So, maybe results day didn’t go completely to plan. You might be feeling a bit nervous or unsure about what the future holds, which is entirely normal.
But, whether you make it to Cardiff by choice or by default, I’m here to tell you it might be the best thing that ever happens to you.
Getting a spot at this uni truly means landing on your feet, so whether you’re about to navigate the clearing process, or need to know how to make sure you nail those first few weeks in the city, here’s exactly what to do.
Navigating clearing at Cardiff Uni
The clearing process is quite simple when laid out. All you need to do is call Cardiff University via its clearing line and apply for your desired course.
You’ll be asked for your grades and then told whether a place is available in that course or something similar. Despite me being two years “late” to my first year of uni, the clearing team treated me like every other student and accepted me on a conditional offer.
From one Cardiff Uni clearing student to another, the whole process of clearing can be difficult. Typically, going for plan B over plan A can be daunting or even just frustrating, but plan B, more often than not, works out better than plan A.
After clearing is finished, it’s normal to feel out of your depth with all things social and practical. I recommend sorting out accommodation as soon as you can, looking into what’s available ,and what suits your requirements.
Sorting out your accommodation
For first year’s in Cardiff, the Talybont halls of residence are certainly the most social. From Taly Court to Taly North, this area of accommodation almost feels like a first year-village. With the Tesco’s Express and the North Star pub nearby, there’s not much else to ask for. The only critique is that it is further out from city centre, so if you’re a JOMEC student like myself it’s good to do some research on what accommodation suits you.
There are a variety of other accommodations at Cardiff Uni available but make sure you decide whether you’d prefer an en-suite, shared bathroom, self catered, or catered flat.
Join a society
After all the boring (but important!) things are done, I recommend getting involved with societies. Find a niche or a hobby you’re interested in and join a society according to it. With over 200 societies, Cardiff Student’s Union website will show you the array of communities and groups you can join. As a JOMEC clearing student myself, joining JOMEC Netball society helped me meet some of my best friends.
But it doesn’t just have to be a sport. There are many societies that you can join, from BollySoc to Xpress Radio or Law society, there is something out there for everyone.
Meeting new people
Reaching out to new people can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that everyone is in the same boat in first year, clearing or not. Don’t be afraid to join clubs or ask new friends or course mates to the pub – they probably need a drink too!
When getting to know people, make plans! Go to Barry for a day or plan a pub golf with your flatmates as they really are the best bonding experiences.
Have fun!
Get as involved as you can in the student life that Cardiff Uni has to offer, all whilst exploring the capital of Wales. With all these tips and tricks you’ll forget all about clearing and going to Cardiff will be the best decision you’ve ever made!
