Aalok’s Clearing experience shows it’s never too late to rethink your path

Exam results day isn't too late to have a change of heart about where you want to head for university.

Accounting and Finance student, Aalok Gohil came to the University of Leicester through Clearing last September after re-evaluating his first choice of university.

Aalok, who is from Letchworth Garden City in Hertfordshire, said: “I decided to go through Clearing because my first choice of university was an awfully long way away, so I wanted to go to a university that was a little bit closer to home.”

He added: “Leicester felt close enough to home for me to visit family without much trouble, but far enough away to enjoy a proper sense of independence.”

Remembering A-level results day, Aalok said: “After you get your results, its usually just shock and horror for a few minutes and then just contemplating how you move forward and what to do after that.”

He said: “I looked at the UCAS hub, I looked around at some of the other universities that were in the region that I wanted to study and the courses that they offered.

“Leicester popped up and I thought, 'Ok this is a very well-respected university,' and so I dialled the number.”

Discussing the University of Leicester's Clearing process, Aalok said: “I was able to speak to somebody very quickly. Usually, you are kept on hold which feels like you have been waiting for an age, but I was able to speak to somebody within five or ten minutes.

“The entire process was done by about 10am so after you have got your results, it was done very quickly.”

Describing the city of Leicester as a place to live and study, Aalok said: “Leicester is an amazing university. It's got so much culture, so many societies – there are hundreds at the Students’ Union that you can join.

“There is an amazing library, there's a gym that is incredible and we have Victoria Park right next to campus. It is a really beautiful city to live in.”

Discussing his course, Aalok said: “It has been both interesting and rewarding. I've enjoyed a range of modules, from management accounting to finance, and I like that there are plenty of chances to explore topics more deeply through independent study.

“The teaching has been clear and supportive, and the content feels practical as well as academic.”

Aalok's advice to students considering Clearing is: “Clearing can open doors you might not have considered before. Your route to university doesn't need to be the most direct one for it to be the right one.”

All courses available via Clearing are on the website. The website also includes a live chat function, links to live information events, a guide to applying, answers to frequently asked questions, information for parents and more.

Applicants who have their grades can call 0116 373 6000 where staff can chat through the options or contact us on WhatsApp by clicking the link on our website. The lines are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Those waiting for results, can call or use WhatsApp between 7am and 9pm on results day (Thursday 14 August). On Friday 15 August lines are open 8am to 6pm.

The University offers guaranteed University-managed accommodation if applicants apply before Monday 1 September.