My name is Iveta, and I’m originally from Bulgaria. I’m in my first year studying an undergraduate course in International Tourism Management.
My Clearing experience started two years ago when I saw a free Return to Study course advertised that was running over the summer. The course leader was really impressed with my performance and encouraged me to apply for the foundation year in International Tourism Management. Because I’d missed the January UCAS deadline, I applied for the course through Clearing and started university that September.
Why I decided to study a foundation year
I had a choice between starting in the first year or doing a foundation year. Because English is not my native language, I decided to start with a foundation year to better prepare myself for the next stages of my education.
It’s easy to apply through Clearing
Applying to the foundation year through Clearing was easy. I had to create a UCAS account and the only documentation I needed was my passport. Since I already had my results, I applied through Clearing over email and got accepted straight away and everything was sorted out very quickly for me.
I applied originally to university in 2020, but when covid hit I postponed my education for two years. I didn’t have any worries about going through Clearing, I was just really ready to start my studies and I knew exactly what course I wanted to study.
I’m really passionate about my course, International Tourism Management, and I wanted to study at UCLan for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I have my house here, and secondly, my course is ranked first in the North West. The course has exceeded my expectations with helpful lecturers and great opportunities to travel abroad.
Applying for Student Finance is really simple
Applying for student finance was incredibly easy. I visited the Student Finance website, and completed the online application. I'd received an acceptance email within a couple of days. As a UK home student, I had to wait for the university to confirm my attendance before receiving any funds. The entire application process took less than 20 minutes.
Life at UCLan
UCLan is an affordable university with loads of opportunities. The campuses are close to each other, and the main Preston campus is only a 30-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride from my house. The campuses are modern, and the Student Centre offers plenty of study spaces and social areas to work and relax in.
My favourite spots on campus
My favourite place at UCLan is the Student Centre. I love ordering an iced coffee during breaks and enjoying the roof terrace on a sunny day—it feels like you’re abroad. I also love the library, where not only can you borrow academic books, but you can also borrow fictional books, saving me from having to buy them from a bookshop.
Opportunities to study abroad
One of the best aspects of my course are the opportunities to study abroad. In my first year, I went to Cyprus. After finishing my foundation year, I was selected for a one month internship in South Korea, where I worked in a Korean school. This summer, I’ll be heading to Bali to work on a marketing project, all organised by the university.
Commuting hasn’t been a barrier to making friends
Commuting to university has been easy. I walk from home in 30 minutes or take a 10-minute bus ride. When the weather is nice, I cycle or walk. Commuting has not been a barrier to making friends. I’ve found it easy to meet people and have made friends from all over the world, including England, Pakistan, India, and Bulgaria. I’ve met so many interesting people here that I wouldn’t have met if I didn’t study here.
Working as a Wellbeing Ambassador
I started working for UCLan as a wellbeing ambassador because I liked the idea of both working and studying here. After my interview, I completed training in sight guidance, autism awareness, note-taking, guide dog training, and wheelchair assistance. I’ve gained a lot of skills and enjoy helping other students have the best experience possible at university. No one should miss lectures, get behind or miss out on anything that other students enjoy.
My advice for anyone going through Clearing
My advice for anyone going through Clearing is to be brave and don’t hesitate to ask questions. The university staff are very friendly and will answer any questions you have about university life, subjects, societies, campuses, and accommodation. There are many ways to get in touch, you can call, email, message them on social media or visit the campus.
UCLan has truly been a place of growth and opportunity for me, and I am excited about what the future holds.
