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Sarah Iman

Sarah ImanAudit Assistant, Financial Services, Deloitte

BA Accounting and Finance, 2013


What made you choose Middlesex University?

Middlesex University has been a well-known university for many years. The location was excellent too and it was very close to home which meant that I would not waste time travelling. It also offered the course which I wanted to study.

Furthermore, my dad went there years ago and had a wonderful experience. He has done really well in his career so I decided to take a leaf out of his book.

What attracted you to your course and made you apply?

Accounting is a very reputable profession and has played a vital role in the business world.  I've always been interested in a career in accounting so studying accounting and finance at university was a stepping stone in my career.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy most?

The way the modules were covered, taught and presented was excellent. The lecturers and seminar tutors really helped me gain a better understanding of each module.

What did you find the Hendon campus like?

Hendon is located in a very busy place with all facilities nearby, which provides students with the opportunity to study and enjoy at the same time. The atmosphere and the environment were really welcoming so I really felt at home. Also, I'm from Hendon myself so travelling to university was very convenient.

What is your fondest memory of life at Middlesex?

There were many memorable events in my three years at Middlesex, however, obtaining my first class degree is just remarkable and is something I will be proud of for the rest of my life!

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

The course is excellent and very well taught! Make sure you take advantage of the facilities and the highly skilled and experienced lecturers to ensure you gain the necessary knowledge and can excel in your exams.

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

My accounting and finance course at Middlesex equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills which enabled me to get a placement at the world's number one 'audit and accountancy' firm, Deloitte.

Now that you're a trainee auditor at Deloitte, what is the career path ahead of you?

My priority is to become an ACA Qualified Chartered Accountant and develop technical and professional skills through my training contract so that I can provide an excellent service to my clients. I then intend to progress to a managerial role in my firm.

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

Becoming a qualified chartered accountant and specialising in the financial services industry is a big achievement as I believe this sector is playing a vital role in the current world economy and I could contribute significantly in providing excellent financial service to worldwide clients.

Once you qualify the opportunities are endless, however, this path brings lot of challenges as you are working full time and preparing for your exams as well.

How did you go about applying for the position?

Working for one of big four audit firms is most people's goal as accountants. I did my research on all four of them and chose PWC and Deloitte as my target workplaces. Fortunately, I was called for interview from both of them and I did really well in interviews and ultimately chose Deloitte as my preferable firm. This was for many reasons, but the friendly environment was one of them.

What are the top three tips you would give to current students and recent graduates who are looking for a similar career to yourself?

Be prepared to work hard.

Have your goals set out - what you aim to achieve after university, which career path you wish to pursue.

Enjoy what you do and you will be the best at it.

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

Never give up. That is my main advice, you are just entering university and there are going to be setbacks, you might not pass all of your exams or get what you want straight away, but never give up and keep trying.

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