Ayse Enver

Did you always know you wanted to go to university?

I always viewed university as the next logical step to take after finishing my GCSEs and A Levels, but I didn’t really know what subject I wanted to do. After speaking to a teacher in year 12, I realised that I really wanted to work in computing, and that I would need a degree for this. Since then I had my heart set on going to university, studying a subject that I found interesting and hopefully working in a career that I’d enjoy.

Were you aware of clearing before applying? How did you hear about it?

I was aware of that clearing was an option before I applied to university, however, I didn’t know in depth what clearing would mean, or how to access. Luckily my sixth form were prepared to help people access clearing on results day.

Why did you go through clearing?

Unfortunately, my A Level results were not what I was expecting, and I did not make my first two offers as a result. Luckily there were still spaces available at City, and I managed to secure one of these.

How did you find the process of clearing?

I think the nature of results day - months of build-up after exams and then disappointment when you don’t get the grades you were hoping for – means that clearing will always be a stressful situation for anyone. Universities are busy with calls on results day and you be put on hold for a while, with your future seemingly in limbo. However, once the emotions have passed, in retrospect the actual process is quite a simple one: find a university and a course that is on offer, give them a call and hope for the best.

Why did you choose to attend City?

I had visited the university beforehand, so I had some idea of what it was like. City was actually one of my choices in UCAS and I nearly chose it for my insurance choice, so it was definitely a serious option from day one.

How do you feel about clearing now?

Clearing provides an excellent second chance to people like me who may have had difficult circumstances over the course of their studies. I’ve had such a good year at City so far, and I can’t wait for the rest of my degree. Clearing provides spaces at universities that you may not have considered, or that did not end up as your final two choices. Some people end up on courses that they were not originally considering, but have not looked back since. It really is a fantastic tool.

How have you found your time on the course?

I’ve made great friends, learnt a lot and achieved very good results in my first year. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience so far. I’m very grateful that clearing was available on the day, as it’s meant that I’m having a great time and really enjoying life at City.

What do you want to do in the future?

I’m not too sure yet, but I want to go into software engineering at some point. However I am also an Army Reserve, and there is a tri-service cyber security unit within the armed forces that looks interesting to me should I decide to continue on a military path in the future. I think I’ll see what is available when the time comes.

What would you say to a prospective City student about to go through clearing?

Go for it, and try not to stress yourself out too much (easier said than done!). Once you start and get into the swing of your degree, you’ll make a lot of friends and have a great time here. City is a very welcoming place and there are always options for you, and if plan A does not work out, don’t think that plan B will not work out better for you in the long run!