Hello, my name is Natalia and I am a student at the University of Surrey, studying BSc Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence. My journey from applying to universities, to securing a place at Surrey through Clearing was intensive, but I want to share with you my positive experience with Surrey as someone who was offered a place through Clearing and how my time at Surrey has been so far for me.
Why I chose Surrey
The reason I chose Surrey through clearing was because it is a high-ranking university at 15th place in the UK to study Computer Science. Statistics where 95% of the computer science and electronic engineering graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating and were very promising, convincing me that my choice to study at Surrey for the next few years would be incredibly valuable.
How Surrey supported me through Clearing
The process to getting to study the course I am doing today was stress-free as Surrey were highly supportive in getting me there. When calling up Surrey on results day, I remember the warm tone of the Clearing operators voice and how simple and clear it was to secure my spot as Surrey. I appreciated that alongside my offer that, I could have a professional from the Computer Science department contact me to explain what I would be gaining from the course. This highly insightful for me, giving me greater confidence in my choice to study at Surrey.
Even though I wanted to study BSc Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, there was only the option for me to apply for BSc Computer Science, however when I spoke to the Clearing operator, they said that I could easily apply to change my course once I was at the university. This ended up being true as once I did apply to change my course, the process to apply was easy-going, with the university getting back to me quickly within a couple days and making the necessary changes.
My time at Surrey so far
Since studying Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at Surrey for the past year, my experience has been meaningful where I have developed a valuable skillset for my future employment. Not only that, the university offers a wide variety of societies/clubs to participate in for example, I am apart of CompSoc which is the Computer Science society.
The community of CompSoc has allowed me to connect and make friends with those from the same year or above but also provide opportunities such as an insight into Microsoft, allowing me to make headway in my career. For 2026/27, I am extremely grateful to be elected as President of CompSoc and can’t wait to meet those of you that join Surrey this 2026/27 year. My experience so far makes me look forward to seeing what my future holds for me at Surrey for the next few years to come.
Advice from someone who has been there
My advice for someone who is considering coming to Surrey through Clearing is simple: just be yourself and go in with full confidence. I know the clearing process can be overwhelming and create doubts in your mind but don’t let that hold you back. The staff at Surrey are approachable and they guide you throughout every step of the way. Don’t let Clearing define your university experience, think of it as a different direction to the same destination as once you arrive at Surrey, you will thrive just as much as everyone else.
I hoped that the information I have given you has helped you to feel more assured in picking the University of Surrey as a place to apply for through Clearing and I look forward to seeing you here!
