By Priyanca Kumari (19)

Students are making the most of their summer holidays as it approaches its end. Some students may be feeling anxiety; whilst some may be feeling calm and collected. Firstly, students applying for university this year should count their lucky stars as the government have taken a decisive step on whether fees should rise next year, as the BBC recently informed us, “from September 2012, universities in England will be allowed to raise tuition fees to up to £9,000 per year”. Meaning however, when it comes to actually gaining a place university, students will find themselves in an extremely competitive position this August. This article therefore should help ease any tension and answer any questions that may be of concern to potential university students.

What to expect from now and on results day

As college has now ended, university students should have received dozens of e-mails from your UCAS director at college, UCAS and your firm university choice regarding results day procedures and activities that allow you to get involved with the University before starting. If students are still wondering what to do on the day of results however, here is a brief guide that can benefit you anxious students:

1. If you are accepted by your firm choice, you will automatically receive a confirmation letter in the post from UCAS.  This letter confirms you will be attending the university and will explain whether there is anything you need to do now.  Once you receive this letter you have officially gained a place and you will then be contacted by your chosen university providing you with further details.

2. If you are declined by your firm and accepted by your insurance choice, then your insurance choice automatically becomes your firm choice. You will then automatically be sent a confirmation letter in the post. If you are not keen on taking this choice however, you could consider withdrawing your application re-applying next year.

3. If you are declined by your firm choice and don’t have an insurance choice, or you are also declined by your insurance choice, you will automatically enter clearing. You should first check Track on the UCAS website to see if you are eligible for clearing. You can then log into Track to view your clearing number and begin searching for alternative university choices. An ‘Add Clearing choice’ button will appear on your Track choices screen if you are permitted to do so. Find out which courses have vacancies and you will be guided through UCAS on what procedures to follow next. Tip! – Official vacancy lists are published on the UCAS website and in the ‘The Independent’ and ‘The Independent on Sunday’ from Thursday 18 August, so to avoid the hassle of using computers and keeping on hold by Universities, it is strongly recommended that you buy one of the newspapers – at least to relieve a little stress.

4. Remember, some applicants pass their exams with better results than expected and exceed their firm choice offer. UCAS Adjustment provides an opportunity for students to reconsider where and what to study and to make an alternative application. UCAS provides all further details and information regarding Adjustment; remember however you are only eligible to use Adjustment if your results have met and exceeded the conditions of your conditional firm (CF) choice.

CONNEXIONS OFFER OF HELP TO A LEVEL STUDENTS
There will be a Connexions personal advisor at each of the schools where students have taken A levels tomorrow to offer help. Anyone wanting further details should contact the Connexions Centre, 155-157 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 7QX. The centre is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday between 10am and 4pm. On a Wednesday it is open between 1pm and 4pm and it is open late on a Tuesday until 6.30pm. Whatever position you find yourself in, remember there are plenty of opportunities available to you. Don’t give up and good luck!

Now for the good stuff, students will already know the basic fact – that they are entering higher education all for that long awaited degree they hope to receive in their final year.  What they may fail to recognise however is, the fun, excitement and range of work experience that there is on offer during their time at university. Here are a few points to consider:

Being proactive

You will generally feel more relaxed during your first year at university as the pressure is usually much less compared to the two years you spend doing your A-Levels. So that’s a relief. Always keep in mind that there are plenty of opportunities that the university offers for students to get involved, enabling you to enhance your career path or to engage yourself with certain events so that you never find yourself doing absolutely nothing. It is always best to be proactive, so ask questions, talk to teachers, get out and find some work experience. It will benefit you in the future and make your CV stand out.

Getting help and getting around

Students must be thinking they will feel completely lost when they first start university, especially those who are moving out as you are away from home, studying in a completely new environment for 3 or more years and feel pressure to make new friends. But don’t worry – whatever university you attend, help is always at hand. If you are ever concerned, ask a respectable member of the public and they will be sure to offer you any assistance if needed. The university will also assist you in any situation, so there is no need to feel isolated or alone.

Freshers week

Freshers week is a brilliant opportunity to make new friends at the start of university, as there is generally no work during this time and universities encourage you to go out, meet new people and make friends. There are usually ‘Student Union’ parties located close to the university, which is an even better chance at making friends with people you know who will be studying with you. So for your chance to get involved with new people, attend these events and get socialising.

Nightlife and entertainment

The cities are always buzzing around universities, and it is the best chance to get involved and get to know members of the general public, not just your fellow students. I’m sure whatever university you attend, the city will have plenty of leisure facilities such as: clubs, pubs, bars, cinemas and restaurants that will keep you on the go and party like a true student. Of course it isn’t just about the partying, learn to balance it out well with your education and always stay on top of your work. Remember, you must pass your first year to enter the second year.

I hope this was of some benefit. Good luck and have fun!