The Morning After Results Day

For most students, Clearing is a mad rush that begins the moment they open their results. For me, it didn’t quite work out that way.

I’d already accepted a place at the University of Sheffield and had spent the night before celebrating with friends. I told everyone, “That’s it, I’m off to Sheffield!” It felt like everything was sorted. But when I woke up the next morning (slightly hungover), I saw an email that completely changed my plans.

It was from the Queen’s University Belfast admissions team. I’d applied to a degree apprenticeship programme earlier in the year but had been placed on the reserve list. The email let me know that I’d now been offered a place. I honestly had to reread it a few times to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.

Why I Decided to Change Direction

I hadn’t planned to go through Clearing; I already had a solid offer and a university I liked. But the apprenticeship programme at Queen’s was something I’d been excited about. The structure of the programme meant I’d study as a regular Software Engineering student during term time and then spend the summers working in industry. It was the best of both worlds - academic learning combined with real-world experience.

I knew opportunities like that didn’t come around often. Even though changing my plans was a bit of a shock (especially after telling everyone I was going to Sheffield), I realised this was the right path for me, both personally and professionally.

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The Clearing Process at Queen’s

What stood out to me was how smooth Queen’s made the process. The day after I got the email, a member of the admissions team gave me a call. He walked me through every step of accepting the new offer through UCAS Clearing. It was clear, straightforward, and most importantly, not stressful. Having someone guide me through made all the difference.

"What stood out to me was how smooth Queen’s made the process."

I was also advised on how to apply for accommodation. As a GB (Great Britain) student, Queen’s guaranteed me a place, and they made sure I got the accommodation I was hoping for. It was a huge weight off my mind knowing that side of things was sorted.

Moving to Belfast

Although I have family in Northern Ireland, moving to Belfast still felt like a significant change. I wasn’t sure how different things would be or how quickly I’d settle in. But once I arrived, I found the city welcoming.

Read our student guide to Belfast and NI

Belfast has this great balance. It’s not too big, so it doesn’t feel overwhelming, but there’s always something going on. Whether it’s exploring the city centre, finding a new coffee spot, or checking out student events, there’s plenty to do.

Settling In

It took me a few weeks to properly adjust. I attended as many social events as I could, joined a couple of societies, and simply said “yes” to things, and before long, I started to feel settled.

Making Friends on My Course

Being a part of the apprenticeship programme helped too, as I was immediately part of a smaller group within the wider Software Engineering course. While we all follow the same curriculum during term time, the summer placement element made for a great way to connect with others in the same boat.

It gave me a smaller circle to start with, and from there, I naturally got to know more people across the course. Group projects, lab sessions, and even just sitting around after lectures made it easy to start conversations. Everyone was in the same position, trying to find their footing, and that made it easier to build friendships.

How to Make Friends at University

Looking Back

Now that I’m heading into my placement year, I can confidently say that going through Clearing was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It wasn’t part of the original plan, but I’m so glad it happened. I’ve grown in confidence, made great friends, and found a course that suits my learning style.

"I can confidently say that going through Clearing was one of the best decisions I’ve made."

If you're considering applying to Queen’s through Clearing, don’t be afraid to go for it. Things might not go exactly as you expect, but sometimes that’s the best thing that can happen.

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Clearing at Queen's

Information for GB students

Your Student Guide

Sam Owen Software Engineering | Undergraduate Student | Wales, UK Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a Software Engineering student at Queen’s, about to start my third-year placement. I came to Queen’s through Clearing and moved over from Wales. I’m part of the degree apprenticeship programme, which means I study during term time and get to work in industry over the summer.