Bioengineering student — Carolina Kikuchi

Despite not getting the grades she hoped for to get into university, Carolina secured a place on the BEng Bioengineering at the University of Sheffield by going through Clearing, and is now in her third year

How did you feel on A-level results day?

In sixth form, I followed the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, which is equivalent to A-levels. I got my results a month before A-level students, but they were lower than I expected. Despite this, my UCAS insurance choice was still pending.

On A-level results day, I received an email explaining that I had not met the grades, and so I went directly into Clearing. I felt very disappointed, but it was very important for me to take some time to compose myself and ensure I was in the mindset to make the right choices.

Even though things hadn't gone according to plan, I still had many other options.

What steps did you take to end up with the course you finally settled on?

During Clearing, I had to adapt from my original plan, so I researched all universities that offered biomedical engineering, checked their websites to see if they had spots available through Clearing, and if so, called them.

I kept track of the ones I had called, regardless of the outcome. After contacting all the universities I was interested in, I did a deeper dive into the ones I had received offers from. I researched the course structure and modules and contacted friends who were current students.

After many calls, lists, and emails, I chose the BEng Bioengineering at the University of Sheffield. It is a highly ranked university with a clear course structure and has received much praise from its current students and alumni.

What support did you receive in making this decision?

My family was very supportive. They understood it was a stressful process and promised to stand by me no matter the decision I made.

Why did you choose to study at this institution?

The University of Sheffield has set a very high standard for engineering programmes. It has a very good ranking among UK universities, and I liked the way it structured its courses. Sheffield is a relatively cheap city, and it really values the student experience.

In addition, I had a very good experience with the Clearing adviser. He was calm and patient, making sure I understood every part of the process. Unconsciously, that played a role in why I chose Sheffield, and by volunteering on the Clearing hotline this year, I hope to have the same impact on other people.

How is the course structured and assessed?

In the first year, you only do core modules across a number of different subjects, mostly within physics, biology and maths. This helps all students to be at the same level, as some hadn't done physics or biology A-levels.

Your second year involves a choice between two pathways: one that emphasises the chemistry and biology side of bioengineering and the other that focuses more on physics and machinery.

There are four options for the third year, depending on the stream you chose in the second year.

This structure allows for a lot of freedom to build your degree based on your interests within bioengineering.

With regards to assessments, the distribution of percentages between coursework and exams varies according to the modules you selected. Also, there are some mandatory group projects that help develop your soft skills.

What's your university experience been like?

I quickly adapted to the city, and my accommodation was very close to the university. I joined the Swimming and Water Polo Club and have worked on engineering student-led projects, meeting people from the UK and around the world.

I have made the most of my university experience, developed academic skills from the modules I took, and improved my teamwork skills through the multiple projects I participated in, both within and outside of the curriculum.

How has Clearing impacted your career direction, and what are your plans now?

Clearing was not the first plan, but I'm glad it happened. The University of Sheffield has an amazing community that I'm happy to be part of. There is no shortage of opportunities at university, and I have taken advantage of that by getting involved with projects and taking leadership roles, honing and developing a range of valuable skills for industry.

I'm in my final year, and I hope to begin working within the medical devices field or further my education and pursue a Masters degree.

What advice would you give to other students going through Clearing?

• Remain calm and be patient. Don't be discouraged by any negative responses.
• Research the courses you're interested in applying for. Then cross-reference that list with the Clearing list from UCAS. Be sure to write everything down or make a spreadsheet.
• Call any university you might be interested in. The offers are usually valid for 48 hours before you need to make a decision. For me, it was important to have options and take some time before making a definitive choice.
• Write down your UCAS ID and your grades before you start calling universities, so you know you have them to hand.

Find out more

• Get more advice on university Clearing.
• Discover what to do on A-level results day.
• Explore Clearing courses at Sheffield.