Last year, I applied to the University of Surrey to do Dietetics, with mediocre predicted grades and a tiny voice of doubt in my head. I needed the A - level results ABB to get into Uni; I received BBC (and an additional B in General Studies...does that count...?) and needless to say I didn't make it into university that year. However, upon reflection it was honestly the best outcome for me, despite definitely not feeling that at the time!
I was forced to take a Gap year and It was amazing; I worked hard, played hard, travelled far (I may do future blog posts of my gap year experiences in more detail). That year out of education gave me a chance to reenergise and refocus, I now feel ready for university and now recognise how unready I was last year. I've resat a few A - level units and now hold the grades ABB (+ a B in damn General studies!) , the year out has really made me reevaluate what I want to do at university and where I want to go in life (phew getting deep). I drew the conclusion that I don't know what career I want, so doing such a specific degree like Dietetics was most likely not right for me. I've always loved chemistry, despite not getting the best grades in it, but I enjoy it and want to know more, so it makes sense to study chemistry at degree level. Now, I have successfully applied to the University of Loughborough to do medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry, which is where I start this september.
I think you're pretty much up to date with where I'm at right now, stay tuned for my starting university experience! If you are in the position that I was last year; don't despair, there is hope! Sometimes plan B works out better that plan A. University isn't the only option and If you are forced to take a gap year, embrace and make the most of it!