Freya Lloyd
- Subject area
- Geography and Environment
My clearing experience
In 2020, I was preparing to go to university, studying A-levels in Geography, Biology, and Fine Art. I had applied to several universities through UCAS, including two courses at Loughborough University: BSc Geography and Sports Science, and BSc Geography. Loughborough, my dream university, offered me a place, but I chose to decline it to reduce exam pressure and instead firmed my unconditional offer from Reading University to study Geography. On A-level results day, I received ABC grades and regretted not accepting Loughborough’s offer as I had always wanted to study Geography and Sports Science there.
Determined to pursue my dream, I called clearing and was thrilled to secure a place on the course at Loughborough. A couple of weeks later during an unprecedented time due to covid, the government adjusted our grades, and I received AAB, which would have originally qualified me for my dream course without going through clearing. This experience taught me the importance of aiming high and believing in myself, but also understanding that there are always alternative paths if things don't go as planned.
The process was relatively straightforward. If you prepare in advance and research into some courses you like at other universities, it gives you a good starting point. From here you can speak to someone on the phone and work out what options are possible for you.
The only stressful part was accomodation as going through clearing meant that I was not guaranteed accommodation on campus. However, The accommodation office were really helpful and I ended up being added to the waiting list for Falkner Eggington. I ended up having a great time and it all worked out in the end.
Loughborough was like no other University I had come across. The atmosphere, community and facilities are second to none.
My Loughborough experience
You do enter the Loughborough bubble from the first time you visit and are welcomed with open arms. The way that the University is climbing the league tables so fast speaks for itself. The research, teaching and extracurricular activities are something special.
I love being able to mix with many different groups of people. I love how passionate the lectures come across in their teaching as modules are built around their research interests. I love how many practical opportunities I have had including field trips and fitness testing.
I have had the opportunity to volunteer on multiple committees as a media rep. This has sparked my passion for social media marketing, and I have now landed a graduate role in this field as a result.
My advice to future students
If you think it’s for you, aim high and get that application in. Look through the modules and other course information online to make sure they align with your interests.
If you are applying through clearing, stay relaxed and make sure you are prepared. Research into the different courses available at different universities is the best thing you can do to make the experience go smoothly for yourself. Try not to worry as everything works itself out in the end.