Should I go to university now doing Biology or resit exams and study Engineering

Hey, so I've been really torn lately cause I didn't by any means get what I wanted/needed in A Levels for my firm university. I ended up looking through clearing and even then, I'm not very happy with my options. I have a place at a lower ranked uni for a biology degree, but I don't know if that university is for me to soak 4 years in to and am very uncertain of whether I should resit. If I did, my college doesn't allow repeated years and a lot of sixth forms near me don't either, so id be a private candidate at home until the exams. Im so motivated to improve my grades as I know I simply did not start my revision nearly early or hard enough but a year on my own with no classes or friends after they mostly go to uni this year, I'm thinking of just sucking it up and going to this uni now. Im also unsure of the biology pathway entirely, with its prospects as I'm unlikely to try to go to medical school and its low pay ceiling after the fact. I've been researching engineering and I like the look of it too (especially mechanical and aerospace) but again, a year of risk to go to a slightly more reputable uni (hopefully Russel group if they allowed it) for it may not be worth the time as my friends and family keep pointing out. Would love some suggestions/advise if anyone has any. Thanks! :smile:

Original post by Sam986986

Hey, so I've been really torn lately cause I didn't by any means get what I wanted/needed in A Levels for my firm university. I ended up looking through clearing and even then, I'm not very happy with my options. I have a place at a lower ranked uni for a biology degree, but I don't know if that university is for me to soak 4 years in to and am very uncertain of whether I should resit. If I did, my college doesn't allow repeated years and a lot of sixth forms near me don't either, so id be a private candidate at home until the exams. Im so motivated to improve my grades as I know I simply did not start my revision nearly early or hard enough but a year on my own with no classes or friends after they mostly go to uni this year, I'm thinking of just sucking it up and going to this uni now. Im also unsure of the biology pathway entirely, with its prospects as I'm unlikely to try to go to medical school and its low pay ceiling after the fact. I've been researching engineering and I like the look of it too (especially mechanical and aerospace) but again, a year of risk to go to a slightly more reputable uni (hopefully Russel group if they allowed it) for it may not be worth the time as my friends and family keep pointing out. Would love some suggestions/advise if anyone has any. Thanks! :smile:

Hey @Sam986986 ,

Firstly, take some time for yourself. Even though you didn't get what you were hoping for, A levels are still a lot of work so you deserve some rest. Also this decision isn't a decision to rush into and there's plenty of time to figure out what's right for you.

This decision is yours and yours only, so please don't do something just because I say so, but I hope my outside perspective will help shed some light on the situation. Also, I sadly cannot comment on either of your possible course choices as I study philosophy, but I could put you in touch with the engineering or biology departments at Kent if you think that would help?

I would say if you aren't sure the university is right for you, you definitely need to do some more research, because as you say, moving and committing to university is a big step (though of course you can always switch later down the line). Lower rank aside, make a list of pros and cons:

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Do you like the modules covered?

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Do you like the teaching styles and methods of assessment?

•

Is the university suitable for commuting or do you like the accommodation options available?

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Do you like the social scene at the university and the local town?

•

Do you like the careers and wellbeing services at the university?

While I can certainly understand your reluctance to resit (though it does sound like you would be motivated to improve those grades), I definitely wouldn't "suck it up" and head to a university you aren't happy with, because you want to make sure you get something valuable out of your time at university, either via the degree or by the wider university experience.

In terms of resitting, I would say it depends on whether you would feel happier with improved grades, or if the improved grades would help you on a future career path. I know its a shame to feel like you are "behind" if your friends head to university, but everyone moves at their own pace. Many people start university later for a range of reasons so I promise you won't be the only one.

From the sounds of it, biology does not seem the path for you, and I think you'd be better off pursuing a genuine interest in Engineering that you seem to have - have you looked at Engineering courses through clearing or with foundation years? Would you definitely have to resit your exams still? You are far better off putting in some hard work to pursue something you would enjoy rather than settling for an unhappy situation just because you can.

Also, only you can decide if its worth the time, while I'm sure your friends and family have your best interests at heart, this is your life and your future after all.

I really hope this helps you, don't hesitate to reach back out.

Best of luck with wherever your journey goes next!

Gabby

Reply 2

McGinger

20

How badly do you want to do Engineering?
Only you can decide if the difficulty of retaking A levels is worth it, or if just a gap-year and reapplying for attainable Eng courses is more realistic.

Either way, don't start Biology if you are not certain its what you want.

Should I go to university now doing Biology or resit exams and study Engineering

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