I failed my A-levels...
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- Опубликовано: 28 июл 2018
- Please give yourself time if you're not sure of what to do yet, life isn't decided at 18!
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I'm Sophie Michelle, pleasure to meet you! I'm an acting student from the UK and a RUclipsr in my free time. On this channel expect to see lots of lifestyle, fashion and Disney related content (with positivity and body confidence thrown in!)
I've also been creating ASMR content for over a year now. ASMR is content made for relaxation and sleep. Make sure to check it out: / prettynaturals
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All my love!
Sincerely,
Sophie x
As a teacher myself, I have a few things to say:
1. GCSEs and A-Levels are not the be all and end all. If you’re stressing this summer, just remember that there is so much more to life than grades. That’s not to say they aren’t important, but they are part of the fabric of many other things that will make up your life.
2. Teachers, on the whole, do care. They want you to do well. They want you to succeed. It’s dreadful when I hear about teachers like Sophie’s who thought it was acceptable to mock a student like that, but I like to think this is a minority. If you’re struggling - TALK TO YOUR TEACHER! They might be more understanding than you think.
3. Following on from this - the school system is tough, but again, teachers are just trying to do the best they can. A-Levels and GCSEs are massively stressful for students, but trust me, they are stressful for us too. Knowing this might help you understand where we come from a little better, so if we act tired and crabby and we’re short with you sometimes, it’s just because of the crazy weight of the expectations the government puts us under. We’re all in the same boat here!
4. University is not the only option. Far from it. In fact, I’m more and more inclined to believe that university should be a choice for far fewer people, as it isn’t necessarily the best way to get a decent paying job anymore. I loved university because I loved studying, but I certainly haven’t ended up with a well paid job! Consider apprenticeships, part-time courses, etc as well and find the thing that suits YOU.
5. Whatever you do, you’ll be fabulous. There are people out there who failed all their exams and have done fantastically well. It’s important to work hard, but it’s also important to keep a good balance. Don’t let it consume you.
Most importantly - GOOD LUCK!! 💚
Lizzie M I pinned your comment cause I thought it was just so needed for young people so thank you! 💖
Lizzie M this actually makes me feel allot better! Thanks!
My pleasure - as is your video which I'm sure has helped a lot of people stop stressing! :)
You're very welcome
I don’t agree with less people needing to go to uni. Unskilled jobs are going to decrease as time goes on and skilled ones in STEM are going to increase, right?
To put it simply, the jump from GCSE’s to A-levels are like going paint-balling once, then being parachuted into Syria to fight ISIS
Pretty decent comparison
I disagree, I think the difference is you need to write more effectively and study more consistently. That’s what I think is the big diff. GCSEs was mainly spoon fed.
Wait till u go to uni, a levels seem like year 2 sats
Rich 91 Oh well it might depend on the subject, I'm studying veterinary medicine at Edinburgh
Exactly
People really don't understand what an illness can do to you.
True. Ignorance is bliss I suppose!
True.
7/9 of my close friends had to go to therapy as a result of A-Level pressure, one of those friends dropped out of school all together because he was so suicidal that he couldn't cope. The school system needs to change. Children shouldn't want to kill themselves because of their education and the pressures it causes. We need to fix it. xx
That's so awful to hear. I really hope both you and your friends are doing better now. Education should be inspiring and exciting, not daunting! Xx
Sophie Yeomans why do middle class people stress so much. Y’all be taking some next drugs every weekend and get pissed but still manage to scrap a A? Your friend is overthinking too much let’s be fr.
Fuck The educational System. Fuck the World. I hope the World will end. CURSE THE WORLD. HUMAN SHOULDN'T EXIST IN THE FIRST PLACE
@@KakashiH318 You don’t get it do you…. Your GCSEs and A level results determine the quality of university you go to and the scholarship offerings, which are vital because universities aren’t easy to afford for a lot of people, and you don’t get a second shot, unless you really wanna use another year and thats something most people don’t want to resort to. Other than that, it also depends on how much you’re pressured by your family and relatives who will judge you based on it (which is pretty Fed up) and you just don’t want to be humiliated just because of a bad grade
@@haadyabdul1683 L take
The school system really needs to change. In my school having mental health issues from the pressure has pretty much become the norm, I have panic attacks in exam season and I'm considered a good student.
It's so messed up that anxiety is a norm for kids! Something should change support wise
Considered a 'good student' by English standards yes, but how would you fare against elite Chinese and Singaporean students? That is a different question. These exams are absolutely pathetic compared to their Asian counterparts (e.g. Zhongkao and Gaokao), so having mental health issues over them seems like tomfoolery. The countries above us in the PISA league tables probably pity us.
@@TheAwesomeTolga198 Their students just commit suicide instead, that's their norm
@@formulaintuition8756 Classic excuse not to raise standards.
@@TheAwesomeTolga198 Just because there are harder exams elsewhere doesn't make it silly to be affected by mental health issues with your current situation. And calling suicide an excuse is digusting, you probably have no idea how those students feel.
Totally understand. My father passed away just before my GCSE exams and I ended up getting low results and failing a lot of my subjects. I took a year off before I went to college and then university, and last week I graduated with a First. Everybody has a different path, education isn’t the be all and end all.
Im so sorry for your loss.Couldn't have said it better myself. Congrats Charlotte! 💖
Back in 2000, I did quite badly in my Alevels, getting 2 D’s and a E but still managed to get into my just choice of Manchester University. I got a 2:1 in chemistry and a PhD from the National University of Singapore. I am now a Assistant Professor at a university in Denmark. I always thought about repeating my Alevels but thought it was pointless because in the end, Alevels are just a means to an end that becomes obsolete once you get your degree.
What how because the grade boundaries for chemistry are so high especially at Manchester university
I've had many breakdowns because of exams. Theres so much academic pressure on us and at the end we all end up getting admin jobs that require no qualifications.
Very true! I know so many people that have degrees now working in kfc or behind a desk!
Sincerely Sophie unfortunately since im applying to medicine i have no choice but to go uni 😭
You know, I'm 39 years old so I'm not really in the target audience for this video, but I just wanna point out how awesome it is of you to make this video for people at that point in their lives, and also to say you're completely right. Kids just entering adulthood should be less worried about what to do with the rest of their lives. Certainly be responsible in your choices but it's ridiculous the amount of kids that place way too high a stake on how their immediate choices will carry them for the rest of their lives.
Yeah you're not kidding I take prescriptions now. Damn diabeetus.
I agree. I'm in my early 40s. Things that seemed so important at 18 or 21 are barely a blip now.
Very, true. I did the thing I wanted to do when I was a teenager and it was really not a job I could be happy in or could sustain me long-term. People are pressured to make huge decisions on very little life experience. I'm back at university now at 39 and re-learning a lot of subjects from better teachers has made me realise the poor quality teaching we had to put up with at school. The idea that would influence someone thinking they are bad or good at a subject really infuriates me. I will always encourage my kids to take those big decisions slowly and not close doors for themselves, you are not tied into anything really at that age and it's getting easier and easier to take other routes into uni or a career.
@@MsCaleb79 lol 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Can I just say I admire you so much for this video! There are so many academic pressures that sometimes it can feel like university is the only option. This was really inspiring ❤️
There is so much more to life than university! Glad you enjoyed it Eve 💖
I know this is an emotional video but your voice deserves to be in a commercial, it’s so soothing
Thank you! I'll let my radio lecturer know he should get me some jobs 😂
I did really badly in my A-Levels as well despite having great GCSE results. I remember being so worried but I was accepted into Birmingham City Uni through clearing and was elated at the thought that I had received a second chance. Turns out I hated my course (Accounting) and I quit half way through of the first year. My family was so disappointed but I tried to explain to them that Accounting was not my passion. I was still interested in Business so I thought about doing a Business related course but by then BCU had left a sour taste in my mouth.
I went home and got a sales assistant job for the remainder of the year. Then I went to a college to retake my a-levels because I knew that I still wanted to go to university but couldn't do so with my existing poor grades. I studied on weekdays and worked on weekends for the entire academic year. On results day, my new AS-Levels grades were mediocre. However, it along with my older A-Levels it gave me enough UCAS points to go through clearing with the University of Hertfordshire.
So here I am a 2:1 graduate in a Business and Finance degree. It has taken me 2 extra years to reach the goal of being a graduate.
Whether you want to go university or not, take or retake A-Levels or not, if you have a goal in mind keep working at it and I believe that you can reach it.
That's so inspiring that you chose to do what you wanted regardless of pressure from your parents. Congrats on your degree!
Thank you!
Failing your a levels or GCSEs =disappointing
When you've been lying about your grades on your CV for 15 years =priceless
Brandon l I got good grades at A-Level, but nobody ever checks them. They are mainly there to get into uni, and people do fine without uni.
Cobalt Lupus I heard prison has pretty high grade requirements
@Cobalt Lupus how??
No one asks for your A Level grades anyway, and if you can still blag your way to getting a degree then they become even more irrelevant.
Cobalt Lupus You can get sent to prison, but not over lying about GCSE level qualifications on a CV. It would have to be qualifications on a higher level degree, which employers will usually ask for proof of anyway. Most likely case scenario is you’ll get a disciplinary at work and fired from your job.
It annoys the life out of me when teachers have such a snarky attitude when they hear a student doesn't want to pursue their subject as a career. They're supposed to support you regardless. I'm so sorry about your bad experience with A-levels. At least you're not letting it get you down now, your job was obviously a benefit for you and helped you shine!! Everyone should be allowed to decide what they want to do in their own time, and you're living proof of that and you're obviously happier for that!
I have a brother who wanted to do nothing more but be a truck driver and that's what he's done all his life, doing daily local runs. His company is stable and he's always had a steady paycheck coming in. He married a ditzy blond when he was 25. She has a four year college degree in art with a minor in English and has never done a serious thing with it her whole life. She's just worked flunky jobs. They both have good work ethics. They're approaching 60, live in a very nice house that they had built new and take Caribbean cruises. You don't have to have a college degree to live the good life but a good work ethic is invaluable.
Work ethic is key! Sounds like they've got a lovely life!
I needed to hear this
"a ditzy blonde" wow calm down there u raging misogynist
that is exactly what i would love to be doing
One of my science teachers called me “an arty farty loon” because I wasn’t taking Science or Maths for A level, but History, Geography, Politics and Religious Studies. Seven years on, I now have a BA in History and a Master’s in Heritage and Museum Studies and I work as a Learning Assistant in a Castle, my dream job! Make sure you follow your own path everyone. No one should make that decision for you and/or make you feel less for following you heart 💗
I got an A at GCSE maths and then went on to get an E at As level cus of the difficulty difference.I had to beg the maths department at my college (best decision ever) to let me stay on and they did on the condition I went to workshops at lunch once a week. I ended up going most lunches and I got an A* at alevel. It's my proudest achievement lol
Alexander Bartlett I love stories like this. What did you go on to study at uni?
Alexander Bartlett congratulations, just goes to show what hard work can achieve
That's such a great achievement congrats!
Good lord you're a damn Saint
I failed my A levels too. A few years later, I enrolled on a degree course that had a foundation year, so entry grades weren’t important. Came out of it with a 1st class honours. Honestly, to anyone that’s failed, don’t worry, you can make up for it later. Foundation years are a great way to get onto a course and employers are more interested in your degree and knowledge and not your A level grades. The good thing about experiencing failure is that it makes you more driven to succeed next time. Also, don’t go to uni “just coz” go to uni if it’s a course you’re actually passionate about otherwise, you will likely get bored and fail out. There are other routes instead of uni such as apprenticeships too.
Thanks for the advice
I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome at 16. I received brilliant results for my GCSE's, I got 8 A's and was expected to end up at a Russell Group University. After my diagnosis I was sleeping 18 hours a day, was constantly severely ill with chest infections and fell into a deep depression. My school was very unsupportive and I ended up failing my A-levels. Only subject I managed to get a pass in was English. I ended up working on building up my health and going for an Open University Degree. I was told I would never make it to uni by my sixth form head of year. Today I am starting my final module for my BA Degree in Literature and have received distinctions in my modules. Never lose hope x
Thank you for being so inspiring! I'm so glad you proved them wrong and did something for you! x
The new A-levels are a mess. AS levels don't exist anymore so students have to remember all of the information from both year 12 and 13 and learn to understand the new language and way the questions are phrased and get good levels in year 13 by doing just A-level exams but it still has the same amount of content.
I'm studying geography, music and photography and the work load is seriously effecting me. In geography I'm honestly lost. I'm stuck on a U and it hasn't changed throughout the whole of year 12. I'm a very quiet student and I don't really have any friends to talk to. I am suffering from anxiety and depression and on top of this I feel like I'm going to fail and there is nothing else I can do. I only have 5 Gcses which are Cs and Bs so I don't have those to back me up either.
I honestly don't know what to do. I genuinely can't cope and I think geography is going to ruiny life. (As dramatic as that sounds it's true)
Kim Griffin I understand completely! I’d definitely recommend trying out college and maybe doing a btec. The work load is wayyy less intense and the results are equally beneficial. X
@Kim Griffin don’t worry about A-levels just try to get a passing grade. I got a D,E,E in my a level maths, and sciences. Now I am in uni studying engineering through foundation year. So don’t worry everything will be alright. If you get no offers from unis, clearing is a great way to go in.
Wow. NO ONE deserves to feel like this and everyone deserves someone to talk to. Anxiety is a bitch especially in situations like yours. If you’re okay with it, I can be someone whom you can vent to, or talk to in this matter, I don’t mind.
I did geography (the last year for the old spec) but i did well, got an A in AS and a B overall. Half my class dropped out after failing the first year, it really isn't a subject for everyone but i really enjoyed it so i guess that helped me out. You can always do a 3rd year
Photography and Music are my passion so they most definitely aren't garbage. Take your negative ass outta here
I saw that you fighting with your tears in some part of the video and cut out most of them.
Whatever happens i hope i never see it again, angels never cry Sophie stay strong you are a very very precious people and no matter what stats you have.
I and many other peoples thrust you don't disappoint your followers with that, you sorting yourself about stats you are way more than just stats everything is going to be fine im sure of it.
I wish i could help you more than these words but im living too far from the UK so all i can do is to wish you all the best in your life including all your family members bless your name and give you all my love through these letters and hope you feel better for it.
Sorry for the bad English greetings from Hungary.
A Levels was the worst years of my life! I had to re- take so many modules & ended up in my last exam term taking ELEVEN exams as I had to re- take literally everything at the same time. I ended up getting two B’s, one D and C in AS level. It is what it is. Just finished uni so life moves on
Exactly! Wishing you the best in your future!
I got an E in my A Level maths mock. Retaking it in less than a month. My issue is I just dont revise. GCSE's you can fly through honestly just by attending classes, A-Levels are a whole new challenge.
I guess it all goes down to what suits the individual. I was similar in that I never studied for gcses once but A Levels I had to study for months just to achieve the grades I did!
People shouldn't say they failed. But realized they failed ONCE. There is always another try, but this time, you'll know what you're going to face, how things work, and this time, you'll be ready.
I'm the purest exemple of a failure. EVERYTHING I tried, I failed it, whether it is at school, job, love life, social life... Yet I haven't given up. Because you can fail a few times, but you only need to succeed once.
Giving up is nothing more than permanently failing.
I found someone like me ..I fail at everything too and yet not ready to give up.. especially A level ( sitting for the 9th time, no exaggeration)
@@hera9590
How did it go?
@@n.a7848 happy to say i cleared it :) now sitting in a university acing that
@@hera9590
Well done !!!!
In so happy for you may allah find you constant success for you inshallah
@@hera9590 omg, yes Queen
Hey this popped up on my recommended. I know exactly what you went through it's crazy. I left my college two years ago with just a D in maths; I'd been removed from my other two subjects at around march. No one at my college was of any help. I had no one to speak to. My further maths teacher had called me pathetic to my face after i'd missed the homework deadline for like the 100th time straight. I had no choice but to take a gap year and figure things out. I worked at a hotel as a waiter for the next year and it was honestly the worst experience of my life. It was a massive wake up call. I re-applied to another college the year after (this academic year) and set out to give it 100%. I decided to retake my whole AS aswell as the A2 in 1 year under a different exam board. I had 15 exams to do. I got my results a few days ago, and achieved A*, A and B in maths, further maths and physics. God, i wanted to cry.
My old friends are entering their third year of uni and i'm just about to start my first. These past two years have been absolute hell for me. But i'm just so excited to start my future. Just sharing my story, thanks for sharing yours. :)
GOD!!!! Well doneee this makes me so proud without even knowing you!!!! I am doing maths&physics at A levels and want to do electrical engineering. AS year was horrible- my mum died that year and I changed school for my a levels.. i can not even explain how unmotivated and horrible i felt during first year of a levels.. my grades consequently were horrible.. but this year i am improving, working hard on improvement and it is better but still not good enough. I was good student, got good GCSEs but then this. I will remember A levels as awful time due to so many reasons: my new school is very unsupportive, i have high anxiety disorder diagnosed in my A2 and all of this os freaking hard.. But my goal is to be electrically engineer. I want it so bad that i cry sometimes of happines imagining myself as successful female engineer one day.. Its hard currently but every day i keep pushing, either being it loads on work on some days or very little on others.. But i keep pushing.. And hopefully will be successful female engineer some day.. ❤️
I'm glad you're talking about this. I graduated from a carreer that it's not my passion, due to that thought that we're supposed to do so, immediately, and although I had excellent grades (only because I'm a nerd) now my life is just... Unfulfilling. Also, people without careers sometimes make more money than I do, at my city at least.
So, neither grades nor University matter that much.
Sophie, thanks for sharing!
Gram Stainer hi, just out of interest, what degree did you graduate in?
Imo students are under wayy too much pressure. Having to pick what potentially you’ll be doing for the rest of your life.
Ideally if everyone would work in something they enjoyed that would be great. GCSEs should be a 1 year course and A levels a 3 year course.
I hugely respect you for putting out a video like this. I’m an A level drop out.
Never give up buddy!!!
@@amalali33335 i failed mine this year and honestly i dont know whether i shud rewrite this year or next year. im just tired of this
@@mrblueblack If you still have faith even though it's little, go for it! If your instinct, gut feeling and inner voice ask you to take the exams this year, by all means do it! We only have ourselves to rely on, have faith! ❤
Remember that quality is always over quantity. If you do a 3 hour effective revision session everyday, it really does worth more than studying at school for like 7 hours (in my school). Quality is everything! Good luck Jedidiah, may God ease your affairs ❤
@@yannatan6797 thanks a lot
So are you homeless know?
I failed my A-levels. I now live in Canada, had a high-paying job, still went to university, got a degree and sent several emails to my old school to rub it in.
Howwwwwww
Because universities operate on a supply and demand principle. Some courses don’t get enough applications.
How'd you get into uni dude? I'm a week from A levels and I know it's over. I've only just started studying. I know I'll not make it to uni but myself I'm not too overly panicked as I may be OK with learning plumbing from my father instead. That will hopefully allow me to make a living. I will maybe retake them if I can but we'll see man. Pray for me lol.
@@nathantorresstanevil6958 how is life going now, im in the exact same position ngl
20 yrs ago I did fantastically well at GCSEs and then abysmally badly at A levels, it was too much of a jump from gcses to a levels for me and I lost my confidence.
I lost all my confidence too with a levels! It ended up making me feel stupid! Way too much pressure on young people these days!
Sincerely Sophie Yes, higher education doesn't have to be for everyone and there should be more routes into employment that doesn't always involve a levels or a degree, it's not easy being young, but life is the best education there is :)
Thank you for this video. I did well in my GCSEs and was predicted A*A*A in my A-levels. I got 3 Bs during my mocks and because of this I pushed myself to revise my ass off when it came to the real A-levels. I was confident, I thought I was ready, before my mocks I’d gotten nothing but A’s in test papers and I knew I could do it. This past month has been literal hell, I’ve walked into every single exam completely sleep deprived due to anxiety attacks the night before, I haven’t walked out of a single exam feeling confident. I have my final English Lit exam tomorrow and I feel like I know nothing, I’m too tired and am struggling to find the energy to revise last minute and just want to get it over with. I already know my exams haven’t gone to plan, and I can feel that the next year is going to be a hard one. This video was comforting to watch, I really appreciate it, and it gives me a glimmer of hope in terms of my future prospects.
how did u do today? xx
@@millicent9235 got A* A B - got into my uni of choice 😭 - extreme stress, mental health issues and a lack of sleep and self care led me to overreact I guess. I’m very happy with my results and look forward to starting my at my uni following my gap year :)
Sorry to hear that sophie but you're right, seems like education still convince people if they don't have good grades then they can't do what they'd like to do without saying they passed an exam instead of actual experience or passion for something, they definitely do it on purpose
Welcome to bureaucracy & Western society. Please enjoy your failures, less economically profitable/able (that's the message from modern society & governments from top wealthiest nations)
You have to have some kind of academic standard though... Experience and passion are important but lowering the bar by saying that academic achievement isn’t important is just false.
Academic achievement shows that you know at least something and are willing to know/learn something you don't need (especially with the way they teach what of the subjects they teach, doesn't touch on the important contexts, fundamentals or branches children can use to study the topic further, understand or re-educate themselves) or probably won't use. So yes, it's important to know at least something and be able to _apply_ it to your/everyday situations, since that's how you'll survive in this society.
Then there's the *ability* (& speed for some general cases) to learn and the capability of adapting to new environments and situations, aka the capability to get the most out of [new] experiences
I always watch this when im feeling stressed about school as i seem to fail everything but even tho i cry it makes me feel so much better
Hey, I just wanted to drop a comment to say I really appreciate your honesty and openness in sharing your journey, i really really relate going from a* to U because this happened to me, I've never come across anyone else who's also had such a turn of events, so thank you! A lot more people can relate to your story then you may think!!
Well said Sophie!
I imagine a lot of people will be watching videos like this in the coming months, especially with the current COVID-19 outbreak having such a huge impact.
Similarly to you I was always in the top sets and predicted grades. I went to a poor school who did not inspire me to move to further education. I left school at 16 and joined the military and similarly to you getting a job in the Diner it gave me the skills I needed in the future. Fast forward 13 years and I am an Engineering Manager in a large utilities company, had articles and research published in technical journals and last year I completed my Degree in Civil Engineering.
Overall, whatever path you may take after leaving school if you try hard and are determined to succeed then you will achieve more than yourself, or anyone else ever thought you could!
Great sentiment and an honest and accurate message, keep up the great work on your channels.
This is why coursework is a smarter choice. I'd rather not put my grades at risk in case i had an off day during an exam.
Coursework is the best way! My entire degree is based on essays and coursework. No exams whatsoever!
Not everything happens for a reason. Sometimes, shit just happens.
Theo_Caro for a reason. You'll realise it sooner or later. I do all the time
grapejuice That is a fallacy called Hasty Generalization. Some of the sufferings from your past having lead to good things in the future does imply that all of them have, or that all of them will. Why do people live in abject poverty their whole lives? Why are there people that literally starve to death? There is no reason, and believing their is only makes it harder to change these things. Philosophical Optimism is simultaneously absurd and insulting. If all works out for the best, then there is no room for moral progress, no way we can make our society a better place to live. All works out for the best, so if your friend falls off a ship into the sea... all works out for the best so no need to save them. In fact, there is no need to address any sort of evil.
Shit happens. We need the grit and the guts to turn things around.
Theo_Caro everything happens for a reason mate. We're not always in control 😂
Theo_Caro Apart from the understanding of reincarnation (on which the INFORMED argument has been over for 50 yrs) & karma, things don't make much sense. The significant things in life most assuredly do 'happen for a reason.' But it's fluid, not 'predestined;' by no means written in stone.
I hope you live a long, healthy, happy life. But one day, when you return Home, you'll see.
grapejuice life is purely down to chance
Dear Sophie, thank you for sharing and caring. There should be more A-level stories like this. I can't believe your story resonates with me all these years after I did my A-levels. Watching this brings back a lot of difficult memories for me! 🌸
I'm glad to hear you agree! Its all hush hush about how stressful it can really be!
@@sophiemichellegoodall a bit like becoming a first time mum but that's another story.
Honestly Thankyou so much for this video, coming up to results I always feel the need to watch videos and the amount of people’s videos who have 3 A’s or A*s is mental! I’m not being mean and it’s really amazing they’ve achieved it but it makes the rest of us feel bad about our grades. I really appreciate how real you are and that you’ve moved on and kept trying! Thankyou so much for this video, you’ve no idea how important it is that people make videos on a spectrum and not just all A* students.
It's the reality that most kids don't get into Oxbridge with A*s. I'm glad I can bring some truth back into the education system!
University is not for everyone. The education system tries to push you towards the university route, but I never went. I only got 2 GCSE's above a C grade (English and Maths) and one of those I had to retake to get the C grade. I did terribly. But I went to college eventually and studied film. I graduated from there with a BTEC level qualification at the second to highest grade possible which I was super happy about. However they still wanted to push me to go to university. I refused and decided to go straight into work.
Most of the positions I applied for required post-graduate qualifications so I had to take the really low jobs; runner/driver, office PA etc often working for expenses only or for free. My parents were super understanding and helpful, allowing my to stay at home rent-free while I was getting all this experience. Guys, number 1 stop is always your parents if you're struggling. Of course they'll help you out in whatever way they can, they're your parents!
After a couple of years of that I managed to start going it alone as a freelance video editor using the connections I made during the early days. Now I'm working for a major post production company in central London due to my experience in working with clients, not my very meager qualifications. I learned so many life lessons during that time and I genuinely think it was being out in the 'real world' that helped me learn those. University couldn't have prepared me for what it was like in the industry. I would have been just as clueless at the start but with a massive amount of debt to carry as well.
University is not for everyone, guys. It's not your only option. Whatever you choose, you can make it happen. There is no one road to getting where you want to. (Sorry for the long post)
Thank you for the video Sophie, it's not a widely talked about subject and it's good to know your experiences from it. Best of luck to you all!
I agree ...i wish i never went university...its just a cycle government wants you to follow so they cut your wages by taking student loan.
Tbh nobody ever tells us what's actually in the A level courses I weep😭
Yes! And then once you find put usually it's too late to switch courses! 🤔
Sincerely Sophie exactlyyyyy
I was in the exact same boat as you. I got great GCSEs and awful A level results so I can relate
Chloe Anna I was in the same position as you. My GCSE results were good, but my A-Level results weren't that great. I could have done better, but it didn't help I was suffering from anxiety around the time. Fortunately, I ended up graduating from university with a Masters in Law.
balltongue666 where did you graduate from if you don't mind me asking?
Same here. I didn't get great A levels either. Being at sixth form made me really depressed as I didn't really want to be there but I didn't feel ready for the apprenticeship route. As a result, I found it hard to work half the time as I felt really shit. In the end it still worked out alright as the uni I wanted still took me and I've just finished my first year studying Forensic Investigations.
They changed the rules at my school. It's no longer an AS at Yr12 & exams at Yr13. It's actually mocks at Yr12, and if you fail, you fail Yr13, so you drop the failed subjects. They don't allow you to retake them anymore. (This is being introduced in the North East Consortium in Dagenham) I hate that, I can't continue doing Maths & Economics in Yr13. Got E's in both mocks this passing July. The only achievement was the B in Computer Science.
I'm okay with the way we work in Sixth Form, but the exams in A-LEVEL, are a FLIPPING NIGHTMARE!! Some say they're even worse than Uni exams! Needless to say, I'm the challenge from the content at A-Level, but the exam scope in tangent with the limited time with like 3 essays at the end of each exam... WHAT THE FUCK, ENGLAND? YOU REALLY THINK PEOPLE ARE BOTHERED TO BE THAT PREPARED TO BE STIMULATING THE COUNTRY FOR YOU LIKE THIS? In the greater scheme of things, it's cheap labour.
Same, I wonder how many people are in this situation.
This was some serious food for thought for someone who is suffering from severe Anxiety and depression. Thank you so much! :)
Thank you so so much for posting this video in time for results. I had some issues with my mental health this year, which got worse during exam season, and I'm almost certain I've failed at least AS maths, if not all of my exams. I'm absolutely terrified, as I've always been an A* student, did very well at GCSEs, and I was meant to be a prospective Oxbridge applicant. I did not have the outward pressures you did, but I'm so glad you posted something like this letting people know it's okay to trip. It really doesn't feel like it now, but it's comfortable to know you can get back up again
*comforting
I had a number of issues and scraped CCD on my a levels. Time has passed since then and I'm averaging 80%+ in a Russell group university.
A levels are horrendous and I wish everyone the best in their a levels but if you don't do well don't think for a second you should give up.
Oran Deutsch how did you manage to get in?
relatablerubish I did a engineering extended diploma alongside resitting my a level maths. I had to contact universities directory to see if they accept it. Fortunately the university of Leeds let me in for mechatronics.
In hindsight 16-17 was too early for me to know what I wanted to do so I could never find any motivation.
A disclaimer to anyone watching this video in 2020 -
Although this is a valid point of view, Sophie was following the old spec for the subjects that she was taking and quite a few things differ in that respect.
Also, AS levels are being scrapped now so you have to do the full 2 years for most subjects to get the qualification.
Her reference to the youtuber on the news - Unjaded Jade - she finished her Alevels with 3 A*, although I appreciate her point about the difficulty of Alevels. Just keep that in mind...
Thank you so much for posting this, as well as your voice being super relaxing this really helped me feel less overwhelming stress and pressure about my pending a level results x
i'd love more videos like this, inspirational realistic and reassuring x
Of course 💞 best of luck to you and be proud of yourself no matter what happens x
This is so helpful to me - I am about to get my A level results and I am terrified!! I also had a family tragedy very very similar to yours while I was studying for my A levels and it completely derailed them. Seeing you be successful regardless of your situation and the timing of it has given me much hope for the future, so thank you :) x
This video is so important thank you, I’m currently waiting on my A-Level results knowing I’ve failed due to health complications I had all through the school year. I have 50% attendance due to constant admittances to hospital. The dread I have in the pit of my stomach knowing exactly what I’m walking into next week nobody should have to feel. Thank you so much Sophie 💕💕💕💕
There isn’t any support at school college or otherwise. I went to college 3 times. They moved so quickly I couldn’t keep up. Nor could I absorb the information being taught.
Angela Tillman Gotta keep you paying for classes to milk you for the loans and to buy those books. Colleges are a business first after all.
Can't you just read a book and watch a few RUclips clips?
Its not the schools fault if youre stupid
You do what you love to do! I'm so glad you're doing what you love because it means that all those maths lessons missed happened for a reason. Pursue your dreams!
calmed me down considerably, getting my gcse results has been haunting me all summer
Juliana Gaspar dude literally nobody mentions GCSEs ever once you complete them. The only thing you need from them is enough to get into college or sixth form
ENZOxDV9 some university’s and courses require good gcse results too. So for some people GCSEs can mean their whole career
Beth Lewis very true...when it comes to Russell group unis, good GCSE grades are important (from my experience anyway)
Beth Lewis no it doesn't, that's what they say to scare you
ENZOxDV1 Unis care about GCSEs now more than ever because most schools are dropping as levels so they use GCSEs to go off of for predictions, not as a major factor but certainly very important
I connect with this. A* maths GCSE doesn't give you an idea of what a level maths is like. I went from A* to C.
Your so strong to pull through your mental struggles. You deserved more in terms of help from your teachers and others. Your story is so inspirational and true. Not everyone is ready at anypoint in time in life. It's your life and you have to make the decisions that will have the best outcome for you and your wellbeing in the grand scheme of things.
Thank you, Sophie. You are such a nice, genuine person.
Thank you Sophie. Indeed, there were many paths in life. What is important is that you live your life right. No matter what happens , the life goes on.
This was such a sincere video, and I am really grateful you told us this because I was feeling p down about not being able to attend a uni I liked but I know it is not the end of the world. Much love ❤
I have just done my first year of Uni and failed myself studying commercial Music. Going back in September to redo the year. I know how it feels. But it’s great to see that your staying strong. 🙏👏
Real talk. The whole blowing up of uni and grades as the be all and end all is a lot of bs. I have a better job than people I know who’ve graduated from uni. I never went to uni and at A-levels I got too fed up with it to make an effort and didn’t see the point so I basically failed. I’ve never been judged by my grades and I’ve never struggled to get a job. Employers judge your character and your current attitude a lot more than your grades that you got at school.
So so true. Both my parents never had a higher education but are really valued for their experience. Character is the best quality to have!
Tasha Knight yes I agree with that. There are professions which require it. But uni isn’t the only avenue and only opportunity in life for most careers. I just see so many people leaving uni with degrees which cost them £30K+ just to get a job that I or anyone else could get. Or they get a grad position which is only about a 2 year boost ahead from those applying for a lower position. In most cases the cost just isn’t worth it at all in terms of a worthy investment. Uni’s now days are constantly marketing the “University experience” as the main sell now. But for such a high cost it’s no where near worth it unless your degree will get you a very highly paid and fruitful job.
Sophie, I can relate SO much to this video! I just finished my third year of Sixth Form and I'm going to uni in September but I had a lot of both personal and academic struggles during my time in sixth form, causing me to make wrong decisions and to not reach my potential in exams. I'm really glad that you've decided share your story on this platform, RUclips is such a great place for us to do this! I'm so happy that you're happy now, doing what YOU want to do 😊
“ everything happens for a reason”, I believe it too! This video helped me a lot today, thank you Sophie 🙏🏻
I had this exact experience, I almost died at the beginning of the start of year 12 and had to start late due to an autoimmune disease and emergency surgery. Then at the end of year 12 I was in the Manchester attack and had to sit exams just a few days later. What happened in Manchester hit me at the beginning of year 13 and the mental health effects was making my physical health bad and I got kicked out basically. I then cried for ages I was getting B’s and C’s I wasn’t doing bad I just had bad attendance because I was struggling and then I got essentially told I was too unwell for them to deal with which just wasn’t true but anyway... Then, I applied for courses with foundation years knowing I wanted to go to uni and was capable and probably could’ve got A’s in good circumstances. I got told by a teacher I asked for a reference that there was no point in me applying for foundation years as I wouldn’t get in as I couldn’t ‘get though’ the two years of a levels. In the end I got accepted to 4 universities, including 2 Russell Group one’s (I had to sit entrance exams and submit essays and go to interviews to get in, but it was worth it) and I’m going to an amazing uni in September and I cannot wait, a levels aren’t everything there are other ways and a levels don’t work for everyone especially people like me who had adverse circumstances and a school not willing to support them.
Good for you! I'm so sorry for what you've had to go through, the Manchester attacks are so close to home for me, I can't imagine what you've been through being there. Best of luck in September!
Thank you for this. I have a feeling that I didn't get the maths grade I need to get into my chosen uni. But this video has helped me remember that I have other options too
Very true! The world is your oyster!
For the last 2 months, every night I've laid awake trying to sleep but I've just been thinking about my results on the 16th. My parents, my brother and everyone else keeps saying 'don't stress, it'll be fine' or 'what's done is done', but never in the history of telling someone to chill, have they EVER chilled. Every time someone even mentions results, I feel like my brain is just shutting down and I just go numb. But this video has made me feel better, seeing that even though you may not have had the results you wanted, you were able to be happy.Thanks, I really needed this.
If you put your mind to it you can have any career you want! Uni isn't always the way!
Hello Sophie, what a brave and lovely thing to do helping others by sharing your story! It's sad to hear how little some teachers seem to care about their pupils and how stressful A-levels are. Life is not a straight path, sometimes you need to take a detour or change your plans. Plus I firmly believe you'll make a great actress. Take care!
this video was much needed for me. i too had been top of the class, doing excellent at gcse. but then i too encountered a lot of issues (depression, anxiety and a grandparent dying) and there was a total lack of concern and support from staff. i know that i have at least failed one, but, i always equate failure to me just being stupid or being lazy. which isn't true. i know that i want to go to uni, i really want to leave where live and honestly? even if i do not get into my uni choice, it does not mean that i cannot go to uni at all. thank you so much.
Very true! I wish all the best for you! Sometimes not getting your first choice can be a blessing in disguise!
The school system is fucked up. FULL STOP!
I love your outlook on life your so positive and really inspiring ❤️❤️ deffo worth me subscribing because you seem like such a genuine person🙏✨
Thank you my love I really appreciate It! 🤗💞
I just came across your channel, you don't not know me but I can honestly say I love you for doing this, firstly your voice is just a calm and idk it just made me at peace. Thanks for telling your story and you got a new subbie.
Powerful message, love it. Thanks for sharing.
God I really needed this, thanks so much for putting my mind back into a realistic perspective
No worries Anna! Whatever you end up doing it will be fantastic!
Thank you so much for sharing this, it really helped so much to calm all these overwhelming thoughts & feeling disappointed and I feel so much better❤️
This was so raw and real it made me proud of my life eventhough i might bot be where i always thought i would.... because its okay and every path is great and worthy of recognition and support and love
What a great way of putting it 😊
I am legit starting year 13 in September and this video is so relatable 😊 am so glad there is someone out there that says it’s ok to fail your a level because the amount of pressure I’ve got in year 12 has really made me not look forward to year 13 😣
You are amazing,
I’m sitting here freaking out about my results and this has helped me so much, I think I’m going to take a gap year and then maybe apply to a university when I am in a better place mentally
This is such an important video! Thank you for making this. I wish that all teachers would watch this!
Thank you! Yes I wish my old teachers could watch it and realise how tough things were!
This is so similar to what happened to me. I took Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths - I sat 14 exams this year, while most people I knew were taking 5-7. This year, I have really struggled with depression and anxiety. Just turning up to college and having to interact with people seemed daunting to me. This and the stress of not understanding the course content but being too scared to ask for help completely drained me and I felt like I couldn't cope. What started off as missing out a few homework tasks led to me missing lessons and eventually, I just stopped going to college altogether for about 2 months. I would pop back into to college every now and then and sit through a lesson to see if there was any chance of me getting back into it but, because I'd missed so many lessons, there were huge gaps in my knowledge of the syllabus and I had no clue what anyone was talking about. I had tried again and again to catch up, but I was so far behind and had new content to learn. I'd get overwhelmed and just pretend it wasn't there, so the workload would pile up even higher. I had gone months without seeing my friends and none of them addressed it with me, and only one of my five teachers actually reached out. I completely understand the teacher issue - it feels like some teachers automatically assume that the reason why you're not turning up is because you don't care or because you don't enjoy the subject. I really enjoyed the subjects I chose and I liked being in lessons learning new things, but depression and anxiety completely destroyed any motivation I had to go to college and learn the things I used to be so passionate about. And yes, I could've asked for help, but I was so unsure about such large chunks of the syllabus, I felt like it was useless trying to catch up and didn't want to waste other anybody's time. I tried to cram in as much revision as I could in the last 3 weeks before exams and got myself to a place where I "sort of" knew the content, but I still wasn't confident. I sat the exams in May and June, and overall it wasn't as bad as I expected, but I'm still completely bricking it for results day. I need ABB to get into University and I'm not very optimistic at all, but I just keep telling myself that I can't change what happened, so worrying about it won't help. This video made me feel a little less like my life is completely ruined :)
I’m sure we’re all used to watching RUclipsrs/studytubers get As and A*s or pass all their a-levels and get into their first choice universities but I just wanna say you’re so brave for being open and transparent about your a-level! All things are working for the good to those who love Him babes! Happy you’re in happier state and you’re doing what you love ❤️❤️
Im 32, life is definitely not over at 18. People will tell you all sorts of things but you must remember that you have to make a good faith effort to do it. The hardest person to face is yourself when your being honest. Best of luck.
Beautiful words! This has comforted me so much about my upcoming results
Dear lord, you're a beautiful person through and through. I just now saw this and it's becoming increasingly apparent how caring and nice you are. Thanks for being you.
I was a top straight As student in GCSEs but in the last 2 years I honestly dont know what hit me I was depressed going through eating disorders and in Sixthform I just couldn't sit down and study and my grades went downhill, I was running away from who I am playing video games and hated who I am all until covid 19 lockdown came in and everything got even worse. This month I did a total of 5 subjects(4 intermediate levels and 1 A level) and I still have 2 A more A levels left to do by the end of the month, I am not prepared, I am mentally tired and drained and physically tired( I had lost 31 kilos in 6 months just revenge on myself but that still didnt help) and now I am destroyed with still 2 A levels to do that i got no idea how to prepare for coz I never actually prepared seriously for, I am honestly tired and cant push and cant even sleep.
I relate to this so much. I was a straight A student at GCSE's and went on to do biology, chemistry, maths and geography along with the baccalaureate at A level. In my first year I got a B in geography, 2 D's in maths and biology and an E in chemistry. I was completely blind sighted by my results and as I wanted to go into veterinary I was no where near the grades that I needed. I've now just finished my second year and after my first year results I dropped maths and resat biology and chemistry. Due to my results being so much lower than what I needed it was advised for me to stay back a year to resit the subjects that needed higher grades so I could completely focus on them and achieve what I needed, so that's what I did. I'll now be going into my third year of sixth form where I'll spend the last year focusing on biology and chemistry as they are a requirement at a high grade for most veterinary courses. Hopefully I will stay on a B in geography so that I can forget about it and focus on what I need to.
I sincerely thank you Sophie (no pun intended) as I found it really difficult going through this whole process, especially as similarly to you I was known as a straight A student and as someone that had always excelled in school, and to then receive results that I felt did not reflect me was truly heartbreaking. I haven't come across many people that have had a similar experience to myself and so to hear you say that it'll be ok gives me so much hope. Fingers crossed that it'll all be ok for me too. Thanks again Soph, much love❤️
Ffi i feel you, i did geography, biology and chemistry at A level. Safe to say chemistry almost killed me. Managed to scrape a C while most my year got a D or below and that doesn't count half tbe course failing AS and leaving
Whatever happens know that you've worked hard and can be proud of the effort you've put in. It's tough when people assume you'll do well and then you don't perform as they'd expect. I still feel this at university as everyone expects me to be perfect. But you can only ever do the best for yourself, not for others! 💞
your story is so beautiful, you're so strong ! I love you !
That was a really motivational talk towards the end. Thank you!!
I was actually so upset while studying for my A levels but this really gave me light and I'm still going to try and do my best for A levels :) but this gives me strength that life isn't all about exams :)❤️❤️❤️
As long as you're a hard worker and have good people skills nothing can stop you in life! 💖💖
Sincerely Sophie 😭❤️ thank you :)
Got great GCSEs but plummeting in A Levels. Me. Right now. With 4 A level exams left.
I’m really glad you did this video! I’m currently re-taking my AS year at a college instead of sixth form and I’m waiting on those results this summer. I did Chemistry, English Lit, Psychology, and Biology when I did sixth form, dropped Chemistry by Christmas and ended up getting a U in biology. Like my GCSE’s were great but like you said it’s a MASSIVE leap. My family had two deaths to deal with and I was extremely ill during exam season whilst dealing with the stress of it all because all my targets were A’s😩 I ended up skipping classes during exam season and leaving study time to go home and literally pass out. My teachers were not supportive either (mostly my science teachers) who would blame me for not revising-when i was. My mind wasn’t in the right place so it didn’t show in my work. I’m hoping this year has been worthwhile (I’ve taken English, biology and psychology and my mental health is 10x better than where I was). Thank you for sharing your experience! A levels need to be explained thoroughly because despite being very academic, it’s not always for everyone. Lots of love!!! 💓
Love this! Legit makes me think about the future! Thanks for the advice!
Great vid
I didnt get the overall grades that i wanted however now im looking to start an Apprentership (interview soon) and hope to further my education within the sport industry.
Thanks for the vid
Thank you for opening up about your results it’s really tough to do that I’m really scared I don’t want to fail
Oh Sophie this is such a good video! Such a good video! Thank you for posting this!!
💖
I remember seeing this video when I was waiting my a-level results, it was a way to prepare myself for the worst-case scenario. This was 4 years ago and now I've received a merit in my master's degree and 2:1 in my bachelor's. While they are great, they don't make me or anyone else a better or more valuable person and sometimes, people get a degree as a means to an end, so you can be more qualified for a job compared to someone with a degree, especially since employers look for experience.
Reflecting on this video, I really want to commend you for uploading this video during a time when videos of people failing were not common at all. Additionally, this video stood to the test of time, everything you said in this video is valid.
I have seen people go to work after they got their gcse or a-level results. On top of that, I have seen mature people take gcse exams. So from that, as the video said, those exams or results do not determine your future and plenty of people have had good jobs without them. Those exams do not define your worth! At the end of the day, your happiness is what ultimately matters and if not doing a-levels mean that, then that's totally okay! People have done great things without them!
I'm glad the lady in the video is doing well, it is further evidence that these results do not define you!
Dear Sophie,
Although I’m not specifically the target audience for this video, I would like to say a few things.
You are an absolute hero by making this video! I can see these subjects are very emotional for you to talk about. You are are incredibly strong and brave by sharing your story.
I noticed in your other videos that you enjoy life and really take it in. This story explains why, the story with your brother, your ex-boyfriend, the teacher and probably a lot of other thing made you who you are now... And look who you are now!
Your goal was to help, inspire and give an opinion. Let me tell you, you hit all three goals. I cant say enough how nice this is of you to share all of this. I wish there were more people like this.
Once again, thank you, and have a nice evening, week, no, life!!
litteraly slay this is what i needed to hear thank you
You are ana amazing inspiration and im glad young people can watch this and relate to what you have said and feel supported. Well done in all uve done and all ur goin to do. Godbless you, you strong young woman xx
Thank you so much xx
I've been so worried about results day basically since my last exam finished, since I feel like I've truly messed up. This video really helped to put the whole experience on A-Levels into perspective (that there are so many amazing unis i could go to instead of my firm/insurance or I could continue with my current job). Thank you for sharing your story, especially at a time when i feel like so many students have no clue how they've done with the new A-Levels, especially since we had such a limited amount of resources like past papers to practice with x
I’m just starting Year 13 in September, and I’m stressed. I had to drop an A-Level due to my psychosis, and most Unis need three to accept you.. I’m trying to stay hopeful, but it’s really scaring me. I did good in my GCSES, 12 A*-B grades, but A-Levels are a whole new challenge. I do wish I went to college! Just know that I’m incredibly proud of who you’ve become. I love you, Sophie! 💓
fuzzyjinki you can always do the two and then resit the year with a different subject so you end up with three, maybe
You can become an army officer with two A levels. Or you can apply for foundation courses at a lot of universities with a couple of A levels, although funding for them is tricky.
LOOK INTO LAW OF ATTRACTION IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE. I’m the same age as you and it’s completely changed me as a person and I’m much more happier and attracting the things I want. Don’t listen to the skeptics, cause they’re the unsuccessful ones.
Find out if ur sixth form/college offers any btec subsidary diplomas! They're an equivalent to one a-level and dead easy
i had to do 2 alevels due to health issues too. i just got into uni for a course with a foundation degree, student finance covers it
The uk system really has a big problem and I think communication is key as teachers don’t really know how to help us personally and love how you’ve shared this is really helpful and hopefully they’ll improve the stress we are all put under and help everyone out personally rather than the whole class.
Sophie I loved this video, I love you and your sincerity, I could see you clearly and now you are a huge inspiration for me. Sending you love from Brazil !
Thank you 😊
I'm so sorry that you had to go through what you did you're very strong and your determination shows through this video 💛 I have a university offer for September and I passed my A levels but because I failed my GCSE maths i had to retake it this year and I find out if I passed that 23rd if I haven't I am not getting into uni but this video has really helped me to realise that its not the end of the world if I don't get in Thank you 💛