1. A brief overview of my background
Coming from a lower socio-economic background, I was the first in my family to attend university, so pursuing higher education and a professional career was something I had to figure out largely on my own.
I studied A-level Mathematics, Business, and Accounting, which gave me a strong and well-rounded foundation. At one stage, I was even considering very different paths such as Medicine and Electrical Engineering.
During my gap year, I took the time to reflect on what I genuinely enjoyed and where my strengths were. I realised I had always been drawn to business and naturally performed well in it. That is what led me to specialise in Accounting, as I see it as the backbone of every business.

2. Why I chose BSc Accounting with IPE at The University of Manchester
Being from Manchester, I wanted to stay local while still attending a highly reputable university. Alliance Manchester Business School stood out immediately.
I had heard great things about the course, the facilities, and the student experience. I also liked the idea of being part of such a large and diverse student population, where you are constantly surrounded by ambitious and driven people.
Career prospects were also a big factor for me. The University of Manchester is consistently one of the most targeted universities by leading graduate employers in the UK, which gave me confidence in the opportunities ahead. The structure of the course, along with the option of a placement year, made it the right choice for me.

3. Memorable experiences
One of the most meaningful parts of my university experience was becoming a student ambassador. I really enjoyed speaking to prospective students, sharing my journey, and giving back to the university.
A key highlight was representing the university on a panel at the ICAEW headquarters in London. That experience made me reflect on how powerful it is to share your story and how your journey can positively influence others. It reinforced a mindset I still carry with me today. If I can do it, why can’t you?
I also got involved in different social societies and built strong friendships with people from a wide range of courses. There really is something for everyone.

4. My career development
In my first year, I remember hearing about graduate schemes but not fully understanding how to access them. I was working part-time and often wondered where to even begin.
Things changed when I came across the Global Graduates programme through a banner in the Alliance building. That one moment made a big difference. Through the programme, I connected with alumni across different industries and gained real insight into their career journeys.
From that point, I became much more proactive. I started networking, researching opportunities, and putting myself out there. This led me to secure an internship in Corporate Banking at Lloyds Banking Group. Shortly after, I completed a placement year in Audit at Grant Thornton.
I realised that I was more drawn to finance, and I now work at NatWest Group as a Corporate and Commercial Banking Graduate in Manchester. Looking back, everything I did during university played a part in getting me to where I am today.

5. How the course supported my career development
The course gave me a strong foundation in accounting and finance while also developing important skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
One of the biggest advantages of the programme is the professional exemptions it offers. Through the BSc Accounting with IPE, I gained exemptions from several exams across qualifications such as ACA, CIMA, and ACCA. This provides a significant head start towards becoming a qualified accountant.
Alongside this, the course structure and opportunities such as placements allowed me to build practical experience during my studies.

6. Advice to future applicants
My biggest piece of advice would be to be proactive and take initiative from early on.
At the start of university, I had a more reactive mindset and assumed opportunities would come naturally over time.
Speak to people, attend events, ask questions, and make the most of your network. For me, something as simple as noticing a banner led to an opportunity that shaped my career direction. Your next opportunity could be just one conversation or one decision away…

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