Alisa Maletkovic

Tell us why you decided to go to University through Clearing?

Initially, I wanted to do an apprenticeship for graphic design after finishing my diploma at UAL. I did some research on courses towards the end of the summer, as I had no luck with finding an apprenticeship, and decided I wanted to try something new, as I have a passion for both games and illustration.

Why did you choose Teesside University London through Clearing?

I wanted to go into something games-related, and Teesside provided a variety of courses in that field. The campus being in London was a top priority for me as I wanted to stay close to home.

Why did you choose your course?

I was going to go down a graphic design route after I had finished my studies but quickly became bored of that idea and wanted to learn something new. I’d always played video games for fun and thought it would be a great opportunity to be a part of something I've always had a passion for. There were a lot of skills on the modules that I wanted to learn, especially 3D and technical art.

Can you describe your Clearing journey—how did you come across Teesside University London?

During Clearing, I used UCAS to find information on universities and their courses. At this point, I was looking at and planning to start a course late, and Teesside University London stood out to me.

How did it feel to go through the Clearing process, and what support did you receive from the university?

Given how late I was applying, the Clearing process was surprisingly easy. I called the university, asked if their course was still open for applications and filled out their forms – all this took no more than a day. I provided my passport in-person and that was that. It was really easy!

What stood out about Teesside London compared to other universities you were looking at?

The fact that it was a technology-focused, London-based campus, centred around games and business.

How did the location in London influence your decision?

I was born and raised in London, so I wanted to be home while studying. I also wanted to take advantage of the fact that London is a huge networking hub and technological city. With the modern industry I'm looking to be involved in when I finish my studies, I can only hope to find a variety of connections while I'm here.

What advice would you give to future students considering Clearing?

Take advantage of the fact that you can start at different dates. There is no pressure to start in September like everyone else, and it allows you to take more time to research what you really want to do. I can only say as a home student the process is a breeze.
As someone who felt extremely pressured to start a course before applications closed at the end of summer, because all my friends were going to university, I dove into everything so quickly. I hadn’t even seen the campus until my first day of studying. It was the best decision I made.

What has been your favourite part of studying at Teesside University London so far?

Personally, I had no idea I was joining a brand-new campus as one of the first students. I was prepared to be in a class full of games students who knew what they were doing. I ended up as part of a small class of four, which turned out to be the best-case scenario for me. I have as much support as I need from my tutors, the connections between my classmates and tutors feels tight-knit, and, as a result, I have learnt far more than I could have imagined in two years.
I also feel like my tutors really make an effort to have us involved in events and real-life experience within and outside our projects. It is a privilege to be given an opportunity to do a summer internship AND be paid for it.

How has your experience here shaped your goals or future plans?

I have built my confidence and learnt a lot of skills that have opened my mind to what kind of area I want to specialise in for future work.