YOUNG people in Hounslow have reacted to the news that nearly one in three university applicants will be unable to secure a place.

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service has revealed that an extra 68,000 people applied to study at university this autumn compared to last year.

This brings the number of people vying for a place up to 660,000. It is expected that a record 225,000 students will be disappointed.
The Chronicle took to the streets of Hounslow to find out your views.

Adam Harmack, 21, of Chester Road in Hounslow, said: "It is a real shame to hear this news, I just think the cost has gone up too much. I wanted to go because I was finding it hard to find work in computing which is what I was hoping to do. I was considering applying but hearing about this has put me off going even more now."

Cindy Onwuokwu is only 16, but is already thinking about her options for the future. The Convent Way resident said: "People are finding it really hard now. I think people need to think about what is best for them more than ever.

"I am hoping to go in the future to do either childcare or acting and I am a little concerned about whether or not I will get a place."

Kelly Moore, 22, of Bath Road in Hounslow, said: "It's a real shame for people who really want to go to do something specific but it just costs too much now."

Seroj Shrestha, 21, of Martindale Road took the decision to study a four year accountancy course at the London College of Accountancy.
He said: "I made my decision to go to college instead quite early on, I wanted to be an accountant from the start. I think university is too expensive. This issue with places is very sad news."

Prakash Gecee, 20, of Great West Road, said: "I am at college studing hospitality, I made the choice because I really liked the subject. I am still considering going to university in future but it is clearly going to be a struggle. I am not too worried, what will be will be."

UCAS chief executive, Mary Curnock Cook, said: "This year's applications landscape is clearly more competitive than ever. For those that don't meet the conditions of their offer this year, the UCAS team is here to offer information and advice to help applicants make the right choices, which could include applying through Clearing, reapplying in future, accessing part-time or distance learning, or considering work-based options such as apprenticeships."