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.
The fact that the course had the highest number of ACCA exemptions out of any university really attracted me to it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Be hard working, be ambitious and always learn as much as you can about your chosen field. Knowledge is power.
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.
