I've recently decided that I am not ready to go to university yet and my choices were unwise so I am going to reapply next year. I have heard that most colleges don't like applicants who defer entry, especially for Maths. I am writing this basically to see if it is worth applying.
I have A*s in Maths and Further Maths that I finished early (97% and 87% UMS averages respectively) and I am expecting an A in Physics. I am taking STEP I,II and III soon which I am expecting to get at least 1,1,1 in. (The standard Cambridge offer + STEP I).
I applied to Queens' College, Cambridge last year (for Maths) and was rejected after interview although I really feel that I messed up and could have been better.
In my feedback they pointed out I had a low UMS and although covered by the special access scheme, my AS grades must have put them off (AAD) which will no longer be an issue if I get A*A*A + STEP grades I'm guessing.
In my year out I intend to do lots of Maths related work experience/voluntary work. I am currently helping tutor offenders on probation with basic maths and will possibly soon be helping first year Business undergrads at Nott. Trent who have no experience of A-Level Maths (with A-Level Maths of course, not business).
I will also self-teach A-Level Economics and learn (or at least familiarise myself with) some first year undergraduate applied maths to keep my maths fresh e.g. I have gone through the calculus and the dynamics lecture notes off of the Oxford website and am about to try the problem sheets (Yes, I am a nerd) I am hoping that this extra studying I plan to do will be enough to compensate for a year out. Regardless, I intend to do it for my own satisfaction anyway.
Also are there any colleges that you know of which would not mind the fact that I am taking a year out.
Thanks
EDIT: I am not applying for deferred entry as such. I am going to reapply to university due to personal circumstances to start in October 2013.