My experience studying accounting through clearing

BSc Accounting and Finance graduate Fia tells her story of choosing to study BSc Accounting through clearing.

What course do you study and what year did you apply to Essex?

I originally applied and was accepted for 'BSc Accounting' in 2016 before switching to do the joint degree 'BSc Accounting & Finance' because I enjoyed a lot of the Finance modules in my first year. I thought this would give me more career opportunities after I graduated.

What happened on results day and why did you apply through clearing?

I remember it like it was yesterday because it was one of the happiest days of my life when I found out I could qualify to go to university through Clearing. I couldn’t wait for the adventure that awaited me.

On A Level results day, I achieved average grades but I was expecting this. My first thought was to redo my last year at sixth form so I could qualify to go to uni.... a year later!

However, on results day, I made a last-minute decision to try out Clearing, not knowing I'd come out the other side with an offer! The process seemed daunting; I remember seeking advice from my sixth form Careers department. I followed instructions and called universities to see if they had any spaces available for the course I wanted. I had a million questions and doubts running through the back of my mind like, what about Student Finance? All my other friends have already applied last summer, so if I get accepted through Clearing what if my loan doesn’t get approved on time? But that didn’t stop me.

I kept going until I discovered that Essex Business School had a space available on BSc Accounting! 

Why did you choose to study at Essex Business School?

As soon as I heard Essex Business School had a space available for accounting, I jumped at the opportunity. The university was near my family home which meant I could save on living costs, and I had already visited the Colchester campus on Open Days. Additionally, having spoken to ambassadors of the university at my college, I felt confident in making my decision to accept my Essex Business School Clearing offer.

What has your experience been like studying at Essex?

I loved my university experience at the University of Essex. Essex Business School played a key role in my academic and social life. I enjoyed the lectures & seminars which encouraged proactive independent learning and I loved the way Essex Business School promotes inclusivity & diversity amongst staff & students. The student services team provided career support to help you achieve your professional goals and the Essex Business School Student Experience Team used to host a variety of social events which made the university experience more fun! I made so many friends for life and had endless networking opportunities from people around the world. And if you struggle in any way, there is always someone to help, I was given access to a wide range of resources. All included in your degree! 

For me it was a once in a lifetime experience

What advice would you give students about to go through clearing?

Clearing is a great option for starting university, and sure it can feel scary not knowing what's next after Results Day but just know that Clearing will always be there. There are plenty of resources available online and at your school to find out more about how it all works. If you got lower grades than expected, didn't want to go to university but have since changed your mind or you want to apply for a completely different course or university, it's not the end of the world, it's all possible with Clearing! Personally, I always used to think of it as a way for me to step into my brand-new adventure. I recommend it because it changed the trajectory of my life for the best! The greatest 3 years of my life were during my degree and that wouldn't have been possible without Clearing and Essex Business School.