Stefani Rodham

Stefani Rodham: Introducing a city of opportunities through Clearing

When 19-year-old Stefani Rodham from Thornaby-on-Tees received her exam results, they weren’t quite what she had hoped for. With her goal of studying law still front of mind, she picked up the phone and called Northumbria University’s Clearing hotline and found her path forward.

Having always aspired to study law at university, Stefani was drawn to Northumbria’s facilities, particularly its on-campus mock courtroom, which she had the chance to visit during an open day earlier in the year.

 “Northumbria was my first thought when I started looking for university places to study law,” she explained. “The opportunity to experience mooting in a realistic setting was a big part of my decision to come here, so I ended up ringing Northumbria’s Clearing hotline and was put through immediately. The person on the other end was so friendly – I was surprised to find the whole thing was a lot less intimidating than I expected.”

After completing her first year of a Law degree at the University, Stefani is already building a strong CV. With a 12-month placement option as part of her programme, she’s aiming to gain hands-on experience as a legal assistant or paralegal to decide whether she wants to pursue a career as a solicitor or barrister.

To further develop her CV, Stefani has also sought out additional work experience as a court marshal at Teesside Crown Court in Middlesbrough - a placement she secured with support from the university. She said: “It’s obvious to me that employability is a priority at Northumbria. I received support from day one to enhance my CV, prepare for interviews and submit placement applications.”

Stefani has thrown herself into university life and has joined a number of student societies - both to advance academically and professionally, and to socialise with friends. She became a member of the MARS (Mooting, Advocacy and Research Skills) Society and was recently selected to take part in a national mooting competition. “It’s been such a good way to develop my presentation and speaking skills,” she said. “Debating real legal cases in a mock court setting has really helped boost my confidence.”

She is also involved with Grey’s Society, which focuses on professional development and industry networking. “This is a great society for students who enjoy socialising in a more laid-back environment,” she explained. “I appreciate having the space to focus on building connections within the legal field and the freedom to network without barriers.”

Stefani has even stepped out of her comfort zone by joining the Salsa and Bachata society, and is part of the Musical Theatre society. She recalled: “I’ve always had an interest in theatre and I danced a bit as a kid, but Salsa is a whole new world for me. It’s an experience I would have only had at Northumbria and it’s so much fun.”

Stefani lives at home and commutes to Newcastle by train, which she said has made the transition as a student smoother. “I like living at home—it gives me space to express myself and stay grounded,” she explained. “However, I am looking forward to moving into the city later in my degree. I can really appreciate the opportunities living in Newcastle brings, having come from a smaller town.

“I discovered the Quayside recently, which reminds me almost of a mini London. There is so much to see and get involved in here. You can’t pass it up.”

Reflecting on her Clearing journey, Stefani encourages other students in a similar position to keep an open mind. She said: “Be reassured that the process is so quick and easy. Coming to Northumbria has given me so many opportunities—not just in law, but in things I’d never imagined I’d try. I’m really glad I made the call.”

Northumbria University has a limited number of places available for high-quality students through Clearing this Summer. For more information, visit Northumbria University’s Clearing Hub.