Jenny Tranham

Mature student Jenny Tranham explains how she came to study at Essex via Clearing.

What was your experience like in Clearing?
I was a mature student who had previously been studying my degree by distance learning whilst bringing up my daughter.

I had always wanted to go to university, but when I became a mother quite young I thought I would never get the opportunity.

I applied to Essex through Clearing on a whim; I never thought I would get in. The whole experience was great. I initially spoke to a really friendly adviser and then spoke to somebody from my department, who was really reassuring and kind. I cried when they offered me a place!

I wasn’t on the UCAS system that year but the admissions department guided me through the whole process, and it happened really quickly. The university helped me with finding my daughter a place at the on-site nursery, and before I knew it, it was time for my first week.

Why did you choose Essex?
As a parent, I didn’t want to uproot my young daughter, so I was incredibly lucky to have such a world-class university on my doorstep.

I really wanted to study US Literature and the Literature department at Essex has amazing academics who specialise in this area. Being taught by world-class researchers was a huge pull for me, as was the incredibly friendly and inclusive environment on campus.

What are the best things for you about choosing Essex?
Coming to Essex truly changed my life. It opened to my eyes to so many different cultures, exposed me to truly challenging academic possibilities, and allowed me to explore my true potential.

I met life-long friends, made amazing memories and wouldn’t have changed a single day of my time here. I loved it so much, I stayed on for an MA, and I now work here!

What would your advice be to someone in Clearing this year?
Stay calm. It’s a stressful time, but it’s also an exciting one too.

• Applying to the University of Essex through Clearing