My name is Tabitha Ajao, I am 25 years old and from Hatfield in Hertfordshire. I studied Psychology at the University of Bedfordshire and graduated in 2022. I then worked as Co-Vice President for Campus Engagement & Equality with Beds SU for the 2022/23 academic year.

I didn’t get my first choice option and, at the time, that seemed like it was the end of the world and there was no chance I’d go to university. When I heard about the University of Bedfordshire’s Clearing options, I thought I’d see if I could go to university after all. When I got accepted, I was just over the moon.

I found the Clearing process fairly easy. I just called and the lady I spoke to was very helpful and it was sorted within about an hour. By the end of the conversation, I already had an email about the next steps. It was a really quick and easy process.

I would say it’s been really good. I have autism and ADHD so I’ve been receiving a lot of support from the Disability Support team. The support I have received has been very helpful – it helped me to graduate at the end of the day!

I really liked being a student at Bedfordshire and I always thought that if there was something I could do to help students then it would be something I wanted to get involved in. So I then applied and became a member of the Student Union's Executive Team as Co-Vice President for Campus Engagement & Equality in 2022/23.

Earlier this year, the other Student Union’s Executive Officers and I set up a Community Pantry – a place where students can come and receive free groceries and other products, such as sanitary items and toiletries. It has already proved to be a great benefit to students who have been struggling during the cost of living crisis.

My own personal tips would be to try to budget and prep your meals as often as you can.

Definitely make sure you’re part of your Students’ Union. That’s the best place to meet people because you’re all there for the exact same reason. Freshers’ Week or Welcome Week is a great time to make friends so don’t be shy – come out of your flat and make friends!

I think the University of Bedfordshire is a great place to study and there is so much help and support through different faculties and resources. Everyone here just wants to be part of your university journey and wants to help you succeed.