For Rahila Patel, her time on our Accounting and Finance Degree Course, was full of surprises. From the flexible and friendly environment and the inclusion of an employment module to the great links with professionals. Read on to discover more and pick up some of her top tips.
“My experience has been much bigger than I imagined. I’ve met a range of students and highly commendable professionals. I expected a very formal ‘business’ approach but very quickly realised how flexible and relaxed the environment actually is. Another surprise was the breadth of my course. It wasn’t limited to financial and management accounting, and calculations, and there’s a module that prepares you for real life employment.
"It’s also been exciting belonging to the Lancashire School of Business and Enterprise, learning directly from industry professionals with real life experience gained at prestigious firms. We also benefit from the University’s many prominent contacts bringing direct networking opportunities and industry updates.
"In addition to my studies I took part in The LionHeart Challenge, a chance to compete in teams and develop a business plan to promote community action. I won an award from the president of the CIMA for producing the best financial plan.
"I’ve been consistently supported here, especially when I was very unwell during my second year. I also received support from the Students’ Union. Both were essential in helping me get exemplary grades with the hope of graduating with even better ones.
"I’ve built some very good relationships with lecturers, they really get to know you on a one-to-one basis, so you get the guidance you need. The team encourage feedback and adjust their teaching style to suit us."
"My career plans with the support of the University have been very easily pulled together. I am confident that I love accounting and finance and I would like to complete my professional chartered exams and to work for a long-standing firm. I may complete my master’s in Accounting here too so I am able to graduate as ACCA exam complete.
"I’m sure my work experience, during my studies, will mean I’m very employable too. I would like to work for a long-standing firm and aspire to become fully chartered.
"I would advise anyone coming here to take advantage of all the opportunities set out in front of you. That includes guidance from lecturers, as it all comes together to prepare you for life after graduation. My other top tip is to fit in work experience and take advantage of the Careers service.”