Clearing success story: University of York

Jay's Clearing story

Jay felt devastated to miss out on a place to study Medicine. On calling the University of York, there was plenty of support. Jay got a place through Clearing to study Chemistry – and now couldnl't be more pleased with how it all worked out.

Hi, my name's Jay and I'm a first-year Chemistry student studying at the University of York.

I want to talk about something that worries a lot of students – results day and Clearing. I've been through it myself, and I know how overwhelming it can feel.

But I want to reassure you that Clearing can lead to something really great. It brought me here to York, and honestly, I couldn't be happier with how things have turned out.

How did you prepare for results day?

The lead-up to results day was definitely stressful. But what helped me to stay grounded was focusing on things I enjoyed. Like spending time with friends, or just doing little things that helped to take my mind off the pressure.

I reminded myself that I'd worked really hard and done everything I could. And at that point, there really wasn't any point in worrying because I couldn't change the outcome. Having that mindset and knowing I had a backup plan just in case made a big difference.

Why did you enter Clearing?

At the time, I had an offer to study Medicine. I told myself that if I didn't meet the grades, I'd take a gap year to resit. Clearing honestly wasn't something I thought would apply to me.

Then results day came around and I didn't get the grades I needed. I just remember feeling crushed. Really disappointed – and honestly, unsure what to do next.

I took some time to myself, went on a walk to clear my head, and spent a bit of time with my dog, just trying to breathe and process everything. And that's when something changed. I realised a gap year wasn't the right path for me after all. I needed to get to university and keep moving forward.

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

I'd always had an interest in Chemistry, and York had always been my dream university. So, when I saw there was a place available through Clearing, I picked up the phone immediately.

How was making your Clearing call?

The woman I spoke to was incredibly empathetic. She took the time to explain everything clearly, congratulated me on my results, and actually paused to make sure that I was okay. And that might sound small, but it made such a big difference. She made me feel seen, supported, and like I was making the right decision, even in the middle of a really stressful morning.

In that moment, I went from feeling unwanted, like I hadn't achieved enough, to feeling wanted again. It was like someone was reaching out to say, "You belong here."

That phone call, that feeling of being wanted, played a huge part in why I chose to accept the offer and come to York. It gave me a sense of calm and reassurance that I really needed, and I'm so, so glad I said yes.

Have you enjoyed your course and time at uni?

Looking back, it's honestly one of the best decisions I've ever made. I absolutely love my subjects, and the chemistry department here at York is outstanding. They've been so supportive from day one, and they always go the extra mile for the students.

I've met some incredible people and I'm genuinely happy – I couldn't imagine my life anywhere else. Clearing gave me an opportunity I didn't expect, and it completely changed my path for the better.

So if you're feeling worried about results day, I get it. I've been there. But things not going to plan doesn't mean it's the end. It might just be the start of something even better.