Fashion marketing student — Angel Adegbuyi

Despite not getting the A-level grades she had hoped for, Angel managed to secure a place on the BA Fashion Marketing at Middlesex University by going through the Clearing process

How did you feel on A-level results day?

I cried so badly when I didn't get the grades for my first degree choice. My mum and brother also cried. We cried together because they knew how much effort I put into my coursework and everything.

I studied fashion design at college, and they knew all the late nights spent trying to get the grades I needed.

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to stop crying because I do not regret anything. I'm glad I didn't get the grades I needed to get into the first option, because I don't believe I would have loved it as much. And every day at Middlesex is an adventure.

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

From the moment I realised I didn't get the grades, I was applying to universities, and I didn't mind if they weren't in London or five hours away. I was applying for all types of places, as long as they had the fashion course I wanted.

What support did you receive at the time in making this decision?

My friend recommended Middlesex University because she went to the open day.

She said to trust her that I was going to love this university.

I applied online through Clearing, and it was a very quick process. It took possibly only a week before I was accepted onto the programme.

Why did you choose to study at this institution?

I needed somewhere that was diverse. I explored places where I had a connection, somewhere I could really channel my mind creatively. There also needed to be a community and friendships that I knew I could find in Middlesex.

My friends said that there were so many student societies at Middlesex, such as the African and Caribbean Society (ACS) and the Mdx Bollywood Society. I was sold on the idea.

How is the course structured and assessed?

The degree involves:

• four modules in year one
• three modules in year two
• four modules in years three or five.

Each module is worth 30 credits. There is an option for a sandwich year where you can experience an industry placement worth 120 credits.

The course is very research-based. My teacher always finds new ways to keep it entertaining, and it gets my creativity flowing.

What's your university experience been like so far?

It has been fun, creative, and very nurturing. Everyone was so sweet from the first day I walked into the classroom.

I have felt well looked after, as my teacher was very understanding when I told her I was struggling to manage my time effectively. She helped me so much in this area.

I have looked at a few societies I want to join, including the Book Reading Society, Film Society, and ACS. My fashion marketing tutor also recommended that we attend the Fashion Awards, and it was such an interesting day.

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

Middlesex has other campuses and connections in Mauritius and Dubai, so I'm excited to explore study abroad options more in my second year.

What advice would you give to other students thinking of using the Clearing process?

• Don't panic if you don't get the grades you're hoping for. After going through Clearing, I ended up at Middlesex, and I couldn't be happier with my decision.
• Start researching and exploring other options before A-level results day, so you are prepared for all outcomes on the day.
• Stick to your career goals for the course you want to study, whatever it takes.

Find out more

• Get the lowdown on the university Clearing process.
• Discover 5 ways to get into fashion design.
• Consider the BA Fashion Marketing at Middlesex University.