Clearing provides A-level results remedy for Emily

19/08/09

Clearing provides A-level results remedy for Emily

A budding medical student-to-be was devastated that her careful plans and months of interviews to study medicine were dashed when she didn’t get the grades to fulfil her university place.  Emily Knight, originally from the Isle of Man, resolved to get straight online to seek a remedy to her situation.

“I went onto the UCAS website to see where there were places available.  I gravitated towards Kingston University because of its joint faculty with St George’s, University of London, which is where I had applied to originally,” Emily said.  There were places available on the human biology course, so Emily put a call into the Clearing hotline.

“I found the process pretty straightforward, and even though I was still shocked because all my original plans had to change, at least I felt there was something I could do to get myself back on track,” she said. 

Emily, now 20, is on course for a First Class degree, and has made the most of the opportunities available to her at Kingston, adding to her CV whenever she has got the chance.  “I became a student ambassador in my second year and I’ve been helping host open days, visiting local schools to do Discovery Days and generally getting involved in the local community.  It’s all essential experience, especially when you are planning to go into a caring profession,” she said.

Kingston University’s Faculty of Science piloted a mentor scheme this year which focused on female students who were planning to enter what is still an industry dominated by men.  The SET (Science Engineering Technology) programme is due to be extended for 2009/10.  “I was matched up with a doctor at the National Physical Laboratory and her advice has already helped me prepare for my postgraduate applications for medical training,” Emily said.  “This programme and the other experience I’ve got under my belt will give me a real advantage over other applicants.”

Emily feels she’s come a million miles from where she was on the day she opened her A-level results, and maintains students facing the process this year shouldn’t worry.  “If you get your results and they’re not what you hoped for, then there’s no need to panic.  I found an alternative path to my chosen career and I’ve achieved so much more along the way,” she said.

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