Tell us about your career journey since you graduated…
I started my graduate job in July 2018, straight after finishing university. In the 6 months I have been at work, I have learnt a lot about the industry, and I am continuing to learn more every day! I have been able to work with clients whilst out on audits and also learn a lot about accounts preparations whilst at the office. I am currently studying towards gaining my ACA Chartered Accountants qualification and have also recently become Xero certified.
What does an average day at work involve for you?
I will talk to the manager of the client I am working on when I arrive in the office, and then work through an accounts preparation for the client. This involves different sections such as fixed assets, debtors and creditors, bank and profit & loss analysis, to name a few. Once the file is complete, any queries will go the client and the file will be sent to the manager for review. I will then clear any queries and review points before sending draft accounts to the client. I also am involved in visiting clients on audits at times.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
Having only been in my job for 6 months, I would say that so far, the highlight of my career has been being exposed to the industry and constantly learning new things. I have learnt so much in such a short space of time and still am learning more and more every day. I really enjoy working for my company and have so far met some lovely colleagues. I am excited to start college and start studying towards my ACA qualification and being exposed to exciting opportunities in the future.
How would you say Brunel helped you to get where you are today?
Throughout my final year at Brunel, I received a lot of support from Raj Sidhu from the Professional Development Centre. He helped me with covering letters, CVs and most importantly interview techniques. He gave me a lot of confidence going into my interview and I was able to apply all of the techniques he shared with me in my interview.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
I have always liked maths from a young age, and knew I wanted to complete a degree in the subject. When I came to Brunel for the first time, I loved it! I loved that it was an on-campus uni - everything I could possibly need was right there! Everyone was so friendly and it was clear there would be plenty of opportunities available. I would definitely recommend Brunel to anyone wishing to go to university.
What is your best memory of studying here?
Although I was sad that my time at university was over, my graduation was my happiest and proudest moment of university. Knowing how hard I had worked over the last three years. Wearing the gown and holding my certificate filled me with pride! I also thoroughly enjoyed working on my dissertation, the computer aided assessment of financial mathematics. This was also another very proud moment when I completed it.
If you could give one piece of advice to new students, what would that be?
Enjoy university! Believe me, it goes so quickly so really make the most of everything! Make the most of lectures, your friends, your lecturers and take every opportunity that you can! I would also advise staying on top of all of your work. There will be times when it is tough, particularly in your final year, but by staying on top of everything and sticking to deadlines, you will minimise any stress and ensure you still have time to enjoy yourself.
What would be your top tip or advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey?
Take every opportunity that comes your way! I am still in the very early stages of my career, but I know I will be taking any opportunity that gets given to me so that I can progress through my career. I would also advise applying for graduate jobs as early as possible, so that you can relax knowing once you have finished university there is a job waiting for you. This also means you can focus on your final year exams and dissertation without the worry of what you will do after university.
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