Why did you apply through Clearing? 

I didn’t start thinking about applying until I was furloughed from my job in 2020. Having the time to reflect on my situation made me want to pursue a career that was more fulfilling and centred around my interests. 

It was too late in the year for me to apply through the standard process, but I didn’t want to lose out on starting as soon as possible. I did some research about Clearing so that I could apply and still have the same chance as everybody else.
Hear Catherine's story

How did you find the experience? 

It was much less daunting than I thought. Once you have your personal statement ready and your reference confirmed, the Clearing team at Edinburgh Napier will make sure you have everything you need. Just a few emails giving evidence of your qualifications and you’re good to go! 

The people at both UCAS and Edinburgh Napier were super helpful and lovely to speak to which just made the whole process a lot easier and less stressful. 

What drew you to Edinburgh Napier? 

I had planned to move to Edinburgh eventually as I just felt the city had so much more to offer. When I decided to apply to university, it made sense for me to take that step. 

Edinburgh Napier felt like the right fit for me as it had an interesting programme that suited my interests. I had also heard from many people that the University has a modern approach to how they deliver programmes, which I felt was super important. 

Did you have any concerns about being a mature student? 

I was worried that I would be either the only older student or at least one of very few. It turned out that some of the first people I spoke to on my programme were a similar age and wanted to change their career too. 

I got on well with the younger students too, despite my worries that we would not have the same frame of mind. I also found it interesting that everyone’s backgrounds were so different. 

Don’t feel you’re late to the party just because you haven’t started as early as others - it’s never too late to take that step that changes your life. 

The people at both UCAS and Edinburgh Napier were super helpful and lovely to speak to which just made the whole process a lot easier and less stressful.

Catherine

BSc (Hons) Web Design & Development

Has the course lived up to expectations? 

Before starting this course, I hoped to learn how to code websites and learn more on mobile app development. By the time I completed my first semester, I had learnt the basics of HTML and CSS and already started to delve deeper. 

I have really enjoyed learning things I never thought I would be able to do and look forward to hopefully doing a placement in third year to get valuable experience in the industry. 

What advice do you have for anyone applying through Clearing? 

I understand that this is an uncertain time for most and the state of university life isn’t the norm right now, but don’t let that stop you. 

Everyone is really supportive, and the lecturers are constantly taking student feedback, trying to give us the best possible environment to learn. 

I would advise anyone applying through Clearing to get in touch as soon as possible and sort out everything you need. It will put your mind at rest knowing that it’s taken care of. Be a go getter!