If someone had told me in September when I was starting to feel the real pressure of my A-levels, that I would be offered not only a place to study my dream course at Surrey but also a place on an integrated Master’s programme, I would never have believed them.

Like many students, I initially felt uncertain about going through Clearing. There is a lot of pressure surrounding university applications, and Clearing is sometimes portrayed as a “backup option” rather than another route into university. However, my experience showed me that this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, applying through Clearing was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Results day

On results day, I was in my home country, Equatorial Guinea, feeling nervous and overwhelmed. After receiving my grades, I waited for my firm university’s decision while also thinking about my options if things didn’t go to plan.

Although I was accepted into my firm choice, I eventually realised it was no longer the right fit for me. I already knew about the University of Surrey because I had previously received an offer, so I decided to try applying through Clearing to see whether there was still space available on Biochemistry. I thought that if I didn’t try, I would always wonder what could have happened.

My mother and I called the university from Equatorial Guinea, and, despite some signal issues, we eventually connected with the Clearing team. From the very beginning, I felt at ease. The person I spoke to first congratulated me and immediately made me feel comfortable. She worked so efficiently and kindly, saying she wanted me to enjoy my day and celebrate my achievements.

What stood out to me most was how enthusiastic and supportive everyone was. Rather than giving me a rehearsed answer, they genuinely celebrated my hard work. I was even told that my grades were high enough to apply for the integrated master’s programme, which made me feel incredibly proud.

Loving life at Surrey

Now, as a Biochemistry student going into my third year, I can honestly say that Surrey has exceeded my expectations.

One of my favourite things about Surrey has been the balance between academic support and student life. Throughout my degree, I’ve had the opportunity to study fascinating (and admittedly challenging) topics, develop practical laboratory skills, and learn from lecturers who are genuinely enthusiastic about what they teach. Although the course can sometimes feel overwhelming, it has helped me become more independent and confident in my abilities.

Outside of academics, Surrey has a beautiful campus. From the cherry blossom trees outside the library to the lake on the lower campus, with its picnic benches where you can relax by yourself or spend time with friends, it has become a place that genuinely feels like home.

Guildford is also a lovely place to live as a student. It has a safe and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of places to study, eat and spend time with friends.

My advice to you

If I could give advice to students considering Clearing, it would be:

1. Don’t panic. Clearing can feel stressful because everything happens very quickly, but thousands of students successfully find their place every year.

2. Keep an open mind. Life rarely goes exactly to plan, and that’s okay. Sometimes changing direction leads you somewhere even better.

3. Ask questions. The Clearing team is there to support you, so don’t be afraid to ask about your course, accommodation, student life, or anything else you’re unsure about.

4. Trust yourself. It’s easy to compare yourself to other people, but everyone’s university journey is different. Going through Clearing does not put you at a disadvantage.

Looking back now, I don’t see Clearing as a second choice. I see it as the pathway that led me to where I am today. It has allowed me to grow academically and personally, and I’m excited to continue that journey during my final years at Surrey.

If you’re considering Surrey through Clearing, my biggest piece of advice is simple: don’t be afraid. Sometimes all it takes is a leap of faith, and things really do work out the way they’re meant to.

Clearing FAQs

You can access Surrey’s Clearing FAQs here.