My name is Rebekah Lloyd, I am 21 years old from Manchester and I have just finished my undergraduate degree in Childhood & Youth Studies with the University’s School of Applied Social Sciences.

I originally applied to study teacher training at a different university but because of the disruption of the Covid pandemic I didn’t quite get the grades that I needed for that certain course. I remember I was devastated but I did a review of my options and knew that I still wanted to go straight to university. I then used a Clearing website to look at all my options and after doing some research the University of Bedfordshire was the one that appealed to me the most.

A few days after results day, once I had done some research and got over the initial panic, I started the process of Clearing and applied to the University. The course I had been studying at college was quite similar to the Childhood & Youth Studies course, and I found the degree to be a great next step on my journey to become a qualified teacher.

I found the Clearing process to be very clear and straightforward – I knew I was in the right place. Once I had applied and been accepted, the course coordinator called me to welcome me to the University and I instantly had a sense that this was the right place, and I felt supported.

I have felt very supported by the lecturers on my course, it feels like they genuinely care and are extremely passionate about their subject. They are always there if you need any support throughout your studies.

I think the cost of living crisis has affected people in different ways. I have struggled a bit trying to manage everything going up in price with my student finance, however the University was so helpful and I was able to apply for the cost of living hardship fund.

My top tips for managing money at university would be that when you get your student finance loan, sit down and look realistically at how you can split your money over the semester. Cooking in bulk and food shopping in cheaper shops has also helped me manage my finances while I've been at the University.

My top tip for making friends would be to engage in things that your university has to offer that you are interested in – it will let you meet like-minded people who you have something in common with. From my experience I would also say keep an open mind and talk to anyone and everyone because you never know who you may end up meeting. I met my best friend through my first year flat mate and I thought we would have nothing in common or really ever become friends, but in second year we reconnected and now she’s my best friend – so you never know!

My advice would be to do your research and the university staff are here to answer your questions. I would recommend looking at the course and what it offers over the three years to get a good idea of whether it’s a degree that is right for you.