uniselectImage
uniselectLogo

The shortcut to your shortlist

Make your university search faster and less stressful.
Get a personalised shortlist by selecting what matters to you.

GET STARTED
Making the final choice

Clearing success story: Sunderland

Read about Rachel's experience of getting a place through Clearing to study Sociology at the University of Sunderland.

Rachel Lawson University of Sunderland

Looking for Clearing advice?

The Clearing concierge has the answers

What's your name? 

Rachel 

What degree did you originally apply for and where?

I was offered a place on a Sociology degree course at a university outside of the North East. This was on the condition I completed a final A Level at the same university beforehand.  

What is your degree, and where are you studying? 

BSc (Hons) Sociology at the University of Sunderland.

Why did you use Clearing? 

I was considering taking a gap year and finding a way into employment within that time. I was also offered a place at university, but it was on the condition I completed a final A Level at that university before being accepted onto their Sociology degree. Neither of these options were particularly appealing to me as I wanted something more immediate. 

Why did you choose Sociology at Sunderland?

I contacted the university and spoke to the course leader about a new course beginning in September of the year I was looking to enrol. I had enough points to be offered a place on the Social Sciences BSc (Hons) course, which included a foundation year that would then transition into one of four Social Sciences degrees. One of these was Sociology, the subject that I wanted to study at an academic level.

Did you attend a Clearing open day? How was it?

I visited the University of Sunderland to attend an open day and left with a positive impression. I knew the university was an option that’d provide the opportunity to progress onto my preferred course, while allowing me to gain confidence in my own ability. It also had the added benefit of being able to study closer to home. 

Did you find accommodation easily? 

I live nearby with my family.

How was your university experience?

The commitment, passion, and enthusiasm of the lecturers has always been consistent, from the open days I attended, the lectures, seminars, and all the way through to graduation. Even as a graduate, the continued support and interest I receive from the university to make sure I continue the level of success I’ve already achieved is remarkable. 

The shortcut to your uni shortlist

Make your university search faster and less stressful.
Get a personalised shortlist by selecting what matters to you.

GET STARTED

Looking for Clearing advice?

The Clearing concierge has the answers

FIND OUT MORE

Related articles

Two university students walking and talking

Clearing success stories 2024

Clearing can be a positive experience, giving you the chance to find your perfect course....

05 Aug 2024
Leeds Beckett student Musaed

Clearing success story: Leeds Beckett University

Discover Musaed's story about his experience of getting a place through Clearing to study...

25 Jul 2024
Student opening their exam results

Unexpected exam results

Sometimes your predicted grades aren’t the ones you end up with. Read on to discover what...

19 Jul 2024

Is this page useful?

Yes No

Sorry about that...

HOW CAN WE IMPROVE IT?

SUBMIT

Thanks for your feedback!