I never thought I’d go through Clearing, and I didn’t think I’d end up at Durham — but here I am, having just finished first year, and I’m so glad I took the risk.
Why Clearing
I initially applied to study PPE at Warwick, with York as my insurance, after getting rejected from Oxford. But over the summer, I had a change of heart — I realised I didn’t want to do PPE anymore. I wanted a course focused more on politics, and Warwick wouldn’t let me switch. So I started looking at my options through Clearing. I also knew I wanted a degree which offered flexibility, and that’s when I stumbled across Durham’s Combined Honours in Social Sciences. It was exactly the sort of degree I was looking for.
Results day
Results day was chaotic. I remember sitting in the car with my friends on the way to sixth form, panicking, making sure I had the Clearing hotline numbers saved. But when I opened my results, I was shocked — I’d done better than I expected. That’s when I made the big decision: I was going to decline my Warwick offer and try to get into Durham through Clearing.
Taking the leap
Here’s the scary bit: I didn’t know for sure that Durham would accept me, but I took the risk, called Durham’s Clearing hotline (which was super helpful), and spoke to someone who told me my grades matched what they were looking for. I got an offer!
What they couldn’t confirm at that stage was my college, which made for a further few weeks of waiting.
My college
I eventually found out I’d been allocated to St Aidan’s College. I had to sort private housing fast, but it worked out in the end. And honestly, even without college accommodation, I still felt like part of the community. I went to formals, events, the fashion show, and got involved with the Junior Common Room. You meet friends through your course, societies, sports, or just walking up Cardiac Hill!
Was it worth it?
100%. I’ve had an amazing first year. I’ve studied politics, theology, anthropology, and geography. I’ve met brilliant people from all over the world, and I’ve been able to explore interests across disciplines — something I couldn’t have done if I stuck with PPE.
Even though I’d never visited Durham before moving day, I felt welcomed the moment I arrived.
If you’re considering Clearing…
Clearing is stressful — no one denies that. But it’s also an opportunity. If you’re unsure, here’s my advice:
- ✅ Write down Durham’s Clearing hotline in advance
- 🔋 Charge your phone and keep a charger with you
- 🤝 Have a teacher, friend, or parent with you on Results Day
- 📚 Do your research — look up courses, contact departments, and imagine yourself at that uni
- 🎯 Be bold — you’ve worked so hard, and you deserve to choose what’s right for you
Final thoughts
You might not have firmed Durham, I didn’t either, but I made it here through Clearing, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Whatever happens on Results Day, Clearing can be a powerful second chance. Don’t count yourself out, and if you’re thinking about Durham, go for it. I’m so glad I did.
Discover more
Take a look at our Clearing web pages for more info & register your interest
To see more of Durham student life, follow The Durham Student on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
