Clearing profile - Aliyah Awoye, LLB Law

I initially intended to study at the University of Warwick but I fell slightly short of the requirements, so had to go through Clearing.

I started exam results day feeling quite daunted by the uncertainty that lay ahead, but fortunately, I got an offer to study at a world-class university like Sheffield, so I’m really grateful for the opportunities Clearing gave me.

The Clearing process for students across the country can be stressful as you have to call a lot of universities and hope that they have space for you. The nature of my course is quite competitive too, therefore, a lot of spaces in universities cleared up quickly. However Sheffield made the experience a very positive one for me.

Out of all of the universities that I had called and made enquiries with, they were the most reassuring. Sheffield answered my phone call quickly, they congratulated me on my grades and the University gave me all of the information that I needed to make my decision. It was the best experience I had received throughout the Clearing process and I didn’t have to wait a long time to receive an answer on whether or not I had a place.

The advisor on the phone was extremely helpful in making sure I understood how the course worked at the University too. Above all, it was important to me to choose a university that I thought was a good investment, so the fact that the University of Sheffield is extremely well-reputed made the decision to take an offer here an easy one.

At the University of Sheffield, all students who come through Clearing or Adjustment are guaranteed accommodation, which isn’t something a lot of universities offer and is a real relief as it takes a lot of stress out of the process.

I was worried that it would be a struggle to find accommodation because I would essentially be one of the last people to apply to the University, but the fact that I was assured that I would have that all sorted - and could even come and see my halls if I wanted to - made my decision to join Sheffield even better.

Nearly a year on from that day, I couldn’t be happier. My time at Sheffield has been much better than I could have anticipated. Not only do I really like the course that I’m doing, it’s clear that the academic staff are of a really high standard and they enjoy their work.

As for University social life, there are loads of societies available at the Students’ Union! I joined the Edward Bramley Law Society, who as well as organising lots of fun events like day trips and balls, also hold careers events, connecting students to prestigious firms and companies to help us get the most out of our time at Sheffield and boost further job prospects. I think I’d love to join the Tea Society next year, so there really is something for everyone!

As for the city, Sheffield is extremely beautiful and there is a lot to see and do - the only struggle is finding time to fit it all in.

The most important advice I would give people in my shoes this exam results day would be to be prepared and to make sure that you have someone with you while you are going through Clearing, whether that’s a parent, guardian or friend. I think it really helps just to help keep you focused, organised and to provide some moral support.

Another tip would be to have a list of the universities you’re interested in and their clearing numbers on hand so that you know what your options are in advance and can research the courses that the university offers. 

But most importantly, I would say to remain positive, because there is a university out there that will be right for you!