By Nicola, BSc(Hons) Biomedical Science graduate
Graduate Nicola shares how applying to UWE Bristol through Clearing helped her reconsider her career options and change direction. Read her Clearing story.
I originally wanted to study medicine, but when I didn’t get the grades I needed, I had to rethink my next steps. That’s when I turned to Clearing. I chose Biomedical Sciences at UWE Bristol, knowing it could still lead me towards a Medical career. What I didn’t realise at the time was that this decision would open up a whole new world of opportunities.
Since then, I’ve graduated with a First, joined HSBC’s graduate scheme, and built a successful career. I’ve also become a professional boxer and now work as a keynote speaker, inspiring women to break barriers and believe in themselves.
Clearing didn’t just help me find a course – it helped me discover who I really wanted to be.
Making a quick decision that changed everything
Results day was intense. I knew what Clearing was, but making a decision so quickly – especially when things hadn’t gone to plan – wasn’t easy. I chose Biomedical Sciences because I knew it was a strong feeder course into medicine, and UWE Bristol had great rankings for the subject.
I just felt relief that I got a place on a course, and although it wasn’t what I initially wanted, it was a good plan B option.
I didn’t know much about UWE Bristol before that day, but I was drawn to Bristol as a city. It had the right mix of campus life and urban energy, and as someone passionate about martial arts, I was excited to find out it was a hub for the sport.
Settling in and finding support
I moved into Quantock halls in my first year and quickly found my feet. Even though I’d come through Clearing, I never felt like I was on the back foot.
Once I had started the course, I didn’t feel any different because I had gone through Clearing.
UWE Bristol was incredibly supportive. I have narcolepsy, and having access to the 24/7 library made a huge difference. I used a Dictaphone to record lectures, and my lecturers were always understanding and helpful.
I also joined all the UWE Bristol martial arts clubs, which helped me meet people and feel part of the community. It was a great way to balance my studies with something I loved.
A new direction and a new passion
After graduating with a First, I spent time working in a hospital in the Czech Republic with Gap Medics. It was a valuable experience, but it helped me realise that medicine wasn’t the right path for me after all.
Instead, I applied for HSBC’s graduate scheme, and I now lead a global team of over 200 people as the Global Delivery Lead – and I love it.
It actually all worked out for the better. I found out medicine wasn’t for me quicker and got a degree that gave me more flexibility.
Alongside my career, I’ve continued to pursue martial arts. I’m signed to the UK’s Top Boxing Promoter, Frank Warren, and became the first woman to compete in Burmese bareknuckle boxing (Lethwei), one of the most intense combat sports in the world. It’s taught me how to manage fear, push my limits, and stay focused, skills that have helped me in every part of my life.
Inspiring others
Today, I also work as a keynote speaker, delivering motivational talks to women and encouraging them to step into spaces where they’re underrepresented – whether that’s in sport, tech, or leadership. This is currently my favourite thing to do
UWE Bristol helped me build the confidence and skills I use every day – from analysing data and presenting ideas to leading teams and speaking on stage.
My advice to anyone going through Clearing
Clearing might feel like a detour, but it could be the start of something even better than you imagined. For me, it was the moment that set everything else in motion.
Don’t panic. Everything will work out in the end. Sometimes, the best journeys are the ones you didn’t plan.
Find out more about Clearing
Read more about Nicola’s inspiring journey as a professional boxer