Clearing success story: Plumpton College

What degree had you originally applied for and where?

I haven’t applied anywhere yet, was going to take a gap year as I wasn’t sure about going to university or what course to study. 

What is your degree, and where are you studying?

I’m studying a foundation degree (FdSc) in Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation at Plumpton College. They are affiliated with the University of Greenwich so it’s the best of both worlds really. I get to use the lovely facilities at Plumpton, the campus is really beautiful, and we have access to the Animal Education Centre and work with some exotic species. The fact that my degree is validated by Greenwich University adds a level of gravitas to my degree. 

Why did you enter Clearing?

Well, it’s a funny story really, I was going to travel but then read about animal conservation and I’ve always liked the idea of going into conservation. I saw a video on social about Plumpton students traveling to South Africa as part of their course and something just clicked. I decided to apply via Clearing and was hopeful that with my BTEC grades, I could still get a place on the course. I was delighted when I found out I could start the degree at Plumpton! 

What factors made you finally settle on the course you chose?

I looked at different animal conservation and zoology courses out there. For me it was important to get some hands-on experience with different animal species as part of my course. I also looked at accommodation and travel arrangements and choose my course based on that really. I also spoke to the course tutor about the assessments, I don’t like exams, but you can’t always avoid these at university level. I get a lot of support from my course tutor so that’s great. 

Did you find a place to live easily?

Yes, the college offers accommodation, but I chose to stay at home and use the bus which is a good option for me. 

Have you enjoyed your course and time at uni?

I’ve had a great first year, don’t get me wrong, university study is hard. You have to be super organised and manage your time. But I’ve made great friends on my course, and we have a really good time even during assessments. The college environment is different from a big university campus, we’re lucky to be studying where we are, it’s a lovely place with lots of opportunities to use the surrounding countryside for research and fieldwork plus the animals make it pretty special.