Clearing success story: Lancaster University

What is your name?  

Oliver Randall 

What degree had you originally applied for and where?  

I'd originally applied for engineering at Bath (firm choice) and Loughborough (insurance choice). The specialism was slightly different though. I'd initially applied for aerospace engineering at both, of which Bath then offered me a course on robotic engineering instead. I was open to studying different specialities, hence I was still happy to put Bath as my firm choice.

What is your degree, and where are you studying?  

I study MEng Nuclear Engineering at Lancaster University. I have just finished my third year and am moving on to my final integrated masters year.

Why did you enter Clearing? 

I didn’t get into either my firm or insurance choices for university. It was disappointing and disheartening to see that I was put in Clearing.  

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

Lancaster particularly stood out to me due to its reputation, high student satisfaction and good transport links. Although Lancaster is far from my home in Essex, which wasn’t what I initially wanted, the direct train and easy journey made for a good compromise. It is also very much a campus university – something that was a priority for me when choosing potential universities. I also liked the sound of the small-ish engineering department (although they have just built a whole new building) as I thought it may make for a more personable experience and had heard good things about it from current students and graduates. 

Did you attend a Clearing open day and, if so, how was it?  

I attended an open day in August, although I'm not sure if it was specifically for clearing students. Obviously by this time I had already accepted a place at Lancaster. Since I hadn't considered Lancaster before the clearing process. My visit wasn't to decide if I liked it (as my visits to other universities had been), but to see where I would actually be living in October. I remember the campus feeling quiet because there were no students around during the summer, and I had to imagine what it would be like during term time when it would be more buzzy! 

Did you find a place to live easily?  

Finding a place to live at Lancaster was really simple. I have a disability and, on the very day I accepted my place, I was offered an online call with the disability team to discuss my additional needs and how they could help. This support was definitely a significant factor in choosing Lancaster over the other options I had available. The best part about studying at Lancaster for me is the fact that it is a campus-based university, which means there are plenty of study spaces and areas not far from the accommodation. I really like the fact that my accommodation is only a ten-minute walk away from the main campus (library etc.) – it’s close enough to get to when I want, but also feels separate and not on top of where I study. 

Have you enjoyed your course and time at uni?  

I am enjoying my course now that it is becoming more specialised, although settling in during my first year was a bit of a challenge. I particularly appreciate the community feel of the campus, so much so that I've taken advantage of the on-campus accommodation and have lived here for all three years, and I plan to do the same in my final year. There are loads of societies too, which has been a highlight for me throughout. I have made all of my closest friends through joining societies, and it gives me something to look forward to each week amidst my studies. Looking back to the stress I felt on results day, it feels as though it has all worked out for the best in the end! 

Search Lancaster's Clearing courses to see if you can find the right one for you!