Libby Childs

Why did you enter Clearing?

I entered Clearing as I made the decision that I no longer wished to attend my first-choice university which was Nottingham Trent. On results day I wanted to change to my insurance choice however I could not do this unless I went through Clearing. As I entered Clearing I started to research universities that were similar to my insurance choice. Edge Hill wasn’t included in my top five university choices, however on results day as I was researching universities I found that it offered the course that I was interested in, so I looked into the University further. I originally chose a degree that was just Politics, but during my research I came across the option of doing a combined degree in Politics and Criminology and realised that this was better suited to me.

What was your perception of Clearing before you went through it?

Before I applied through Clearing, I saw it as a negative and nerve-racking experience as I had very little knowledge of how the process worked. I thought that I might not end up even going to university, especially as I had a place at a university but I had declined it. Instead, it was the opposite and I found it to be a really positive experience.

What factors made you settle on the course you chose?

I chose my course because I liked the idea of doing two subjects within one course. The Politics and Criminology degree has many interesting modules as well as guest speakers and opportunities to expand your learning further.

Did you do any research about Clearing prior to receiving your results to prepare?

I knew that I had changed my mind about where to study before results day however I didn’t do much research before then into what university I was going to change to. It was only on results day once I had entered the Clearing process that I started to research other universities, and that’s when I came across Edge Hill. Once I found Edge Hill I fell in love with it and decided that I was going to apply there through Clearing.

Did you attend a Clearing Open Day and, if so, how was it?

I had the opportunity to attend an Open Day although I didn’t go to it because of how far away I lived away from the University. However, there was a large amount of information online about the University and any questions I had were answered by looking on the website and watching the information videos provided.

Was there a specific reason you chose to apply to Edge Hill in Clearing?

Aside from my course, there were many factors as to why I chose Edge Hill including the accommodation and location. I loved the fact that Edge hill was a campus-based university and how easy it is to find where your lectures are. The accommodation at Edge Hill is amazing too, especially compared to the other universities I had applied for. It is great value for money and the living space gives you great opportunities to meet new people and enjoy a good social life.

How did you find the process of applying to Edge Hill in Clearing?

The process for applying was so simple and very easy. There is nothing that I would do differently. Once I had sent my application off to Edge Hill they had responded within an hour. I waited a day to see if any of my other choices responded. The day after results day I accepted my place at Edge Hill and soon after that I received emails about choosing my accommodation and transferring my details. These emails where very simple to follow and the steps for transferring my details were easy and simple too.

Did you find a place to live easily?

After securing my place, my main priority was accommodation. This process was easy as there are a lot of options available and information about the halls. When applying, the University asks you to rank your accommodation choices from least favourable to most favourable. Within three days of starting my application process I had received my room and halls. Although it was not my first choice of accommodation, I was still very pleased with the accommodation I had received. There are multiple ways that the University can help you change your accommodation so if you are not happy with the halls you are given there is no need to worry.

Have you enjoyed your course and time at university so far?

I have just finished my first year at Edge Hill University and I can say that I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I have had a wide range of opportunities whilst studying here as well as meeting lots of new friends. The location of this university means that there is plenty to do off campus with the major city of Liverpool only being a train ride away.

What advice would you give to students who find themselves in Clearing?

My advice to anyone considering going through Clearing would be don’t worry. At the end of the day, it will be a positive experience. It’s about you personally and where you would like to study, and you have to do what is best for you and your situation. Edge Hill University will support you through the process and help you whenever you need. The process overall is simple and easy, and the University is there to ensure that throughout your studies you have the best experience for you.