Bethan's Clearing experience

Bethan discusses how she went through Clearing and found a place here to study Forensic Psychology.

The thought of going through Clearing can seem daunting, however my experience was smooth and easy. In fact, I knew by the end of results day that I had a place to study Forensic Psychology at UCLan. I’m going to talk a bit more about my experience of results day and how to keep calm if you find yourself going through the Clearing process.

My results day was eventful to say the least, there were many tears! However, with the support of my family, tutors and friends I entered Clearing. I felt like I was in a different world trying to phone up potential universities, hoping to still start my next academic adventure. It was getting later and later, there was the pressure of all my friends chatting about where they would be studying and their new accommodation, yet I was still searching and anxious.

My mother said, “Why not try UCLan?” I knew I wanted to go to a local university and commute due to family commitments.

"Clearing can be a scary time, when you are full of adrenaline and panicking regarding your future but in fact it is a very efficient process."

— Bethan Hughes, BSc Forensic Psychology student

Originally, I had never considered UCLan and I was unsure about attending a university in a city. I started researching my future course online and the one thing that stood out to me about UCLan is how unlike most other universities, they had more than just a standard Psychology course, with the likes of Forensic Psychology , Neuropsychology and Health Psychology. After my call with who would be my future dissertation supervisor, I knew I had found my perfect university and instantly felt like a weight was taken off my shoulders. I was going to a university that cared for me and took the time and effort to get me onto my chosen course without any complications.

I can now say this was the best decision I ever made. After finishing my degree in Forensic Psychology, I chose to pursue my postgraduate in Criminal Investigation here at UCLan and I have never looked back.

Looking back, I would tell my younger self to take a few breaths and not to put a time limit on my future life choices, as Clearing is not just a one-day event. For whatever reason, if you find yourself going through Clearing, you still have a great opportunity to get onto your dream course. So when results day creeps up, make sure you get some sleep, hydrate and relax before you pick up the phone and decide your future!