If you used Clearing in 2024, how did you find it?

I decided to take a foundation year but I feel like resitting

Results day was a really bad day for me, I got B in maths, D in physics, D in computer science then A* in EPQ. I wanted to retake but I first decided to ring up some universities and see what courses they can offer me through clearing. I managed to get a foundation year for a computer science course at UEA, eventually confirming the offer and now I'm going this September. I got everyone congratulating me and stuff but deep down I just feel really heartbroken over my results, because I worked really hard to get good grade and if it wasn't for EPQ, I don't even know if they would've accepted me into their foundation year.

I just feel defeated and I am kind of considering resitting my A-levels because I just don't want these grades to define me even if I do get to a good uni and study a good course. My family is saying its a bit irrational since nobody really cares about A-level grades in the future, and it won't matter anyways since I'll graduate from a good course at a good uni and get a job. I don't even really care about the foundation year I just feel so disheartened at my grades I really want to redeem myself because I don't think I deserve these grades.

Should I resit or is it just a stupid idea?

Reply 1

UEA Rep Daniel

Official Rep

Hi there,

First off, I want to say that it’s completely normal to feel the way you’re feeling right now. You worked really hard, and it’s tough when the results don’t reflect the effort you put in. The fact that you’re questioning your grades and considering resitting shows just how much you care about your education and your future.

Getting into UEA for a Computer Science course with a foundation year is a big achievement, especially considering how competitive Clearing can be. The foundation year is designed to bridge any gaps and prepare you for success in the main course, so you’re definitely on a good path. That being said, your feelings about your A-level results are valid. It’s not irrational to want to prove to yourself that you can do better, especially if those grades don’t feel like they reflect your true abilities. However, it’s also worth considering the bigger picture. Your A-level grades are a stepping stone, but they don’t define your entire academic journey or future career. Once you’re in university and eventually in the work, those grades will matter less and less.

If you’re still leaning towards resitting, ask yourself what your ultimate goal is. If it’s purely for personal satisfaction, then it’s worth considering the time, energy, and resources it will take to resit versus putting that same effort into excelling in your foundation year and degree.

At the end of the day, this is your journey, and you have to do what feels right for you. Whichever path you choose, know that you have already achieved something significant by securing your place at UEA, and there’s so much more ahead for you.

Wishing you the best of luck!
Daniel
PhD in Biology