'Clearing wasn't a setback – it helped me find the right university': Pharmacy student shares her experience

For many students, Clearing is no longer simply a back-up plan if results don't go as expected. It's an opportunity to take a fresh look at their options, ask questions and choose the university that's the right fit for them.

That's exactly what happened for Hasti Zare, who joined the University of Brighton through Clearing and is now studying for a Master of Pharmacy. Here, she shares how Clearing helped her make a confident decision and why she'd encourage others not to be put off by the process.

What first inspired you to study Pharmacy?

"Pharmacy was always my first choice. I've always been fascinated by how different medications work in the body and how treatments are used to help patients. The course itself never changed – it was the route I took to get there. I wanted to choose a university where I would feel supported and confident in excelling on such a demanding course, which led me to explore pathways like Clearing."

Hasti Zare

How did you end up coming through Clearing, and what was that experience like?

"I came through Clearing after results day. It gave me the chance to speak directly with the university and see if it's the right environment for such a demanding degree. Brighton stood out immediately because the team were friendly and incredibly reassuring, they explained the process clearly and made it manageable. I was interviewed and received an offer within a short time frame which was a relief." 

Were you nervous about using Clearing? What would you say to students who are feeling the same way?

"Clearing can feel overwhelming and be a bit nerve-wracking. But I would say, Clearing is not a setback, it's really an opportunity to find what environment and what course fits you the best."

Looking back, how did going through Clearing shape your university experience?

"I was more intentional with my choice, as I had to actively reach out to the university, ask questions and had the chance to visit the campus at short notice as well. As I mentioned before, it's quite stressful at first but the staff are there to help you find the university that suits you better than you originally planned."

For Hasti, that decision has led to a course that combines hands-on learning with real-world clinical experience, helping prepare her for a future career as a pharmacist.

Why did you choose Brighton over any of the other universities?

"Brighton offered everything I was looking for – a well-established MPharm programme in a vibrant, friendly city that is welcoming and easy to settle into."

What has been the highlight of studying Pharmacy at Brighton so far?

"I love how practical and clinically focused the course is. We're constantly applying what we learn in lectures through labs, OSCEs, clinical workshops and placements, so you can really see how everything fits together. I also find that support is easy to access, and the lecturers genuinely care about your progress."

"Studying pharmacy at Brighton has been challenging in the best way possible and pushed me to grow as a person, so I'm proud of my journey as it led me exactly where I needed to be."

As Hasti prepares for the next stage of her Pharmacy degree, she hopes her experience will reassure other students considering Clearing that it's not about settling for what's available – it's about finding the university that's right for you.

Thinking about university this September? Whether you've changed your mind, are waiting for your results or are exploring your options, there's still time to join the University of Brighton through Clearing. Discover our courses, speak to our friendly Clearing team and find out more at brighton.ac.uk/clearing.