SECOND CHANCES: Three students reveal how they fared on the clearing

SECOND CHANCES: Three students reveal how they fared on the clearing system

BRENDA MOONEY, 22, is about to graduate from Queen Mary, University of London

BRENDA Mooney got her place studying medical engineering through clearing.

She says: "I first applied to do medicine at Queen Mary and Glasgow, and I needed ABB. On results day, I got BBB it was a huge shock, and I felt very confused.

"I had two options. I could either resit my A-levels and reapply, or do a related course, and maybe do a degree in medicine afterwards. I phoned Queen Mary and the admissions tutor asked me in for a chat to discuss medical engineering. The clearing system was good, I used the internet and national press. I'm definitely happy with my decision. I think I had a lucky escape after seeing people study medicine!"

ANNABEL HOWELL, 25, is due to start second-year anthropology at Goldsmiths College ANNABEL Howell bagged her place through clearing last year. "I first applied to university when I was 18, but I didn't really want to go. I got BBC in my A-levels, got a job at an insurance broker, and decided to stay there.

"Two years later I began to regret my decision. I applied to do psychology, but again changed my mind. Nearly seven years on from my first application the regret got to me. I only had a month to sort things out, and I went though clearing to get into Goldsmiths.

"I didn't experience any problems, and Goldsmiths phoned immediately to confirm my place."

HEMA SHARMA, 21, has just finished her second year at Kingston where she is studying law HEMA Sharma went through clearing to get into Kingston University.

"Originally I applied through UCAS to do business courses, but during my A-levels I changed my mind and wanted to do law. I got BBE in my A-levels and, on results day, I looked through the newspaper and phoned up Kingston. I was offered a place on BA law, as I was two points short for LLB. They said I could transfer if I did well in my first year, which is what I did. The clearing process is quite easy, and the people were very helpful.

I'm happy where I am."

Stay calm, but don't delay "CLEARING can offer a whole new range of options," says Anthony Allen, student recruitment manager at Kingston University. "Put the disappointment behind you and make the most of this opportunity by acting quickly.

"Clearing is a bit like a degree-course sale, where students with the right entry points can snap up vacant places. The earlier you shop, the better the choice. Some students will have already checked out what is available and know what they want when the hotlines open. Do not delay in finding out what would suit you."

Plan your approach Says Allen: "Look at listings of university vacancies or visit the UCAS website. Consider your subject strengths and weaknesses, in light of your grades, and make a shortlist of courses which appeal to you."

"Do not wait for your Clearing Entry Form to arrive in the post - start contacting the universities you are interested in by phone or email. You will need to provide information about your A-level and GCSE grades and, if you meet the requirements, you will speak to an admissions tutor. While this is your chance to prove you deserve a place, it is also an opportunity to ask questions about the course."

Make your decision "Once you know what offers are available, talk through your options with your family, friends or teachers.

If you can, visit the university to see its facilities and location.

Finally, let your chosen university know you will be starting with them in the autumn."

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