Clearing success story: Staffordshire

What degree did you originally apply for and where?

I originally applied to go to vet school, but missed the grades by just one grade on my A Levels, so they rejected me. It totally knocked me back; all my friends were applying to universities and I just thought it obviously wasn’t for me – I didn’t think I was intelligent enough. 

Did you attend a clearing open day? How was it?

I visited a later open day where I spoke to one of the lecturers who really helped me. He gave me excitement about the course and higher educations and couldn’t wait to start. 

Why did you choose Biological Sceince at Staffordshire?

I was impressed by the facilities at Staffs and the enthusiasm of the lecturer I spoke to at the open day. The lecturers have really helped with my confidence, not just on an educational level, but on a pastoral level as well. They've really helped me develop as a person and grow into a confident scientist.

How was your university experience?

It’s been amazing! I’ve now graduated with a first and won the Outstanding Performance Award on my degree as well. Through the course and the university's placement team, I also had the opportunity to work at the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve in South Africa in my final year, where I spent a month helping on a range of conservation projects and working with endangered animals including white rhino, hyenas and leopard turtles