Andreja is studying BSc (Hons) Psychology at the University of Cumbria, drawn by the subject’s broad career prospects and her personal interest in understanding people and behaviour. After missing her first-choice university offer on results day, she found a supportive and welcoming environment at Cumbria, transforming a challenging moment into a confident and positive start to university life.
What degree are you studying at Cumbria and what year did you apply through Clearing? Why did you choose to study your course – what or who inspired you?
I’m currently studying BSc (Hons) Psychology at the University of Cumbria. During Sixth Form, I felt quite behind in terms of knowing what I wanted to do in the future, and I went in circles choosing between History, Politics and Psychology as a field of study at university. Yet as the A Level course progressed, it became clear that Psychology was what I wanted to go into, especially because of the broad range of careers I could explore with this degree.
Could you tell us more about how you came to apply through Clearing? Why did you choose the University of Cumbria?
My journey to applying to Cumbria is probably very underwhelming. I missed my offer to study at my first-choice university (AAA > BBC), and at the time for 18-year-old me, this was the end of the world. I told my entire family I wasn’t going to uni, but they encouraged me to at least have a look through my options. I scrolled through the Clearing section and found the University of Cumbria.
Did you understand how Clearing worked before you went through the process? If so, what did you know about it?
I knew more or less what Clearing was and how to do it, and that on results day, if UCAS said “eligible for clearing” then I didn’t get into my firm or insurance universities. That’s what ended up happening, and I think I was quite lost past that point of the Clearing process.
How was your Clearing experience at the University of Cumbria? How did you apply?
It was genuinely one of the kindest, most understanding experiences. I rang the Clearing hotline and one of the module lecturers for Psychology picked up the phone. She was so understanding and walked me through the whole Clearing process, helping me apply to Cumbria.
Following our call, she gave me her staff email and told me I could email at any point if I had any questions about the university or Clearing. Considering I was moving up from London, the lecturer said she was more than happy to show me around Carlisle, which just made me think “woah, they really go above and beyond.” This made my decision to apply here super easy.
I’d rung another university before Cumbria, but I was put through to voicemail and later received an offer, so I didn’t want to go to a university that wouldn’t even talk to prospective students.
Do you have any advice for students applying to university through Clearing?
Don’t stress about it, which is easier said than done! But honestly, it’s not the end of the world, and there will always be people to support you, especially at Cumbria. I was of this view during the Clearing journey and still am of this view now at the end of my first year.
What has (have) been your favourite experience(s) at the University of Cumbria?
Just getting to know all of the people who have come from around the UK, listening to the lecturers’ experiences, and being given opportunities to work with them to expand our knowledge.
I’ve also greatly enjoyed the talks that were set up to help the cohort decide what they want to do once university is over, which was helpful because even though it’s early in our university career, knowing what to expect is greatly useful.
What’s been the most difficult obstacle you’ve overcome in your student journey?
I think the most difficult obstacle I’ve overcome on my journey is probably getting used to being so far away from home – moving up from London at 18 was difficult; however, the support system that was available through friendships was incredible and helped me to settle in. I also slightly struggled with working out how to write at the university level, yet this was easily sorted through feedback from lecturers after assignments that were greatly detailed and very helpful!
What do you enjoy most about your course?
I really enjoy the depth of information that we cover and that we have lectures dedicated to future career possibilities – especially for Psychology, where we were taught about the differences between psychologists, which really gave me a good idea of the field that I would like to go into in the future.
How have your tutors supported you during your studies?
My tutors have been very supportive throughout my studies. They have always been approachable and willing to answer questions or provide extra guidance when needed. Their feedback on assignments has helped me improve my academic writing and confidence, and regular tutorials have helped me stay motivated and on track with my studies.
How is university life beyond your studies?
Beyond my studies, university life has been a positive experience. I have enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds, spending time with friends, and becoming more independent. It has helped me develop important life skills alongside my academic work.
What do you enjoy the most about student life at your campus/in the area?
What I enjoy most about student life is the sense of community and the balance between academic and social experiences. I have enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds, spending time on campus, and having access to local cafés, shops, and activities in the area. The environment has helped me feel more independent while still feeling supported throughout my studies.
What would be your top tips for people thinking of doing the same course as you?
My top advice for people considering this course would be to stay organised and keep on top of deadlines from the beginning, as the workload can build up quickly. It is also important to engage with lectures and seminars consistently rather than leaving revision until later.
Once on the course, I would recommend making use of tutor support and feedback, as this can really help improve confidence and academic skills. I would also encourage students to balance their studies with rest and social time, as maintaining a healthy routine makes university life much more manageable and enjoyable.
What are your career plans, and how is your course preparing you for your future career?
My career goal is to become a Clinical Psychologist. My course is helping prepare me for this by developing my understanding of psychology, research methods, critical thinking, and communication skills. We have also had career-focused lectures and tutorials, which have helped me better understand the steps needed to pursue a career in clinical psychology, including further study and relevant experience. Speaking with tutors about my career plans has given me clearer direction and helped me feel more prepared for the future.
Find your place in Clearing
Applying to the University of Cumbria through Clearing is a great way to discover new opportunities and find the perfect course for you. Visit our Clearing Hub for more information about our courses, the application process, and your next steps.