UNIVERSITY HUNTING

This year I have been applying to go to University. Luckily, my school offered a lot of support, so I thought I would put this post up in order to help anyway who either hasn't got the support, or is looking for further first-hand advice..

Take time to look around online at courses and there content. Do some courses offer a bursary, like NHS funded ones? Are the courses competitive? What are the requirements? More importantly: will I enjoy this subject and will I be able to study it for three years?

Do not let anyone make this decision for you!

WHICH UNIVERSITY?

Find out where a "UCAS Fair" is being held near you. There are lots of Universities there with Prospectus' for you to collect, ask any questions and for general information. I went to one at the Sheffield Hallam Arena. Also, they try to lure you in with free pens/bags/competitions etc. Some of the people on the stands will be students or course lecturers. On top of this there is information for apprenticeships etc if you're still unsure on what to do.

University does not necessarily mean amazing grades. Plenty of Universities have lower entry requirements - just know approximately what you are expected and keep your expectations realistic. Applying to a high requirement University to just you a goal, but also apply to a lower requirement University just incase results day does not go as expected.

Actually visit the Universities you are interested in. I cannot express how important this is! You may need to book visit days online but there are usually about 3 per University. This will give you a realistic impression of where you will be living and your course, and it will also give you an opportunity to talk to your course lecturers. . Remember, you are going to be living here for the minimum of three years. You want to make sure you feel comfortable in the city and how far/close it is to your current home.

Finance may seen unimportant now, but remember, the closer you are to London, the more expensive your life will be. You will only get a certain amount as a loan - and you have to pay these back!!! Again, look out for bursaries and scholarships offered by the University. Apply for them all, you never know if you don't try, plus free money always is a bonus!

ACTUALLY APPLYING

You will be required to apply to University via UCAS. It is pretty self explanatory so I won't blab on about this part just GET IT IN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Make sure you write an amazing personal statement. Remember to include any work experience, or anything about your life, no matter how small or large that shows your interest in the course. ALWAYS link your life to your course. You are trying to prove how much you would love to study this subject. Think of it as a competition: in effect you are fighting against others for your place.

Be prepared to wait. My first University offer came back almost three days later, my last one three months later!! Don't be disappointed if you get declined - you have four other possibilities. This is why, as well, it is important to keep your applications realistic. Use them all.