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Azita Jannati

Azita Jannati, BA Accounting and Finance

Financial Controller, iD Experiential

BA Accounting and Finance, 2007


What made you choose Middlesex University?

First of all, the course had the highest number of ACCA exemptions out of all UK universities. The university also has a good reputation and is London-based, so was local. When I came to the Open Day, all the staff were so helpful and friendly which confirmed my desire to study at Middlesex.

What attracted you to your course and made you apply?

The fact that the course had the highest number of ACCA exemptions out of any university really attracted me to it.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy most?

Taxation, company law and financial reporting. I can honestly say though that the whole course was absolutely brilliant. I had really good professors and thoroughly enjoyed my three years studying at Middlesex.

What is your fondest memory of life at Middlesex?

All the fun I had! I think we all worked hard though and the facilities were brilliant, the staff approachable and the lecturers were always available. I also really liked the fact the library was open at weekends.

What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?

Listen to your lecturers, enjoy yourself and work hard! I think the standard of education is really high and while you get a lot of help and support, you also really need to apply yourself and work hard.

How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?

The number of ACCA exemptions and the fact I had my degree really opened the door to my current career. Without it, I couldn't have got full ACCA accreditation.

What made you choose the industry you work in and what are its pros and cons?

I think there are a number of great opportunities working in accounting and finance. This is one of the main pros, as is the fact there are always jobs in the area regardless of the economic climate. I think probably the main cons are the fact it is still a very male-orientated environment, although this is improving, and the fact it is competitive.

How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?

I had a 1st class degree which made it much easier when I approached agencies for work. Initially I got a short-term contract for three months from the October of the year I graduated. Then in the January of the following year, I got my first full time job.

What has been your defining career break or highlight to date?

I think the fact I graduated with 1st class honours, achieved really high grades in my accountancy exams and am now Finance Controller of a mid-sized UK PR company. When I first moved here from Iran I wasn't fluent in English so I am really proud of all I have achieved.

What does the future hold for you?

In the medium term, I'd like to become a Finance Director. Longer term, I'd like to be CEO of a FTSE 100 company. I would also like to study for an MBA in future.

What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?

Be hard working, be ambitious and always learn as much as you can about your chosen field. Knowledge is power.

What one piece of advice would you give to the 17/18 year old you?

Don't treat university just as fun – yes, you should have fun but you also need to work hard. The more you put in, the more you get out. Additionally, make sure that you are interested in what you are studying.

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