Ahead of A-Level Results Day, Kent students and staff share their top tips and advice for prospective students entering Clearing 2022.
On researching ahead…
‘Research Clearing options in advance of Results Day. This will save you time and make the process easier once you know your results. Think about what’s important to you and what you are looking to get from your course e.g., course content, work placements and study abroad opportunities. Look into any alternative courses that you may be interested in too.’ – Ami Solomon, Head of Admissions, Kent’s Marketing, Outreach, Recruitment and Admissions team
On having a supportive environment…
‘It really helps to have a supportive environment around you. Share the process with your friends and family and let them know about this journey you are going on! However, steer clear of nay-sayers that might cause you doubt. This is your choice and you don’t need that kind of negativity!’ – BSc Anthropology student Satouka Basso, studying in the University’s School of Anthropology and Conservation
On preparation…
‘Being prepared is essential. Make sure you have your UCAS ID, qualifications and a list of the courses you are most interested in to hand to ensure a nice swift and easy clearing process. Having everything prepared can help lessen any stress you may feel.’ – Lizzie Cordell, Senior Admissions Manager, Kent’s Marketing, Outreach, Recruitment and Admissions team
On thinking about your future career prospects…
‘When thinking about a university, look at what they offer to help get you the right graduate job for you. Check out placement, internship and year abroad support. Look a bit wider at some of the co-curricular opportunities too such as skills awards, volunteering opportunities, or options to broaden your learning by including additional subjects.’ – James Corbin, Head of Careers and Employability, Kent’s Career and Employability Service
On checking what support and wellbeing services are available…
‘Clearing can be stressful and an emotional time as you will be trying to secure your future. It can also be a positive process as it means you get to focus and prioritise on what it is you want and how you are going to get there. It is really important when considering your options that you look at what support is available at your future institution. Do they offer counselling, do they have waiting lists for accessing disability advisers etc. You may also want to consider what local services are available e.g., can you get access to a GP or a particular type of care you may need if you have long term medical conditions? When you are looking at universities make sure you contact the Wellbeing teams who will be able to help and offer advice that may help you when deciding.’ – Lee Fellows, Deputy Director and Head of Student Support, Kent’s Student Support & Wellbeing team
On looking into accommodation types and availability…
‘Check what accommodation is on offer at your choice of universities and where the accommodation is located in relation to campus, so you are well informed. University accommodation websites with associated blogs and student reviews will give you a good overview.’ – Laura Evans, Marketing and Communications Manager, Kent’s Commercial Services and Estates team
On trusting the process…
‘Try not to stress too much, clearing is a really easy and accessible way of getting onto a course at a university that works for you. It is a scary process sometimes but trust this process. It always works out in the end!’ – Zaid Mahmood, President of Kent Union and BSc Business and Management with Data Analytics student at Kent Business School
On thinking your choices through…
‘When you receive an offer, you will have time to think it over before you make a decision. Take a step back, breathe and think about what you want to do and where you want to do it. Consider the full picture of your choice and go with your instinct.’ – Ami Solomon, Head of Admissions, Kent’s Marketing, Outreach, Recruitment and Admissions team
Visit Kent’s Clearing webpage for more information.