Sophie Aldous
"For me, Clearing was one of the biggest days of my life and I definitely hadn’t taken enough time to prepare myself. If you’re in a position like I was, find someone you trust to help you through it and do in-depth research. It will be ok!"
Course
Biomedical Engineering BEng (Hons)In the lead-up to A-level results day, I did some research into backup universities. I didn’t think a biomedical engineering degree could be a backup option for me as I haven’t studied biology, so I didn’t look into this course until Clearing day.
I qualified for Clearing as I didn’t meet the entry requirements for the universities I applied to and because I’d decided to change my degree choice from computer science to engineering. I was terrified at first; I didn’t think I’d go to university. My teachers weren’t very supportive, so I rang a lot of universities to see what offers I might get.
"Surrey was incredibly helpful throughout the process. They were the nicest university to call, really friendly and welcoming."
I e-mailed Surrey several times to get more information and they invited me to attend a Clearing open day – I decided not to accept my offer from them until I’d visited the campus to get a feel for the environment. The minute I stepped foot on campus, I knew I wanted to accept my offer.
My biggest help was the Surrey tour guide - I was quite stressed as I called UCAS, so I literally gave him my phone and he helped me accept my offer!
Even when I started my course at University of Surrey, I still didn’t feel 100% sure of my course change, but the Surrey staff were really supportive. My personal tutor, who is the Head of Biomedical Engineering, supported me and now I can see it as the best decision I could have made. As someone who struggles with their mental health, Surrey was the right choice for me as there is so much support and everyone is so welcoming.
When it comes to Clearing, prepare yourself. For me, it was one of the biggest days of my life and I definitely hadn’t taken enough time to ready myself. If you’re in a position like I was and don’t think your school will give you much physical or emotional help, find someone you trust to aid you through it and do in-depth research.
I thought Clearing would be the worst thing that could happen, but without it, I’d be doing a degree I don’t like, and I would be lacking the relationships I have made at Surrey. It will all be okay!
