Success: Nathan Ward, 22, who came to the University of Sunderland to study Business and Management through Clearing. Photo by University of Sunderland.
A graduate moved 200 miles to Sunderland to study at the city’s university after a friendly clearing call.
Nathan Ward, originally from Corby, Northamptonshire, was left inspired by the phone call to the University of Sunderland’s clearing hotline a few years ago.
He was accepted onto the BA Business and Management degree and graduated last year with a first class honours.
“I didn’t achieve the A-Levels I needed, but I was very keen to move to the North East – I’m a massive Newcastle United fan,” said Nathan.
The 22-year-old added: “I had heard great feedback from people who studied at Sunderland, and on my results day I decided to ring the University.
“Sunderland’s Clearing team put me right at ease at a time when I was very stressed.
“They told me they would love me to come to Sunderland, and that definitely helped make up my mind.”
Nathan is now happy to call himself an adopted Geordie, and is working for one of the region’s most prestigious small companies.
He said: ”Having to move 200 miles was hard, but thanks to the University and the friends I made on my degree I’ve been able to make a life up here.
“I secured a full-time job at BT just a couple of hours before I graduated – then a role came up at Ebac in Newton Aycliffe, and I jumped at the opportunity.”
Ebac produces dehumidifiers and washing machines and employs around 200 people in the North East.
“I’m working as a Graduate Digital Marketing Executive, monitoring and improving the performance of Ebac on our online platforms.
“My degree from Sunderland gave me the chance to learn and develop in all areas of business, and I would definitely recommend the University.
“Calling the Clearing hotline was the best decision I’ve ever made. Sunderland helped shape my future,” Nathan added.
The University of Sunderland Clearing Hotline is open on 0191 515 3000.
You can find out more online at www.sunderland.ac.uk/clearing or come along to the Clearing pop-in event on Friday 18 August from 10am-2pm, at the Gateway, City Campus, Chester Road.
No appointment is needed. Academics, financial experts and advisors will be on hand to let you know your best option for higher study.