As I head into my final year of university, I can’t help but think back to where it all started. If you told the 2023 version of me that I’d pack up and move across the Irish Sea, I’m not sure I would’ve believed you. However, here I am now, studying a degree that I love, ready for the next step of my life.

Results Day

My university experience at Queen’s began in a more unconventional way to what many would have experienced. I went through the common steps of applying through UCAS for different universities, and at this point Queen’s wasn’t even an option for me. As results day approached, I had a gut feeling that I had not got the results I needed to achieve a place at the university close to my home, so I started searching further afield.

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As I expected, on results day I did not get the results I was predicted or expected which was sadly the case for many students across the country in the 2023 A level year. Safe to say, I was heartbroken. I felt I had worked so hard for so many months with nothing to show for it.

The clearing call

Many students were in a similar situation to myself so I remember my Sixth Form college set up a clearing room so you could call up universities and do research. The main thing I remember from this experience were the parents looking so concerned. I don’t know if it was meant to be, but the first place I called up was Queen's. After seeing places were available on the History course, I thought I may as well call up and give it a try.

"The process was super easy and not intimidating whatsoever."

When I first got through to the Clearing Call Centre, the person I spoke to was so friendly and efficient, congratulating me on my results, even though I felt negative about them. The process was super easy and not intimidating whatsoever. On this phone call, a follow up phone call conversation was organised with a current Queen’s student specifically from Great Britain. This was to discuss tips on moving and what to expect when coming to Belfast.

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After the clearing process, I was then given access to a portal to apply for accommodation which I then booked after my conversation with the current student as I was able to ask what each accommodation was like from a real student perspective.

Visiting Belfast

Independently, my family and I made the decision to book a day trip to Belfast. We flew from Manchester with the flights only costing £30 return and only taking 30 minutes. Experiencing this journey was super reassuring as it made me realise how easy I could get home if need be before moving permanently.

"I was able to see what the city of Belfast was like and I remember thinking that there was such a friendly atmosphere."

When booking to come to Belfast, I got in touch with the university to organise a tour of the campus and accommodation. This was the best thing I did as I got a real feel for the university and also got an idea of what to bring to the accommodation in September. Not only this, but I was able to see what the city of Belfast was like and I remember thinking that there was such a friendly atmosphere.

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Making the move

When moving to Belfast, I took two big suitcases and flew over but I know many people from Great Britain who took the ferry from Liverpool, Stranraer or Fishguard. Although you can bring as much as you want on the ferry, it is substantially more expensive than bringing two suitcases on a flight. I ordered click and collect to a local supermarket for essentials like a duvet and pillows but I know that Queen’s did a pack which included all the uni essentials.

I remember arriving on that first evening to flat 3 Ash Avenue and being super nervous as I didn’t know what to expect. The flats in Elms Village consisted of a three-floored building with 10 people on each floor. All three floors integrated and got on immediately. You soon realise that everyone is in the same situation and everybody feels nervous.

Although the start to my university experience was unconventional, I am so grateful that I went to Queen’s, and so far, have enjoyed every minute.

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Clearing at Queen's

Information for GB students

Your Student Guide

Alex Owen History | Undergraduate Student | England, UK My name's Alex and I’m from the North-West of England. I am going into 3rd year of studying History. I enjoy running and I am working towards the Belfast Half Marathon next year. In my spare time I love travelling and discovering new places especially low-key locations in Europe. I am loving student life in Belfast and would highly recommend.