A Level Results Day One Year On - A Word Of Inspiration

This time last year, I was in the exact same position as you are now. Tossing and turning unable to sleep as I repeatedly checked how long left until results were released. Holding my breath and barely being able to look as I was so nervous. And then the ensuing relief of finally knowing, after months of anticipation. A Level Results Day is a stressful time for everyone, regardless of whether you did well or not, and so I thought I'd share some inspiration and advice to help you get through it.

Whatever results you achieve, be proud!

A Levels are incredibly hard, and so getting this far is an achievement. You survived two years of hard work, stress and late-night revision sessions, so you deserve to celebrate. Regardless of your results, you should be proud of yourself for enduring such a laborious and testing two years, so don't be hard on yourself. Also, think of the many people who dropped out or gave up after a few months, and let that put into perspective just how much you've achieved.

You'll end up in the right university

Everyone has a different story but ends up thankful for the university they end up in. Some people get their firm choice and attend the uni that they fell in love with from day one. But some people aren't accepted by their university choices and have to apply through clearing, which seems like the end of the world at the time but it won't be. I had friends crying and heartbroken when missing out on their university of choice who have now had the best experience and don't regret it in the slightest. It'll always work out for the best, whether that's from the friendships you make or experiences you gain, I can guarantee that you'll still grow to love university.

Results don't determine everything

We have it drilled in us from an early age that our results are incredibly important and will determine our entire future, but remember that they are just a small aspect of what's important. Not only are skills and experience equally as valuable, but results also say nothing about you as a person or your true character.

Have all of your backup options secured

If you think you might be going through clearing, have a list of universities and contact details to hand, as it'll save you a lot of stress on results day. Even if you think you'd never be accepted with your results, it's worth trying. Having a plan of action will make you feel much more prepared and also start to accept the idea of you going to university somewhere else.

Don't limit yourself if you did well

If you're someone who was predicted 3 B's but achieved A's instead, you may want to reconsider your choices. If there's a university that you love but was previously seemed out of your reach, it might be worth going for it. UCAS Adjustment is in place for students changing their university choice despite already being accepted at their firm or insurance, so don't be afraid to look into it. I actually went through this process myself on Results Day, as I achieved 3 A*s yet realised that Durham wasn't for me, hence deciding to study in Manchester instead.

Go out and celebrate

It's finally over, all the stress and worrying and waiting, so go ahead and celebrate! Whether that's by going out for a meal with family or out clubbing of the nighttime, you deserve to let loose and enjoy yourself!

For everyone getting their results this year, good luck and my thoughts are with you! I hope this post was helpful, and make sure you leave a comment letting me know what you're hoping for this results day!