After completing a foundation year and the first year of a computing course at another university, I realised it wasn’t right for me and needed a change of direction. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do at that point, and was weighing up taking a gap year, doing an apprenticeship or going to another university to study something different.

It really helped to talk things through with my dad and his partner. They encouraged me to go back to university rather than go straight into work, when I didn’t have a clear path I wanted to take.

My Clearing story

In late August I looked on the UCAS Clearing app and searched through the course listings to find one I was interested in. I only applied to Manchester Met, as the Business Psychology course was unique and nowhere else had anything like it. It also meant I could live in Manchester – a city I knew I loved.

I called the Clearing hotline, gave my qualifications, and told the girl about my university background and how I’d withdrawn from my previous course. She told me because of my experience, I would be offered a place! I then had a friendly chat with the course tutor, who gave me great advice and was very supportive. We spoke about what things I had struggled with at my previous university, and I was reassured of the support I would get here so felt confident about joining.

When I got off the phone, I was so happy. It was a weight off my shoulders to finally know what I was going to do, which meant I could focus and get excited about my future.

My university experience

I chose Business Psychology as I had enjoyed psychology at A-level, and this course seemed to be the perfect mix of psychology and the wider world of work.

The tutors here are very helpful and provide constant support when I need it. They always try to bring the best out of students, and they show that they care, which feels great.

The modules are really interesting - I especially enjoy the Psychology in Practice module as it shows you how you will use the course in the outside job world, which is great for learning about your future career prospects so you can start to prepare for life after graduation.

My advice

Mentally prepare for university by getting all the equipment you need, like fresh stationery – it really helps you feel motivated! Because I was living at home, I also cleared my room and set up a nice desk space which made the environment a much more inviting space to study.