As my fourth year of studying BSc (Hons) Accounting in The University of Manchester is coming up, I have had time to reflect on the version of myself who was about to start the university journey like you. Here are some things that I wish I had known before my undergraduate journey began:

1. University is not just about exams.

When I arrived, I thought academic success was the only thing that mattered, but university life is a lot broader than that. Over time, I discovered that getting involved in activities outside the lecture hall — from joining clubs to volunteering and participating in events — was just as important. These experiences allowed me to grow personally, build self-confidence, and develop skills like communication and leadership that are essential for life after graduation. If I’d realised this sooner, I would have jumped into these opportunities earlier instead of just focusing on exams.

2. Be open to everyone.

One of the best things about studying at The University of Manchester is the incredibly diverse student community. I have seen how much I have gained from simply chatting with people from different backgrounds. Whether it’s learning about a new culture over lunch, discussing a business issue in a seminar, or hearing different perspectives in group projects, every interaction has broadened my horizons. In Accounting, understanding different cultural and economic contexts is vital, and you start building that understanding here. You don’t have to be close friends with everyone, but showing respect and being open to learning from others makes a world of difference.

3. It’s okay to not have all the answers to everything.

When I started, I felt pressured to decide on a specific career path — audit, tax, consulting, or finance — almost immediately. But university is the perfect place to explore. By joining societies, applying for internships, and simply chatting with classmates and professors, I realised there are so many paths open to me. For example, I did a Risk placement as a modelling analyst, working on data analysis and coding, and it turned out to be an area I genuinely enjoy. That experience showed me that even if you start with one goal, it’s okay to shift as you learn more about yourself and what excites you.

4. You will not be alone.

One of the greatest strengths of the University of Manchester is the vast support network available to students. From academic advisors who can guide you through course choices to mental health services that help with wellbeing, there’s always someone willing to lend a hand. Even your fellow students and peer mentors are there to share their experiences and advice. If I’d known about all the support available, I would have felt a lot more comfortable asking for help — it would have saved me a lot of stress in those first months.

5. Money disappears faster than you think.

Living independently means managing your own budget, and costs can add up fast: rent, groceries, socialising, travel, and textbooks can quickly drain your funds. I wish I’d learned earlier how to track my spending using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to stay on top of things. Budgeting isn’t just about saving money; it’s about giving yourself peace of mind and making sure you can enjoy your time at university without constantly worrying about finances.

Looking back, university has been about so much more than just studying. It’s been a journey of discovering who I am, meeting amazing people, and growing in ways I never expected. Don’t be afraid — one day, you’ll look back and realise how far you’ve come. Make the most of every opportunity — you’ve got this!

Written by Zixuan, a current BSc Accounting student at AMBS

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