³ÉÈËÂÛ̳

In fact hundreds of students a year decide to opt for a different course through the university clearing process for a number of different reasons.

We look at three successful student stories from Leicester and suggest a few tips to keep you ahead of the clearing game!

The Design Student

Reshma Chudasama, age 24 from Leicester, graduated from De Montfort University this year with a degree in Interior Design.

After completing her A Levels at Leicester's Gateway Sixth Form College she initially took up a course in Graphic Design at a different university, but found it not to her liking so returned home.

"I discovered that DMU offered a degree in Interior Design and this was perfect for me because it meant I was able to stay at home to study.

"One project I worked on with several other students from the course was for the ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳, we were asked to design and make a fundraiser totaliser for the Ruby Rainbow Appeal.

"We faced many problems during the making but this gave us a great insight into what it would be like to make quick decisions when working in the design industry.

"I've had a great experience, having learnt so much, and feel that I've grown as a person, now knowing what I want from life."

The Mature Student

Joanne Withers, age 34 from Narborough, graduated from De Montfort University with a degree in Textile and Knitwear Technology in 1996 but in 2004 decided to leave behind her job in the industry and study for a career which allows her to be more creative.

Joanne said, "I had negative preconceptions of the clearing process; I thought it would be long and drawn out and very time consuming, however I was completely wrong.

"Although I made the decision to go to university quite late everything was very efficient and organised.

"I definitely made the right choice coming back to DMU and would recommend the university and in particular the photography course to anyone interested."

The Student Ambassador

Lisa Hopkins, age 20 from Narborough, has just completed her second year in Human Psychology at De Montfort University.

Lisa said: "I was really stressed when I first got my results and realised I hadn't quite made it into my first choice uni.

"I looked through the newspapers to search for places and started making some phone calls.

"I was very happy DMU was able to offer me a place as the content of the course here appealed to me and I had already decided I wanted to study close to home."

Top Clearing Tips!

• If you get the grades you wanted do the UCAS paperwork immediately then call the university if you have any queries.

• If you don't quite make the grades, phone anyway.Ìý Other factors like your interview, portfolio, personal statement or reference may have benefited you.

• If your results are really unexpected – don't panic.Ìý Investigate other courses or other universities.Ìý Don't go on holiday until you have a place!

• Take your time and seek advice. Check out the newspapers, TV, radio and websites for vacancy listings. Gather university literature and try and visit your chosen university.Ìý

• Speak to friends, teachers, parents and careers advisors.Ìý They can offer good advice: take it on board, but go with your choice.

• Be flexible: consider re-taking or re-applying if you are set on one course.

• Have all your UCAS paperwork handy and take notes of what you are told.

• Remember that lots of people have been in the same situation as you in the past; they have good degrees and successful careers.