My advice to someone who is considering applying through clearing would be:

• Always look out for calls and emails from admissions staff, and if you have any questions or concerns, just get in touch and speak to someone at the university – it really helps. Even if it’s something you think is small, this is a new challenge and just because it may be obvious to someone else, doesn’t mean it is to you.
• Also, if you’re feeling a bit like an outsider (first of all, don’t!) just keep reminding yourself that you have absolutely earnt your place, and Loughborough really want you to be there. There is nothing inferior about coming through clearing, I rarely even think about it anymore.
• I guess it’s advice for university on the whole, but just engage in everything, say yes to everything, and integrate yourself within the Loughborough family. You’ll soon feel at home.