[JasonVowles]

Hi, I'm Jason and I'm currently studying through my final year of A-Levels. There's a nice little introduction for you.

Cutting straight to the point I came here seeking advice and understanding on Uni's and A-Levels.
I've not had a smooth run and I fear it'll affect my chances to apply for Uni.

I've had to re-sit my Maths GCSE a total of a 3 times, on all occassions my exam pieces have been at least C grade. However every single time my coursework has been lost by staff or admin etc; this is not even a joke.

I was particularly annoyed to discover that GCSE maths now has no coursework in the modules.


Secondly... I feel as though my first year in A-Levels wil let me down.
In 2006-2007 I attended a privately funded public school (if that works). I did 3 Sciences and Business and my work in progress were C's and above. My Grandfather suffered previously for 3 years with lung cancer, and two months before January exams he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Five tumours.

Basically I lost the plot, failed all ym exams and I was "Removed" from the school for my poor response to education.


I'm now doing two A2's and 1 AS, and this is technically my third year in A-leves. I want to know none of this can hold me back for good, because I know I'll fight for a place in Uni.
I want to do it mostly for myself to prove that I'm capable and not just a bad luck charm.



Any advice would just be fantastic right now.

[crystaltips]

Hey!! sounds like you've had more than your fair share of bad luck!
When I looked at your intro all the way through I noticed that even though crap things have happened to you, you still keep trying and have worked really hard to keep up with your education.
Sorry if you have stated it, but what course would you like to do at uni? My friend had a pretty rough time of it when she was doing her exams at school and didnt perform as well as she should have (due to family/health problems) and she is now doing great at uni! She had to go for an interview at uni when she applied and she answered truthfully when questions were asked about attendance and reasons for lower grades, and the uni even commented that one of the reasons she had got in was her determination, so all I can say is don't worry, whats happened has happened and continue to do the best you can and hopefully the uni that you choose will give you the chance to explain.....
It might also be an idea to speak to a guidance counsellor or go to a career advice centre and run this situation by them, they will be able to tell you what you can do in order to get into the uni course that you want!
Hope this has been of some help!

[JasonVowles]

Im really thankful for this response xD
I didn't realise Uni's took into account other variance sin a students life...

I'm wishing to do English Language, possibly a joint hons depending on my feelings.
English is my strong point, and I should be wise to play to my strengths.


Thanks again, I'll keep at it
In fact I have to get back to some coursework.

[F1 fanatic]

When applying to uni, things like that can go in your reference which the universities will then take into account.

[magicbuspass]

For help you have come to the right place.

This forum will certainly help you in subjects - uni-applications etc.

[saoirse_x]

I think this would help getting in to a uni, it certainly shows you dont give up.

[vampygirl666]

hi jason! it sounds like you have had really bad luck but no one has bad luck forever. i am doing three gcses four years early than i am meant to do them. im really worried as im doing them this june and i have only had eight months to study! i would suggest going on different types of student room just to get advice. thats what i do!
good luck!

[JasonVowles]

I am.. seriously shocked by the kind of feedback. I expected turned up noses and such. It's really comforting. although this is all well and good for self-esteem and realisation, but how will I show this to Uni's without them thinking it's a sympathy vote. That's the last thing I want. Infact I wanted to be treated like every other student.

[F1 fanatic]

Originally Posted by JasonVowles

I am.. seriously shocked by the kind of feedback. I expected turned up noses and such. It's really comforting. although this is all well and good for self-esteem and realisation, but how will I show this to Uni's without them thinking it's a sympathy vote. That's the last thing I want. Infact I wanted to be treated like every other student.

That's why I think it's important that it goes in your reference - so that its coming from a teacher in a position of authority and not from you "looking for the sympathy vote". Universities are not in the business of giving places to people just because they feel sorry for them, they want the best students but if you have been disadvantaged by personal problems then they will take this into account.

[JasonVowles]

definitely, and I think a challenge is preferable because it's stimulating and success tastes sweeter post enrollment.
=] Thanks for response.

[vampygirl666]

Originally Posted by JasonVowles

I am.. seriously shocked by the kind of feedback. I expected turned up noses and such. It's really comforting. although this is all well and good for self-esteem and realisation, but how will I show this to Uni's without them thinking it's a sympathy vote. That's the last thing I want. Infact I wanted to be treated like every other student.

you shouldn't have expcted turned up noses.

[Mikaila]

Uwaa...

Things have been quite...horrible for you Jason.

You are indeed admirable. If you include all that in your PS, I'm sure they will pay special attention to you. You are "different" from others. And you have endeavour and talent. They will respect you, that is for sure.

Worry not, for you are awesome, darling.

Good luck! I'll be supporting you!