ITV and BBC cover busy day at Clearing

Ms Varvas was asked what advice she would give students going through Clearing, telling the BBC, "Clearing is much less about last chances and is a good chance to review your options.

“That one option is not the only option for each student. Every individual’s needs can be met. It is an exciting time, and it has changed over the last ten years. It is less about having one qualification - a number of people are coming in with a mix of qualifications, and there are other chances in the year to apply, and review your situation.

“I encourage potential students or university applicants who might be wondering what route to take, to talk through what is it they enjoy with friends or family, or our trained call handlers. Think about your end destination after your course. Where do you want to be careers-wise? There are so many different routes to that end destination.

“It is also important to ask questions about everything from accommodation, the leisure or sports facilities, the location of the campus and what support the university puts into place for things such as mental health and wellbeing, the cost of living and financial issues before you go to the next stage,” added Vanessa.

Vice-Chancellor and President of UEL, Professor Amanda Broderick, congratulated all those who secured their place with UEL today.

Professor Broderick said,

Today marks the first step in your journey towards realising your dreams and aspirations. This year, we celebrate our 125th anniversary, and throughout that history, our mission has stayed the same: preparing graduates for the jobs of the future and advancing that future inclusively and sustainably.

“Here at UEL, we take pride in being a diverse community of individuals united by a common goal – to make a positive impact on the world. By choosing us, you’ve not only invested in your future, but also become part of a dynamic community of change makers,”

Professor Broderick added. UEL Alumna Tia Telford-Dickson is one of the call handlers, and the fifth member of her family to attend UEL. She said, “It has been a very busy day. Some people are disappointed with their grades, but then are very happy when we are able to give them a place and give them alternative options.

“I've made quite a few offers on the phone and some people are awaiting academic reviews because they are just a few points off. When I give them their offer they are very excited and grateful. I have enjoyed talking about my own experience studying law at the University, and I’m able to talk about student life to applicants and their parents too.”

Careers advisors from UEL’s Careers Zone were also on hand to help offer advice to prospective students.

Shazia Noreen, one of the advisors, said, “If you have not received the grades you wanted today, there is never a dead-end in when it comes to career pathways. Careers advice is always available, and you can explore more options for different career pathways, such as apprenticeships, vocational training, internships or re-taking exams.

“Many highly successful people have proved that grades do not really decide your future.”

Offering advice for students or parents of students who may be feeling overwhelmed on results day, Shazia added, “We also need to understand that it's normal to feel a bit sad and disappointed if we have not received the grades we wanted.

“To overcome those feelings, it is important that people talk to someone who can offer support, such as friends or family. Listening to music can also help, as can exercise, meditation, or getting out in nature.

“There is always a way forward in any difficult situation, so even when we feel that we have lost, it might need us to take a step back and come back with more. Sometimes we need to take a few steps back to move forward with our goals.”