Rewriting your future: Lydiah and Ozair's Clearing stories
By: Communications
Many students across the UK will find out what’s next for them later this week when they receive their A-Level results on Thursday (15 August).
For some students, this day will mark the next step of accepting an offer from their chosen university. Yet for others, this time will become a chance for redirection, to explore new possibilities through Clearing: the system used by UK universities to fill course places that are still open.
Whether you didn’t get the grades you were expecting, have only just decided to come to university, or have had second thoughts about where to study – Clearing is an opportunity for you to get a place at university if you don’t have one.
Lydiah Malova and Ozair Zamir, two current students who embarked on their university journeys via Clearing, have shared their different experiences of applying and reasons for choosing UEA, in addition to offering personal advice for prospective students heading down a similar path.
Lydiah Malova
“Sometimes unexpected paths can lead to the best destinations.”
Lydiah Malova is a first-year Computer Science student at UEA. After receiving grades lower than she hoped for, Lydiah was at first disheartened and felt she had to act fast to secure a place at university.
Tell us about your personal experience of Clearing.
“It was a whirlwind of emotions – nervousness, excitement, and extreme uncertainty. My main worries were whether I could secure a spot quickly enough at a place I’d enjoy, and how Clearing would affect my accommodation options.
“It was a tough moment, but I knew I still wanted to pursue a degree in Computer Science so after taking some time to calm myself, I jumped into the Clearing process. On the day, I remember grabbing my phone, some breakfast and my laptop, and setting up a little command centre at the kitchen table. Once I got an offer from UEA, it felt like a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.
“Fortunately, everything fell into place smoothly. Looking back, Clearing was a bit of a rollercoaster, but it ultimately led me to the right place.”
Why did you choose UEA?
“UEA really stood out to me. Firstly, the Clearing team was incredibly supportive and reassuring. They made me feel welcomed and valued, which was really comforting in a stressful time.
“Secondly, UEA's strong reputation for Computer Science. The course structure seemed robust, with a great balance of theory and practical application, and the facilities were top-notch.
“The campus and surrounding environment also seemed vibrant and welcoming. I wanted a university experience that offered not just academic excellence, but also a supportive and inclusive community. Norwich sounded like a great place to live as a student – a city that's lively but not overwhelming, with a good mix of cultural activities and green spaces.”
What advice would you give to someone considering Clearing?
“Clearing can be a stressful time, but it's also a time of new opportunities and exciting possibilities, so keep an open mind and stay optimistic. Remember that Clearing is an opportunity, not a setback.
“Research your backup options. Before Results Day, do some research on alternative universities and courses that interest you. That way, if things don't go as planned, you already have a list of options to consider.
“Be open to exploring new courses or universities that you might not have considered before. Sometimes unexpected opportunities can lead to amazing experiences and career paths.
“If your results are not what you expected, don't panic. Clearing is a great opportunity to find a course that suits you. Take a deep breath and start making calls to universities offering courses you're interested in.”
Did joining through Clearing change your university experience at all?
“It added a unique dimension to my university experience. Initially, I worried it might feel like a setback, but in reality, it opened doors I hadn't even considered.
“For one, it made me more adaptable and resilient. The process of navigating Clearing, researching options, and making quick decisions boosted my problem-solving skills and confidence.
“Clearing also introduced me to UEA, a place I might not have chosen initially but which turned out to be the perfect fit. The community here is incredibly welcoming, and the support systems in place are fantastic. I've made amazing friends and found opportunities that align perfectly with my interests and career goals.
“Starting my journey through Clearing gave me a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to be at UEA. It’s a constant reminder that sometimes unexpected paths can lead to the best destinations.”
Ozair Zamir
“If you don’t do as well as expected, you have other choices.”
Ozair Zamir is a second-year Biochemistry student at UEA.
After initially wanting to take a gap year before university, Ozair decided last minute to apply after receiving his grades.
Tell us about your personal experience of Clearing.
“On A-Level results day, I went onto the UCAS Clearing website and looked at biochemistry courses, as I was already considering doing this before applying for university. I saw that UEA was offering a good course and that I had the grade requirements to apply, so I did.
“I was worried but also excited about applying for university. There was some pressure for time on the day as I had to write a personal statement in a few hours and submit it that same day.
“I was happy to get on my course through Clearing as I’m able to spend a year abroad studying, which is something I always wanted to do, and still obtain an MSci – a bachelor's and master's degree – within a four-year degree.”
Why did you choose UEA?
“I visited UEA on the Clearing open day and made my decision after that. I liked the fact that the campus was quite rural and that there were many student jobs available with good pay. As of right now, I am a student ambassador, and I have enjoyed every part of my job.
“As my degree is in biochemistry, I thought it would be great to have a School which values my degree, and UEA has great biology and chemistry departments. The advertisements for applying for internships with the John Innes Centre were also interesting, as I could get hands-on experience while studying to boost my CV and make me more employable in the future.
“The campus was the complete opposite from what I originally wanted – to go to a city university and have a very busy university life. But after being here for a year and a half, I am glad to have made the decision for a campus university as everything is in one place and there’s so many students on campus.”
What advice would you give to someone considering Clearing?
“Research potential universities that have lower grade requirements than the ones you’ve already applied for so, if you don’t do as well as expected, you have other choices. Read through the modules they offer and see if it’s the sort of syllabus that you will enjoy.
“Look for any virtual open day and accommodation tours, as well as information for backup universities before A-level results day.
“Make sure to have a personal statement ready before Clearing. Writing on the day in an hour was very stressful for me, but I was able to do it – especially with the help of my Higher Education Officer at school.
“Find out what each university’s stance on student welfare is – from what I have experienced, UEA is great with student wellbeing, and they offer to help a lot with queries. This can also be achieved by looking at the student university league tables to see the student satisfaction for the university you’re considering applying for.”
Did joining through Clearing change your university experience at all?
“I’d say that either way – applying through UCAS or applying through Clearing – had no difference on my university experience. The only difference was that the Clearing process was much more fast-paced than the conventional application process, as you’re condensing months' worth of work and considering university options into a few days.
“When you arrive at university, you also find that no one really cares how you got there, whether that be through UCAS, Clearing or alternative pathways. Most students are simply excited to live away from home and start their new course!”