Elizabeth, Sara, Rebecca and Lloyd all found their path to Salford through Clearing. Discover their stories and how Clearing helped shape their future.

Elizabeth's story

After missing out on her firm choices, Elizabeth found her path through Clearing and joined the University of Salford to study for an LLB (Hons) in Law. From her very first phone call, she felt welcomed and supported throughout the process.

Since then, she has made the most of Salford’s opportunities, including mooting competitions, law fairs and gaining practical career experience. Elizabeth has grown in confidence, developed her advocacy skills and found the right place to pursue her ambition of becoming a criminal barrister.

Watch Elizabeth’s journey below, or explore more Salford student stories on our YouTube playlist.

Student describes a friendly Clearing call and law career opportunities at Salford that confirmed it was the right place for her.

Sara's Story

Biomedical science student Sara sitting in a lab at the university of Salford

Sara began studying Medicine at another university but soon realised it wasn’t the right fit for her and that she needed to be closer to home. She applied to Salford through Clearing and joined the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science course, where she found both the academic and staff welcoming and supportive from the start.

Since then, she’s gained hands-on lab experience, completed a Wellcome Trust placement, and received strong academic support. Sara has grown in confidence and found her passion for research.

Learn more about Sara’s journey and find even more inspiring Salford student stories on our YouTube playlist.

Rebecca's story

Rebecca Connor portrait

Rebecca decided to change careers and applied to Salford through Clearing. She left her office job and joined the BSc (Hons) Prosthetics and Orthotics course. Three years later, she is working as a Graduate Prosthetist with the organisation where she completed her placement.

“I had been looking for something more meaningful. The course had strong job prospects, hands-on learning and two long placements. It seemed like the right fit,” she says.

Although it was her first time applying to university, Rebecca found the Clearing process straightforward. “I was excited about the opportunity and the admissions lead was so helpful and kind. I was kept well informed and felt really supported throughout.”

Her final placement was a turning point. “I was working in London, supporting rehabilitation for patients recovering from brain injuries and strokes. Each day brought a different team and new challenges. It helped me develop as a clinician and showed me how rewarding this work can be.”

Looking back, Rebecca feels confident in the path she chose. “Salford gave me the tools I needed to build a new career and the confidence to succeed.”

Lloyd's story

Salford student Lloyd Townsend stood in front of a stone wall at night with river and lit up building behind him.

Lloyd always knew he wanted a career in finance. In 2020, he applied to the University of Salford through Clearing to study BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance with Professional Experience. Within ten days of calling the Clearing hotline, he was moving into halls and starting his university journey.

“2020 was a tough time. The job market had collapsed, and my circumstances had changed. All my friends were going to university, and I thought I might be missing out. I applied through Clearing almost on impulse,” he says.

A close friend was already studying at Salford and spoke highly of the experience, which gave Lloyd confidence to apply. “The process couldn’t have been easier. I gave my grades and a little information about myself and soon received a provisional offer.”

Since then, Lloyd has completed a year-long placement at Unilever and is now on track to graduate with a first-class degree. “The support from lecturers and staff has been amazing. They helped me find the right accommodation, secure part-time work, and prepare strong applications for placements.”

“My confidence has grown, and I’ve gained real independence. I’ve learned so much about myself and I would definitely recommend Clearing to others.”

Contact us

University of Salford Clearing team sat at computers with headsets answering calls and enquiries.

If you have a question about studying any of our courses, contact our friendly team today on +44 (0)161 295 4545 or enquiries@salford.ac.uk.