A STUDENT from Launceston is embracing university life after overcoming homelessness and finding herself a place through Clearing.

Ash Parker didn’t get the A Level grades she wanted, following a difficult path involving homelessness and mental health issues, and was unsure of what to do next.

But a dream of improving mental health support for others drove her towards psychology, and one call to the University of Plymouth’s Clearing Centre was the chance she needed.

“I honestly thought uni was off the table for me. Typical academic exams were a challenge – I actually had a panic attack during one of my A Levels – and every time I had a plan it didn’t quite go through.”

Ash, originally from Surrey, left secondary school in 2018, and started a college course in animal management. Experiencing a decline in her mental health, she changed direction towards hair and beauty, but became estranged from her parents during that time and had to move to a homeless shelter.

“I have anxiety and was living with chronic pain (later diagnosed as endometriosis) and found that whatever plan I had just wasn’t something I was able to see through,” she explained. “I was accessing mental health support where I could, but the services weren’t consistent. I knew I wanted to pursue a career to help myself and others who might also be struggling”

Moving to her grandparents’ in Cornwall in 2020, she completed A Levels in law, sociology and psychology, and applied to a number of universities to do psychology. But her grades weren’t what she wanted and again she found herself at a juncture.

“It’s horrible when you don’t do as well as you’d like in your exams, but I knew Clearing could be a lifeline,” Ash continued. “I chose to call Plymouth as I’d experienced how friendly and supportive they were at an Open Day. I applied for the foundation year and the process was so simple, I called, spoke to a lecturer and was accepted. I also managed to get student accommodation without any stress.

“I was super nervous when I started but honestly, it’s been the best decision ever. As I declared on my application that I had a disability, I received a call early in my studies from the university’s disability team to see how I was doing and remind me of the practical, financial and pastoral support available to me. I’ve been able to access a bursary and counselling, and it’s really made a difference to my experience.

“I know there will be people out there thinking ‘what’s next?’ whether or not their exams went to plan, and it’s even more worrying when you know you need support for conditions or circumstances beyond your control. But Clearing is a great option to talk through what you need to, and be recognised for more than just the grades you’ve achieved. Clearing gave me a chance – and I want others to know they can do it too.”