Clearing: Phoebe’s Story

Sports Exercise and Science student Phoebe began considering Clearing before Results Day, after deciding her original university choices were no longer right for her. She remembered UA92 from a UCAS fair, where its energy, ethos, and career-focused opportunities stood out.

After securing her place, receiving a congratulatory call from Gary Neville confirmed she had made the right choice. She was particularly attracted to UA92’s structured timetable and practical approach, which allowed her to balance university with part-time work.

Phoebe’s advice is simple: visit universities in person and trust your instincts about where feels right.

When did you first consider Clearing?

I considered Clearing before Results Day as I had changed my mind on the options I had originally applied for. I thought back to a UCAS fair and remembered UA92. Their stand stood out to me along with the courses and opportunities that came with it. I originally didn’t want to go to university and this just felt like the best option for me. It turned out to be the best decision I made.

How did you feel on Results Day?

When Results Day came along, I was nervous about not getting the grades. When I knew I’d got into UA92, I was beaming ear to ear ready to start a new journey. I also got a very unexpected phone call from Gary Neville congratulating me and I just knew that I had made the right decision and felt so welcomed into the university.

Why did you choose UA92?

I chose UA92 as their ethos and energy at the UCAS fair intrigued me. I liked the fact they have no traditional end of year exams and work on a fixed timetable. This meant I could plan my days and get a job which is one of the things I was originally worried about when considering uni. I kept thinking ‘how am I going to earn?’. This was not a problem due to the structure of the day and being able to plan in advance.

What was your experience with the Clearing process itself?

My experience with the Clearing process was so simple. I didn’t go through Clearing the traditional way as I had decided before Results Day that UA92 was the one for me. I had to decline all my offers on UCAS and reapply to UA92. The UA92 staff helped me through the whole process to make it as straight forward and stress free as possible.

What has been the highlight of your UA92 journey so far?

My highlight at UA92 was definitely getting a welcome from Gary Neville, it put my mind at ease and confirmed I had made the right decision. But UA92 doesn’t do anything by halves. When I moved into university I was welcomed by Steph who already knew my name before I had even walked through the door.

What advice would you give to a student who might be applying through Clearing this year?

Definitely go to the uni and have a look. You may think it looks really good on paper and get there and not like it at all. I went to two Open Days – one I hated the feel of and the other (UA92) made me feel actually excited to start.

Find out more about Clearing on our Clearing Hub.