A prize-winning student has told how Clearing allowed her to start her route to a career in Law a year earlier than she thought possible.
Laura Taylor had assumed she would be too late to apply for a place, but, thanks to Clearing, she was able to get on the course virtually straightaway.
Now studying for a degree in Law at the University of Worcester, Laura has gone from strength to strength, representing the University in a national mooting competition earlier this year.
The 23-year-old was a Sales Manager in retail, but had completed a graphic design level 3 diploma in 2013 and a level 3 AAT in Accountancy, through evening classes.
"I wanted a new career challenge and decided to go to university and study Law," said Laura, 23, of Kempsey, Worcester.
"I was concerned that I didn't have any relevant qualifications and had been out of education for a few years. I contacted the university about applying the following year as I thought I was too late and the university told me about Clearing.
"My qualifications were not an issue and I was so excited that I didn't need to wait another year."
Laura said the Clearing process was extremely straightforward. She met the Head of Law for a tour of the University's new School of Law, had an informal interview and accepted a place on the course, which started the following week.
With top grades in her first year, Laura, who aims to become a solicitor, won the LLB Prize for Academic Achievement and the Parkinson Wright LLP Prize that lead to a week of work experience at the Firm. Laura also gained work experience at Harrison Clark Rickerbys LLP, the Worcester Citizens Advice Bureau and Worcestershire County Council. She took part in a national mooting competition and has played an active role in the School of Law's Legal Advice Centre, which gives free legal advice to the public.
"I have loved every moment of university," she said. "There are so many fantastic opportunities that I have taken part in."
Laura recommends that others facing Clearing are determined and passionate about what they want to do.
"If you can demonstrate this and that you are capable, it will put you in a very good place to get on your chosen course," she said.
The University of Worcester has places for well-qualified applicants through Clearing this year.
The Clearing hotline " 01905 855111 " is now open for those collecting BTEC results and Access qualifications and will remain open as A-level results are released on Thursday, August 17th.