Clearing: What to expect and how to navigate the process
In our latest Student Clearing series blog, final year BSc Accounting and Finance student Khadeeja Shah discusses why she used Clearing to join SOAS, what her experience was like and what advice she'd give to students going through clearing.
What led you to the Clearing path?
I was planning to attend university in Australia, but the borders closed due to COVID. As there was a lot of uncertainty around how long the borders would be shut, I decided to go through Clearing. This was instead of waiting and taking a gap year.
How was your Clearing experience?
At the time I was very unsure about where I wanted to go and what I desired to study. I began by exploring all the options Clearing was offering that year and deduced that I wanted to study a degree related to either business, management or finance.
This was still quite broad, which meant that my next step included looking at all the course options related to these fields and doing a deeper dive into what the institutions offered them were like. I examined the modules offered, how students were assessed, study abroad options, student life at the institutions, the locations and more.
When results day came around, I called up all the institutions on my final list and requested places on their courses. After assessing all my offers, I chose SOAS. This was for many reasons: the variety of modules offered within the course, the advantages of the location and the active student body.
How has your experience of SOAS been so far?
I have loved my 3-years at SOAS and, in my case, feel that everything worked out for the best. Although I encountered a rocky start in my first year due to Covid and everything being online, this changed when I joined the student ambassador scheme.
My experience was enhanced by the transition back to in-person learning, which included being able to debate live in class, attend society events, study in various locations on campus, explore the best food in the area and forge deeper friendships.
How have you developed while at SOAS?
At SOAS, I have stepped outside my comfort zone and grown in ways I never would have expected. For example, from being an NUS delegate, I stepped into the world of student politics, despite being a natural introvert.
Although this experience challenged me, it aided me in developing new skills and growing in confidence. In addition, from being a SOAS student ambassador, I have honed in on the strengths I already have, as well as evolving into a more well-rounded person ready for the workplace.
Clearing can be stressful, but it is important to remember that it is just a process that helps you find the right institution for you.
What's the best thing about being a student at SOAS?
The best part about being a student at SOAS is being a part of the SOAS community. SOAS is a small institution with around 6000 students overall. This means that when you join, you become part of a vibrant community of diverse people, beliefs and student societies who give different world perspectives, challenge your outlooks and offer lifelong friendships.
And finally, what advice would you give to students going through clearing?
Clearing can be stressful, but it is important to remember that it is just a process that helps you find the right institution for you. In the time before results day, I would recommend going through the clearing portal and jotting down any courses that potentially interest you. From there, you should look into the institutions behind these courses. See if they are a good fit for you by looking at other important factors, such as location, accommodation, student life, etc.
Once results day comes around, don’t settle for the first offer you receive. Instead, try to keep a clear mind and work through your list so that you fully explore your options and end up at the best institution for you.
About the author
Khadeeja Shah is currently in the final year of her BSc Accounting and Finance at the School of Finance and Management and works part-time as a SOAS Student Ambassador.
