it was hard the offer, tough luck.” So I to deal with the fact that I didn’t ask – I took the hard route and rejected the offer. couldn’t go where I wanted’ After that, I curled up on the sofa with a blanket for a homesick. I’m really happy with while. I felt like I needed the course and all my lecturers. I’m to process everything. I also getting above-average grades did feel really stressed, on the work I’ve done so far. but I shook it off and At the time, I felt a lot of shame started researching at being in Clearing. I worked so on the internet. I hard at my A-levels and it was hard used the Which? to deal with the fact that I hadn’t University got the grades and I couldn’t go website to find where I wanted. But now I know out which there’s no shame in it at all. As long universities had as you take your determination and psychology your work ethic with you, I don’t places, and think it matters where you go. that’s when Interview by Lucy Jolin

Megan Hogg: ‘It’s turned out to be a really good move for me’ hy: attilio fiumarella attilio p hy: Photogra

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 11 Who will you be banking on?

You don’t need a confirmed place on a university course

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There are plenty of sources You should have applied for equipment. You’ll have to hunt for of funding. You just have Bursaries and your loans already, as the deadlines these, so search on sites such as to know where to look for scholarships have passed. Don’t worry if you scholarship‑search.org.uk, or look vary, from didn’t get the course you applied on your university’s website. them, writes Lucy Jolin for, says Mark Kelly of the Student You could be eligible for a thousands to Loans Company. “You don’t hardship fund payment from your £100 or so to need a confirmed place on a uni if you meet certain criteria, o you’ve secured your help you buy course to apply. You can use your such as being a care leaver, having S university place – but how books preferred course and update later a disability, or dependants. Care are you going to fund it? if it changes.” leavers can also apply for a £2,000 Unless you’re lucky enough to be You’ll have to start repaying your bursary from their local authority. able to draw on the Bank of Mum loan the April after you graduate if There are plenty of opportunities and Dad, you’re likely to need a you are earning over the repayment to earn while you learn, says Robert tuition fees loan to cover your threshold. “Repayments will be Fowler, a student money advice studies and a maintenance loan to taken from your salary directly by and rights team coordinator at help fund your living costs. your employer and you will repay the University of . “We have Tuition fee loans don’t depend 9% of your earnings above the a student employment agency, on your parents’ income. However, repayment threshold,” Kelly says. which matches students needing maintenance loan amounts are “Students in England and Wales will employment with local companies. dependent on how much your repay once earning over £21,000; in There are also a lot of opportunities parents or your partner earns, so you Northern Ireland it’s £17,495.” within the university, such as may need them to help support you personal assistants or note-takers financially during your time at uni. Other sources of funding for other students, or student The policies around funding are But there are more sources of mentors for open days.” different depending on whether you finance available, such as bursaries, If you’ve already worked for live in England, Wales, Northern scholarships and other loans. a big chain part-time, such as a Ireland or Scotland, so make sure These vary hugely, supermarket, you could ask about you check what applies to you. from scholarships transferring to your university town Residents of Scotland have worth thousands to for term time, or carry on working their fees paid by the £100 or so to help you in the holidays if you’d prefer not to Scottish government. buy books or computer juggle work and university.

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 13 Seek out cheap supermarkets such as Aldi or Lidl, and use How 3 blogs such as Jack Monroe’s 5 much do 1 cookingonabootstrap.com I get? for great budget recipes 9 Don’t buy books: Become a dedicated discounter: use the library, Maintenance and tuition fee loans Savethestudent.org has a great Google Scholar Look for directory listing hundreds and Google Books bargains in English students are eligible for a tuition fee loan of up of offers to access books Never buy your your local area to £9,000 per academic year at a standard university, and journals own lunch or on eBay or £6,000 at a private university or college. For part-time coffee –make 7 students, the maximum is £6,750. for saving money your own There are plenty of deals If you’re living at home, you can get a maintenance loan of up to £6,904. Living away from home gets you up to and money-saving ideas £8,200, unless you’re living away from home in London, out there. Lucy Jolin in which case it’s up to £10,702. For a year of a UK course offers a few suggestions 8 studying abroad, the maximum is £9,391.

The amount of maintenance loan you get will depend Double check that on your parent’s income (if you’re under 25 and live you’re not paying too at home) or your partner’s (if you’re over 25 and live 2 much tax. If you earn together). There are exceptional circumstances, however, 6 less than £10,600 a such as having no living parents. Use the student finance year, you shouldn’t be 4 10 calculator at gov.uk to work out how much you could get. Learn to budget, and Forget paying paying any remember that what for delivery: looks like a massive If you really need to have an overdraft, only ever buy Have fun for free: visit Amounts for maintenance and tuition fee loans are maintenance grant make sure it’s 0% interest and never from sites moneysavingexpert.com/deals/ different if you’re resident in Wales, Scotland or N Ireland. has got to pay for go over your limit, or you’ll get charged that offer click free-uk-festivals to find out all the

hy: alamy, getty alamy, p hy: Photogra essentials first and collect free festivals in your area A new path: Sarah Loftus and mum Paula reassessed priorities via Clearing

f I hadn’t gone through universities – and don’t be put off she researched which universities I Clearing I wouldn’t have by the busy lines either. ‘Everyone had psychology places in Clearing ‘I believe known about courses in We looked at universities with I spoke to before results day and made a note social psychology and I wouldn’t be the best reputation for psychology was really of their telephone numbers. having such an amazing time here and my mother found social nice. Try not I do believe that things happen things happen at Loughborough. The student life psychology, which really appealed for a reason. I am sure Sarah is is incredible, the sports facilities to me. Only three had accreditation to be afraid much happier at Loughborough are fantastic and the lecturers and from the British Psychological of calling than she would have been with her for a reason’ moderators are always helpful and Society for their social psychology universities’ initial choices. The course suits her willing to give advice and feedback. degrees. One was Loughborough, better and she has got involved in Sometimes I hesitate to tell which also has a brilliant reputation so many things that she was voted people I came here via Clearing for sport – and I’m quite sporty. We Fresher of the Year in her hall. Sarah Loftus and family were waiting on because there is still a bit of a stigma visited the next day and I loved the Maybe we should have looked a remarked paper when they decided to attached. But there shouldn’t be. campus and the people we met. at a wider group of universities and see what options Clearing could offer her Almost all universities have places courses in the first place, instead in Clearing. I ended up with five of being focused on universities at offers after just a few hours, all from arah was upset with her the top of the rankings, but Clearing very good universities. S results and it made it worse proved a very reaffirming experience When I made my first Clearing that she was surrounded at for Sarah – for her feelings, her self- call I was completely panicked, but the school by people whooping confidence and her self-worth. then I calmed down and focused on with joy. After the A-level exams After the initial rejection, which doing a good interview and finding Sarah felt she might not have done really devastated her, she ended out about the courses. well enough to get the grades she up with offers to study at five Everyone I spoke to was really needed to study psychology at her extremely good universities. nice. Try not to be afraid of calling first choice and her insurance, so Interview by Liz Lightfoot d Severn Davi p hy: Photogra

16 | Guide to Clearing 2016 Guide to Clearing 2016 | 17 Dial another way: how Clearing embraced social media

Online chats, Skype, t used to be that would-be Makhoul, pro-vice Twitter, Facebook – they I students would rush to the at Birmingham City University, phones to try and find a which plans to use social media can all spare you the university place through Clearing. again this year. pain of those endless But now, as savvy universities wise Universities are also investing engaged tones, says up to the fact that millennials are in other innovative ways to Suzanne Bearne digital natives, you can turn to grab students’ attention during social media, online chat and Clearing. In a nod to the soaring Skype to land the course you want. popularity of mobile dating app “Students can often feel too Tinder, the stressed to talk about course last year launched “Match Made options over the phone and lines in Salford”, an app enabling get busy,” says Jack Wallington, prospective students to swipe community director at The Student left or right when presented with Room. “There’s now ways students potential courses. “Over 10,000 can swerve being on hold and get potential students used the app on an instant response on whether results day,” says Hannah Burchell, The offer’s in the post there is a place for them.” assistant director of marketing Clearing hotlines can be and recruitment at the University frantically busy – so head to the of Salford. The university will be Rumbi Tauro, 19, used Facebook to contact Birmingham City University university’s website to see if they using the app again this year. offer a live chat facility through There’s a wealth of social about the media and communications (music industries) course listed which you can ask staff about media to tap into to get a sense on Clearing. Within minutes, they were interviewing her over the phone securing a place. Alternatively, of what student life is like at the visit their social media pages – institutions you’re considering. they may be allowing prospective Universities post everything from ike many students on the same message via Facebook,” students to direct-message them club match results to the opening L results day, Rumbi Tauro ‘I’m not sure recalls Tauro. about places. of new faculties on platforms was frantically trying to get I would have “Ten minutes later they Last year, Birmingham City such as Instagram and Facebook. through to her chosen university, got on the responded on Facebook thanking University became the first Student community websites such but found herself held in a long course if they me for getting in touch, and asked university to make offers to as The Student Room can also be phone queue. Eager to land a place me a few questions. Then they rang students through Facebook and a useul source of unvarnished on the Media and Communications hadn’t [taken me on the phone and I was offered a Twitter. Students were asked to info, as well as offering dedicated (Music Industries) course at social media place on the course.” send a private message including university guides and information Birmingham City University (BCU), inquiries]’ Tauro feels applying through their name, contact details, on accommodation providers. Tauro headed to the university’s social media has changed her life. number of Ucas points and the And if you really want to Twitter page to see if she could “I’m not sure I would have got on course they were interested in to immerse yourself in what life is contact them there. On it was a the course I wanted if they hadn’t either of the social networks. “This like at your chosen university, message from BCU: the phone had that.” innovation was about reflecting seek out a virtual tour of the hotline was busy and prospective Now at the end of her first year, the reality of where younger campuses, learning facilities and students should contact them Tauro feels she made the right choice Your future audiences go for information or to accommodation. By the time you directly through private messages with BCU. “I love life in Birmingham in your hands: communicate with people quickly physically make the move you on Twitter and Facebook. and the course I am doing is very smartphones help make Clearing – especially when confronted by an could be a virtual expert on your “I quickly sent them a message on interactive,” she says. “We get to a breeze engaged hotline,” says Prof Bashir new home town. Twitter with my name and mobile do interesting assignments, such number, my Ucas points and the as setting up a record label and

hy: getty p hy: Photogra course I was interested in, then sent hosting events.” SB

20 | Guide to Clearing 2016 Guide to Clearing 2016 | 21 Social media Straight from the horse’s mouth Tap into universities’ social media networks to help choose your digs, sniff out the best societies and pre-meet your friends-to-be, says Suzanne Bearne

efore Sophie Dishman even started B her social work degree at the , she was tapping into her uni’s dedicated social media groups. “The uni had Facebook groups for chance somebody will have done a guided freshers and for students who were staying in tour of their halls, including information you accommodation. I used both to meet a lot of won’t get on an official tour. It’ll give you a real new people before I started, including two of feel of where you may end up living.” my flatmates – so it wasn’t too awkward when On the academic side, many unis have I moved in,” says Dishman. Facebook groups for halls, WhatsApp Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat groups for courses and LinkedIn groups to or Instagram, social media is a means to discuss modules. “Some lecturers are open discovery, not only once you arrive at to connecting on LinkedIn, or have Twitter university – when you can head up societies, profiles to follow that give you a flavour of keep in touch with family and even run what your course will be like when you start,” protests via your profile – but before you even says Horne. “We have lecturers at Newcastle choose which university you’ll be going to. who run lecture roundups and revision Q&As Matt Horne, digital marketing and social through Twitter, which you can eavesdrop on media officer at , says to get a feel for course content.” ‘YouTube students can get a head start on which However, there’s a word of advice to heed can give you societies to join by checking out their regarding oversharing on social media. “Once a real feel Instagram and Facebook feeds, rather than images are out there, even on private channels, Social media is a of where you waiting for the freshers’ fair. It can help they are out of your control, so it’s sensible with accommodation choices too, he adds: not to share anything that you wouldn’t want means to discovery may end even before you “Search YouTube for your university and to become public later,” says Rhiain Temple, choose your up living’ ‘accommodation tour’, and there’s a good getty p hy: Photogra editor at social media agency We Are Social. university

which was cool,” he says. “I was in a holiday Video call saves holiday ‘I had a Skype camp on the coast near Pula [in Croatia], interview so I had my interview with the head of the Philip Bailey managed to secured his from a department as I sat in the on-site restaurant. place from Croatian Thankfully, I passed the interview. It was good to know I had somewhere to study.” a resort on the Croatian coast holiday camp In the run-up to getting on the course, with the Bailey also used the university’s live chat department facility to find out anything he wanted to Philip Bailey, now in his first year on the head’ know. “I preferred to use that as it was more University of Greenwich’s BA in landscape casual and easier than ringing up and waiting architecture, was on a road trip to Croatia on the phone.” when he received an email from the He took a “long-winded route” to University of Greenwich asking to see his Greenwich, he admits, quitting Coventry portfolio. “I remember being in the back of the University when he failed a module on the car trying to organise it all and send it over,” architectural technology course he was says Bailey, who had applied through Clearing studying. It was then that he found his true to study at the university. vocation – gardening. “I really got into it after Liking his work, the university asked for a getting a job looking after the lawns at Clare face-to-face interview the following week, but College, Cambridge.” It was this newfound Bailey wasn’t due back in the UK for a fortnight interest that spurred Bailey on to apply to the or so. “They suggested a Skype interview, University of Greenwich last year. SB Diary of Fashion and beauty (particularly through blogging) are my escape from the stresses of exams and coursework, so it’s important for me to keep up with them a student when I find the time. blogger

As a psychology student, I don’t have I’ve been part of a student-led service many contact hours a week, so on a typical I like to stay healthy while studying. I try called Student Minds for three years while day I spend a couple of hours in lectures to go to the gym two or three times a week at university. Student Minds is a national and spend the rest of the day either doing and I like to get a lot of vegetables into my charity that aims to break down the stigma coursework, watching a bit of Netflix or diet. I make vegetarian meals a couple of surrounding mental health. We also run going to the gym. times a week because it’s a lot cheaper weekly support groups for students than eating meat every day! struggling with eating disorders. Originally from Exmouth in Devon, Charli Babb, 22, has been studying I prefer studying at home. I find the I’ve made some really close friends in library can get a bit hectic and my time at uni. I’d say about half of my psychology with a professional overcrowded, especially during exam friends are from my psychology course placement at for period, and I like being able to make – the other half I met in halls during my first the past four years. Alongside her myself endless cups of tea! year. Here’s my flatmates and I enjoying a Christmas dinner at our flat. studies, she is a prolific blogger. Her blog, High Street Beauty Junkie, focuses primarily on beauty and lifestyle for those on a student budget. She also has a university series, which covers everyt hing from how to make friends to what you should bring to university with you. My evenings tend to be spent cooking It’s only a two-hour train journey from M HAR LI1993/INS TAGRA @C p hy: Photogra Interview by Nicola Slawson and watching telly with my flatmates, Cardiff back to Exmouth, so I tend to go although I do enjoy the occasional night home every one or two months to see my out with my course friends. parents – and the dog, of course! Wearing it their way

These sartorially savvy students prove great style will always trump fashion, via budget-friendly

looks that are a rallying cry for individuality. Show your personality At one end of the spectrum, clean separates with a fun clutch and earn instant style points. and pared back lines keep the #normcore Carrie Wu flame alight; at the other, clashing prints and a creative approach to layering are emblems of the maximalists. Those in between walk the

line that bisects thrift and polish, pairing vintage finds with new-season heroes and Channel off-duty style accessories with bite. Choose with crisp cotton and your side wisely: style is a classic boyfriend jeans. Clio Cooper democracy, after all.

I A damson VIC TOR photography: Patricia Campbell

Earn your stripes by Nail the art school pairing parallel lines uniform with quirky with a contrast print. vintage details. Cassandra Gubudu Jack Allan University of East Middlesex University London

Toughen up florals Paint it black with with an oversized minimal separates leather biker jacket. for a new take on Rose Lee contemporary cool. Student Arturas Nauseda Middlesex University Have fun with embroidered motifs Cut a bold silhouette ripe for the emoji with contrasting lines generation. and playful textures. Jasmine Fleur Katrina Sullivan Knizikeviciute Southampton Solent Middlesex University University ‘I’m over the moon that I came here’ Missing out on your universities of choice can be tough to get over. But plan B need not be a compromise, as Jessica Okoro found out.

essica Okoro, a third-year calling universities that he knew university also supported her J pharmaceutical and ‘I had been were near Loughborough. entrepreneurial side. Okoro’s cosmetic science student so distraught “I had completely given up and business, BeScience Stem, gives at (DMU), and then thought I would never get to go to people in the community a fun Leicester, recently spoke to the university. When my brother called and engaging look into science, all‑party parliamentary group for there was this DMU, they said they would give me technology, engineering and education about her innovating comeback a phone interview – and I got in. mathematics, through innovative social enterprise, BeScience Stem, – I had to I couldn’t believe it.” workshops delivered in public which she set up in the second year grab the Okoro, who had never set places, such as shopping centres of her course. But things could opportunity’ foot in Leicester, let alone on the and libraries, by volunteers who are have easily been so different for campus, before moving there, passionate about the subjects. Okoro, who is from north London. now believes it was the best thing “DMU really supports In the summer of 2012 she received that ever happened to her. “I had entrepreneurs and uniqueness and her A-level results and was been so distraught, then there was innovation, so I feel like coming to devastated – she had missed the this comeback and I had to grab university here helped cultivate grades she needed to get into her the opportunity. I really feel I was that side of me. And I really like universities of choice. meant to go to De Montfort and Leicester – it’s a friendly city.” “I really felt like it was the end of I’m over the moon that I came here Asked what her advice would the world. I just sat down and cried. because of the opportunities I’ve be for any students who find My older brother, who had got a been given.” themselves facing a similar basketball scholarship to go to She was diagnosed with predicament, she is positive: university in Loughborough, dyslexia while at DMU, “Going through Clearing is not the decided to look at Clearing something she had gone end of the world. You just have to for me, as he could see how all the way through school embrace your plan B.” upset I was. He started not realising she had. The Interview by Nicola Slawson

Change your view: Jessica Okoro was upset when her results landed, but quickly recovered ttilio Fiumarella A p hy: Photogra

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 29 Accommodation £ Rental Digs dilemmas costs

Bear in mind how the university and private providers, Average weekly rent by region 2015-16 cost of a roof over your and in the range and quality of the accommodation offered. head varies or you could Region Institution Private be in for a shock, says Location costs £153.11 £120.37 Allison Dickinson The NUS/Unipol Accommodation Student Costs Survey 2015 showed that accommodation East of England £131.44 £168.08 in Middlesbrough, Wales had the cheapest institution- right, and Leeds, Greater London £181.62 £250.67 o matter which university provided accommodation, below right N you enrol at, you will find a averaging £107.73 per week, North-east £111.55 £149.37 range of accommodation to and Greater London was most sector accommodation actually North-west £122.80 £128.11 suit all budgets, from shared houses expensive, at £181.62. Yorkshire had comes in cheaper than that provided to studio flats. the cheapest privately provided by institutions. Northern Ireland £118.67 (overall figure) Accommodation can be provided accommodation, averaging £119.93, In London, where the private Scotland £124.00 £158.38 by the universities themselves or in while Greater London was dearest, sector is the majority supplier, rent South-east £138.99 £148.47 partnership with private providers at £250.67. The national average puts a serious dent in your pocket, – and, of course, wherever you for institutional accommodation at 69% above the national average. South-west £132.54 £163.25 find a university, you will find a was £134.23; privately provided my Another consideration when it a

l Wales £107.73 £144.46 raft of house shares to rent from accommodation averaged £168.94. a comes to cost is that some providers West Midlands £134.11 £134.49 private landlords or through Bear in mind, however, that etty, charge a booking or administration G lettings agencies. institutional providers don’t fee, most will require a deposit, and Yorkshire £122.80 £119.93 phy: phy: There’s a great deal of variation always undercut private sector a you may even need to provide a rent

– not just regionally, but also in suppliers – in Yorkshire and the guarantor, so always check before Source: NUS/ Unipol Accommodation Costs Survey 2015 the price difference between East Midlands, for example, private photogr you sign.

‘It was all ‘During the application you could say sorted within what kind of people you a few weeks’ wanted to live with’ Rani who got her University of Bedfordshire place through Clearing, also landed a plum room

I passed my A-levels with good grades but didn’t get the three As I needed to get into my first choice, which was Sheffield. And I didn’t get into my second choice either. All of a sudden I was like: “Oh my gosh, what am I going to do?” Clearing saved me, with a place at the University of Bedfordshire, but then I needed to find somewhere to live. They advised me to apply for university I was nervous about moving Quickly settled: And thanks to the social media accommodation and I was offered away from home, but during the Biomedical science groups and social spaces, such as an en suite room in Fitzroy Court, application process, you could say student Rani TV and games rooms in halls, it which is literally a one-minute what kind of people you wanted to was really easy to meet people and walk from campus. It was all live with to make sure you ended make friends, which turned out to sorted within a couple of weeks. up with like-minded housemates. be the most important thing. AD

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 31 A happy ending: ‘I’m the happiest I’ve ever been,’ says Jenni Kelsey, who found a place at Keele through Clearing

Can the grass be greener?

Jenni Kelsey was devastated when she very well in my A-levels (ABB), but “released” my application. This missed out on her first-choice unis – but they were also able to advise me has to happen with both your first which universities to look at during choice and insurance choice before Clearing found her an even better option Clearing. On the phone it was hard any other university can officially not to cry, but I found the more I accept you. spoke to the universities, the more In the end, I opted for Keele. esults day is one I’ll never confident I became – they were so They were so reassuring on the R forget – a day of mixed supportive and put me at ease. phone and teachers advised me I’d emotions. My heart was so I had already signed up for enjoy the campus environment. set on the Clearing in advance – but, with Finding accommodation was really that when I got the email, all I could the benefit of hindsight, I’d have straightforward too – all the info I read was: “You have not been started looking around at courses needed was on their website. successful.” I couldn’t bear going earlier and found out more about it. One year on and I’m the happiest into school early to collect my I was panicking so much – I I’ve ever been. Clearing wasn’t grades – the thought of entering a thought all the places would be stress-free but by listening to my room full of happy faces would snapped up immediately; but they teachers and trusting my instincts ‘I panicked. have rubbed salt in the wound. weren’t and I got a couple of offers. I found a university where I’m I thought all When I finally composed myself, Each call takes a while. You have to happy – and I don’t believe that the places I was able to spring into action. go through the same details – what would have happened at my first would be Talking to my teachers was the you want to study, what grades you choice. On results day I thought my most valuable thing I did that got, etcetera. university dreams were over; little snapped up day. Not only were they able to I also found out during the day did I know they’d just begun. immediately’ reassure me I had actually done that my first choice of uni hadn’t Interview by Helena Pozniak hy: attilio fiumarella attilio p hy: Photogra

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 33 A helping hand: organisations such as Raleigh International provide structured volunteer programmes More than one way to fill a gap

Not ready for university just pressure than ever to have broad gap year through an organisation yet? It’s time to schedule work experience and an impressive ‘These sorts of such as Raleigh International or some CV-enhancing fun, CV to show future employers or experiences International Citizen Service (ICS), university admissions boards. boost life both of which provide bursaries. says Nicola Slawson “Heading overseas to work “They give structure and safety to somewhere such as Australia or skills, young people as well as the freedom New Zealand on a Working Holiday confidence to explore countries and meet new ou’ve found your place Visa, teaching English abroad, and maturity’ friends,” she says. “You get great Y through Clearing and doing an internship, or taking part leadership skills that look fantastic decided to defer for a year, in a volunteering or conservation on your CV.” or perhaps you have simply decided project – these are all great ways of Raleigh International’s Mike to apply next year. Either way, you doing this.” Butcher says joining an expedition are now in the enviable, and perhaps He adds that it’s not just about is a good way to make friends if slightly scary, position of having a boosting career prospects: “These you’re travelling alone: “You’ll be in whole year to fill. sorts of experiences also boost life a team of about 12 volunteers, from Tens of thousands of young skills, confidence and maturity, as a diverse range of backgrounds, people from the UK will head they completely immerse you in a including volunteers from the overseas to work this summer – to community and place.” country in which you’re working. bolster experience, earn money to Each team then has a volunteer travel, and widen their skill sets – The volunteer route manager, who is there to facilitate and you could now be one of them. Jennie Mann spent her gap the project and support you. Although there is, of course, year volunteering in Costa “If you’re considering some something to be said for going it Rica – “living in hammocks independent travel after your alone in foreign lands, a gap year in the rainforest and programmes, volunteering of purely backpacking is becoming chopping down bamboo first might just give you the less common; most young people with a machete to build confidence to do it – and, in are opting to do some kind of footpaths” – and in all likelihood, some travel volunteering or work while abroad. Nicaragua, helping build buddies.” Tim Fryer, STA Travel’s UK an aqueduct to provide He adds: “Whatever you country manager, says: “Today’s homes with running water. choose to do, make sure you

hy: alamy p hy: Photogra young people are under more Her top tip is to organise your are passionate about it.”

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 35 Having had summer off after my A-levels, I’m now saving money Gap year for travelling. I mainly do events top tips waitressing and bartending. It is definitely not boring, but it is quite unpredictable, sometimes going from no shifts for a couple of days Do your research. If you want to volunteer, find out about the to three in one day. organisation, ask difficult questions, and make sure they’re reputable.

In the new year, my adventure Go to a country where you can get begins. My first stop is Morocco, a work visa. Combining work and where I’ll be volunteering with backpacking is easy in countries Education For All (EFA) which helps such as Australia and New Zealand girls in the very rural High Atlas meaning you don’t have to save mountains finish their education. quite as much. Plus working in a My own school’s been supporting country is one of the best ways to the organisation for years so I’d get under its skin. heard a lot about it. It seems like a great opportunity to get to Moroccan Think outside the box, initiatives know a country and a culture I’m moments: visiting such as Help Exchange enable interested in. People keep asking if ruins outside you to help families or businesses a village near in exchange for food and I’m nervous to go away but I’m too Asni (above) and accommodation – a really cheap excited to be nervous. attending a Berber way to see the world. Just check the wedding in Tinmel Emily Potter from Bristol has spent her gap year working, (right) reviews from previous helpers first! volunteering and backpacking. At the end of August she flies I’ve arrived in Asni, Morocco. Consider staying in the UK and home to start studying at Leeds University Everyone has been very welcoming finding a meaningful opportunity and lovely, but it was a little here. Volunteering Matters has full- daunting being introduced to about time opportunities for young people 35 girls in such a short space of time wishing to live away from home for – and after so little sleep. six months or a year while making a difference in this country.

My main job as a volunteer is Overall, think about the impact you helping the girls who live in EFA’s want to make, and go out and do it. boarding houses with their English and French. I help a lot with homework, and the group “lessons” After leaving Asni, I travelled I lead consist mainly of games and through Morocco to Tangier, before debates, but any chance to practise getting the ferry to Spain and flying I usually have Spanish lessons in is useful for them. There is also to Budapest to do some interrailing the morning and then spend the always some project on the go, like around Europe with my best friend. afternoons getting all my work done. repainting all the plant pots on the We’re in Prague now. We spent the My internship involves me doing all roof, or redoing the displays. If day wandering around and there’s the admin, so my days are mainly there is nothing to do then we go so much to see and the city is beau- spent emailing potential students and play football. tiful. We had no plan so we just got and making sure everything is set up lost for a couple of hours and took for their time studying here. every opportunity to eat interesting Being of a similar age to the girls looking food. has helped me make really good In September, I’m going to Leeds friends. A couple of them invited University to study French and me to stay with their families for I flew home from Brussels and Arabic. It’s exciting, but at the the weekend, which was so much now I’m getting ready for my next moment I’m more excited about fun. I have even been to an Amazigh ‘They dressed adventure – Nicaragua. I first went being in Nicaragua and exploring (Berber) wedding. They dressed me me in a Kaftan there when I was 16 and I really Central America. Granada is close in a Kaftan and we danced until 6am wanted to come back to explore it to a lot of really amazing places, and then walked home half way up and we more. I’m going to do an internship including an enormous lake full a mountain. It started snowing and danced until at a place called Casa Xalteva in of tiny islands, a crater lake, two we were all wearing heels, and we 6am, then Granada. It’s great because it’s a volcanoes, the capital city Managua, had one torch between the five of us walked home non-profit Spanish school that and the pacific coast. I have a lot of but because we were all so tired, we funds an educational programme options for exploring so I just pick a thought it was the funniest thing. half way up a for underprivileged local children place when I have time and visit.

hy: getty p hy: additional Photogra That was one of my best moments. mountain’ and adolescents. Interview by Nicola Slawson

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 37 Alternatives Ready to join the workforce?

Look to an apprentice degree or FE college to nurture your vocation, says Helena Pozniak

auren Allen, 21, has a L mortgage, a salary, is studying for a degree-level qualification, and has no student debt. Deterred from going to university by the fees, she opted instead for a school leaver’s programme with Be Wiser Insurance, earning £18,000 a year to train and study for insurance qualifications at her local further education college in Basingstoke. If she continues as planned with her advanced diploma, equivalent to a master’s degree level, she’ll finish studying in April next year, at which point her salary could rise to £28,000. “I never felt I missed ‘I never felt I under 21 and 44% are studying who urges students speak to staff out on the uni experience,” she says. missed out on the part-time. England has 244 colleges before applying: “Committing to a “The company organised lots of uni experience,’ with degree-awarding powers, programme takes time and energy says FE college socials and I made lots of friends. I’ll student Lauren mostly through partnership with a and you do have to pick a course qualify at about the same time as if Allen, below university. These colleges also offer that really engages you.” I’d gone to uni – but with experience foundation degrees, which enable And there are many other options and without the debt.” students to leapfrog on to degree too; degree apprenticeships, for Allen has taken one of many courses, as well as apprenticeships alternative routes into higher and other vocational qualifications. ‘I’ll qualify at the same time education. As careers advisers “We very much welcome point out, students who are having students whose A-level results as if I’d gone to uni – but with second thoughts about university weren’t what they hoped,” says experience and without debt’ now have more choices than ever Bournemouth & Poole College’s before – one of which is to study Antony Wright. Here, applicant example, now in their second year, for university-level degrees at local numbers are looking more buoyant are expanding their subject range further education (FE) colleges. than last year, and most students to cover everything from digital They’re loser to home, cost less, live locally. “It may not always be through to public relations, via have smaller class sizes, and what students set out to do, but it’s aerospace software development. subjects are more vocational. definitely a cheaper route.” These employer-university Costs are usually around collaborations pay apprentices a Higher and further £6,000 a year, and many students full-time wage, while they study for One in 10 students currently study part-time to fit work in their degrees – the government and in higher education are alongside. Focusing on areas such employer pick up the tab. at a further education as engineering, graphic design, Even the (OU) college rather than at tourism or teacher training, attracts a younger crowd these university, according many FE courses are developed days – 30% of students are under 25 to research from jointly with local employers to and 7% are between 18 and 21. Full- the Education and offer a gentler introduction to time degrees at OU cost an average Training Foundation. higher study. Applicants can go of £5,600 a year and, crucially, set

hy: getty p hy: Photogra A third of them are through Clearing says Wright, no academic entry requirements.

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 39 Can you help my son use a tin opener?

Can I have a room with a view? Can I bring my pet dog/snake/ gerbil?

There’s no harm in asking Admissions tutors are impressed by students quizzing them on courses they’re offering through Clearing – and it’s worth having some more general questions too, says Helena Pozniak

tudents – and their parents – colour will my curtains be – I want to S ask some funny things. A basketball buy a matching bedspread.” Another Even the most experienced player asked simply wondered: “Who will cook Clearing admissions tutors have been my meals?” about the debunked temporarily floored by some queries during Clearing. “I’m worried my length of his Satisfy your curiosities son will not be able to use a tin bed – and was But don’t be put off by these opener – could you help him?” asked duly given a examples: it always pays to ask. Many sixth-formers are hazy one parent of staff at the University bed extension A basketball player applying to about how Clearing actually works, of Greenwich. “Could I bring my asked acording to a survey by Leeds gerbil/snake/dog?” is another about the length of his bed – and Beckett University. perennial favourite – and the answer was duly given a bed extension. is almost always no. And really, there’s no such thing More than a quarter of A-level “What course do you think I as a silly question, says Jessica students think they need to accept should do?” is the question no Bearne, Enquiry Unit Manager, an offer by the end of results day (they don’t), and three quarters would-be undergraduate should University of Greenwich – it’s think there’s a limit on how many ask, but that doesn’t stop them. natural to ask about all sorts. “So offers can be held (there isn’t). Other students are more particular whatever your question, do ring in. about their surroundings. “Can Universities have teams of people Nearly one in five thinks Clearing I have a room with a view?” one waiting to help – many of them closes at the end of results day (it student asked staff at Greenwich, students who were in your position actually closes on 20 September). hy: gallerystock, getty, alma haser getty, gallerystock, p hy: Photogra following it up with: “And what just a year or two ago.”

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 41 Freshers’ week Your university adventure starts here

Quirky societies, wild socials outdoor cinema, light shows, quiz Simon Gerry, chief executive of students. That’s followed there by and outdoor cinema – it’s all nights, karaoke and comedy events. ‘Freshers’ Newcastle students union, says it’s more events to help arrivals get to there in freshers’ week, says Some of the larger universities even week is not all about partying: “The evening grips with the community, such book celebrities or famous DJs. always a good events and big-name acts get the as supermarket tours and help Allison Dickinson Scott Mills, who presents the headlines, but more than 80% of our registering with dental and GP afternoon show on Radio 1, has been time because events are teetotal – and surveys tell services. Evening events include DJing at student gigs for more than 10 students are us this is where students really forge a Taste of Scotland welcome party s last year’s freshers packed years. “There’s nothing like freshers’ excited to be friendships that will last a lifetime.” and a nightly Conversation Cafe and A up and went home for the week. It’s a fantastic experience. I there’ appearances from Radio 1 DJs Nick summer, student unions might visit 20 or 25 in a month and Look beyond the university Grimshaw and Daniel P Carter. across the country were putting the it’s always a good time because the Many universities will also be taking The University of Nottingham final touches to their 2016 freshers’ students are all genuinely excited to advantage of what is happening in promises “foam cannons, bouncy weeks agendas. be there,” he says. their towns and cities in a bid to castles, fire breathers, giant ball Covering everything from the “I’ll be doing a lot get students to engage with their pits, UV face painting and more”, obligatory pub crawls and freshers’ of student gigs this communities. while the boasts balls to community events, advice year, and we’re Students at the University “the biggest freshers event in the and freshers’ fairs – not to mention definitely planning of Hull, for example, can look UK,” complete with glow-in-the- all the goody bags – the mission is to on representing the forward to a year of events dark robots. deliver something for everyone. student community that are tied in with the Students at the University of Expect a bundle of daytime as part of the show. A lot UK City of Culture 2017 only cultural experiences, but also The 2015 freshers with events running from mid- Gloucestershire are promised the events courting you to sign up to of students say we’re their celebrations. As a opportunities to expand their CVs opening party at September into October, although “biggest freshers in history” with sports clubs and societies; then, breakfast show because they principal partner, the with volunteering. the University of the kicks a moving-in-day garden party and South Wales when the sun goes down, it’s all don’t get out of bed until one university is able to Most universities offer something off even earlier, on August 30, barbecue, an international food about themed parties, pub quizzes, o’clock!” offer students not more like a fortnight for freshers, with an event to welcome local festival and a 5k run. Wheel mates: roller derby players at Earls Court, London hy: getty p hy: Photogra Do you wanna be in my gang?

University societies attract ocieties are absolutely students doing nice things or like-minded people. What S fantastic at creating that ‘Societies having a good student experience – sense of belonging that ultimately, societies make students better place to meet friends, make students need to keep them in students and and their lives, as well as wider asks Allison Dickinson education,” says Richard Brooks, society, better.” NUS vice-president of union their lives, development. as well as “It’s about meeting people who wider society, Extreme sports are like you and who care about better’ you. Plus, students who take part Ultimate frisbee Nottingham Trent in societies are not only less likely University students can take part in to drop out – they also go on to get this fast-paced team game of razor- good honours degrees and have sharp throwing skills and immense better employment prospects too.” stamina and agility. Also at Leeds, Brooks, a judge on the inaugural Exeter, Edinburgh and more. National Societies Awards this year, has been impressed Airsoft society Players eliminate with the sheer diversity of the opponents by hitting each other societies offered by student unions with spherical non-metallic pellets. across the country. Offered at the . “There’s everything from ninja and pirate societies to extreme Roller derby A full-contact women’s sports, like rock climbing and sport played on roller skates, mountaineering,” he says. “Then by players skating around an there’s the more traditional sports, elliptical track. The game consists community groups and activism of a series of two-minute countdown – so there really is something for “jams”. Get your skates on at a everyone,” he explains. range of universities, including “It’s not just about Cambridge.

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 45 Curmudgeons and dragons: uni gives you the chance to explore new interests, such as Walt Disney (below), Game of Thrones (bottom) and quidditch (left)

Extreme ironing Described as graduate medical students, their “combining the thrills of an All you need areas of interest centre on clinical extreme outdoor activity with the is an ironing forensic medicine, pathology and satisfaction of a well-pressed shirt”, board, some Benedict Cumberbatch. extreme ironing sits somewhere between performance art and laundry, and Pagan and occult extreme sport. All you need is an a remote or offers this discussion group based ironing board, some laundry, and dangerous around topics from the paranormal a remote or dangerous location/ situation to the supernatural. Paganism and situation – maybe in a canoe or witchcraft feature heavily. under a frozen lake – and you’re away. Available at the University of Nottingham. TV and film societies Ice and Fire Offered at the , this is the society Dumbledore’s Army to appreciate all things Game of Unusual clubs This society for Harry Potter Thrones with socials, episode fans at the University of screenings and book discussions. Historia Normannis A 12th-century Derby has quizzes, online medieval reenactment group at the roleplaying, fan fiction and RuPaul’s Drag Race Watch episodes, Univesrity of Derby, focusing on the origami sessions. get backstage gossip, and enjoy trips events between the reigns of Henry to Drag Idol UK and RuPaul’s Drag I and King John. Muggle Quidditch A full- Race UK in London. At Keele. contact, mixed-gender Real tennis Middlesex University sport modelled on the Student unions are always open to has the enclosed court needed to broomstick-based sport ideas for new societies as long as play the original tennis – which from JK Rowling’s wizard there’s enough interest, says Derby has as much in common with world. Also at Derby. students union vice-president of squash as it does with student community Amy Horner. Wimbledon. Disney appreciation “At the start of 2016, we held a University of campaign to encourage students to The Baker Street Manchester students start up new societies. Some ideas Irregulars Formed in can enjoy movie were a bit ‘out there’ – suggestions 2015 at St George’s nights, quizzes and included stitch and bitch [knitting], University of events based around all skydiving and snail racing – but

hy: sam frost, alamy, getty alamy, sam frost, p hy: Photogra London by four things Disney. everything is considered!”

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 47 Study skills

Studying Step up to the mark top tips

When you finished GCSEs, you probably thought A-levels were impossible. 1 Attend all inductions. Access any But you coped. Gavan Naden offers some tips for the next challenge you miss through the university’s virtual learning environment. Once logged in check each module and what is expected from assignments. t’s the parties, drinking Head down: you’ll constant revision tests; there’s no I games and other fun stuff need to work hard one to tell students off if they don’t that grab the headlines. And to stay on top of turn up to tutorials and no parents the academic side yet, despite rumours to the contrary, of university life to help fill out forms. most university courses actually So students will have to be require a serious amount of study. flexible, relying upon themselves That workload can be a major and their organisational skills to step up from school days – both in ensure they get the most from intensity and complexity – but many their course. are so relieved to be on a course that “University is they forget to prepare themselves all about building 2 Go to the library. Obtain a range for the new academic regime. independence and of different sources, so you have all “I never gave it much thought resilience,” says Claire the required reading you need. and was just happy to be there,” Huxham, senior tutor says Tim Hartley, who is studying in the Faculty of Arts 3 Investigate your learning style at the University of Nottingham. “I at the University Take an online learning method test, never considered how hard I’d have of Bristol, “but such as Vark, to discover whether you’re a visual learner, aural learner, to work until I arrived.” this doesn’t mean reader/writer or kinesthetic. There are no teachers, no going it alone.”

Support networks, such as study “Students should see lectures as skills workshops, buddy systems ‘Students a starting point, rather than a source and peer mentoring, are vital in should see of all their information. And it’s helping students adapt from school lectures as necessary for students to do a lot to university learning. more work themselves around their “These can provide a safe and a starting contact hours.” welcoming space to gain confidence, point, rather Depending on the course you’re sustain motivation, share ideas than a source taking, you could have a full, heavily and talk about seminar content,” timetabled day – on engineering 4 Acknowledge that academic of all their reading is not always easy. Learn she says. “We often see first years or medicine, for example – or, if information’ to reference quickly – and always worried about the quality of you’re reading English literature or acknowledge your sources. their work and where they stand history, have very few lectures and

in relation to their new peers. tutorials but bundles of reading to 5 Accept that academic success is It’s OK to see what works and tackle. “University can be hard and a very important part of university. what doesn’t. Feedback isn’t a one- may not feel like this wonderful It’s not just about the social scene! way street, but an opportunity to get experience that it’s painted to be,”

involved with your subject and find adds Thompson. “Even for the 6 Seek support if you struggle. your academic voice.” most gifted students this may be Go to your personal tutor, senior the first time they have come across tutor, pastoral support team, Independence haze something really difficult.” wardens or senior residents in Dr Emma Thompson, Southampton As for parents, they can help by university accommodation. University’s Learn with US encouraging debate and critical Transition Leader, believes students thinking, rather than expecting 7 Break down large tasks into know they are entering a new world their child to accept all they hear. smaller, achievable steps. It makes of independence and self-reliance, Respect is fundamental, but it’s ok them less daunting. but may be hazy on the details. to question the foundations of what “Most students are aware they is being taught. 8 Don’t worry if your work isn’t will have to be more self motivated, “Give your child the space to perfect first time round. Hone and organised and timetabled,” she says, solve their own problems,” says polish it afterwards. “but it also helps to have a greater Huxham. “Let them know you’re understanding of the difference always there, but empower them 9 Foster positive wellbeing between the style of lessons at in their decisions. Let them ask Make use of support services, such as school and those at university, questions and let them find the counselling, disability services and the health service, if you need them. where lectures are more didactic answers, instead of telling them

hy: gallerystock, getty gallerystock, p hy: Photogra and perhaps slightly less interactive. what to do.”

Guide to Clearing 2016 | 49 How to survive Do the first few weeks Don’t

Make use of social Uni can be exciting and daunting in equal measures. Don’t close your door media – join Facebook Allison Dickinson helps you through the initiation while you’re moving in groups connected to your – keep it open so you can freshers’ week and your say hello to people when halls of residence. they walk by.

Be prepared to feel Don’t skip the homesick – it’s only library induction – the natural, no matter how essays will soon start good a time you’re piling up and it’s having! valuable knowledge!

Remember you’re not Don’t assume freshers’ alone in the way you’re week is the only time you feeling – everyone else is can make friends. You’ll pretty nervous about meet more people when their new life too. you course starts.

Make sure you attend Don’t feel pressured some non-drinking events to go to every event – – you can’t expect to you’ll end up with no keep up the pace night money and probably after night! catch freshers’ flu too. hy: getty p hy: Photogra