Qiao Chuqi (MSc Money, Banking and Finance)
Qiao Chuqi
Study abroad consultant
MSc Money, Banking and Finance
Chuqi completed a Masters degree from the School of Economics. Since graduating, she has worked as a strategic consultant for global businesses and now has a career in study abroad consultancy, helping students plan and achieve their education plans.
Why did you choose to study Economics at the University of Sheffield?
I chose the University of Sheffield because of its century-old reputation as a prestigious institution, its globally recognized research achievements, and the presence of Nobel laureates, all of which have filled me with expectations for the University of Sheffield. My undergraduate degree is in finance, so I hoped to establish a solid foundation in economics, which is why I chose the School of Economics. The school regularly holds research seminars, which aligned with my aspirations. I looked forward to gaining deeper insights into this field through interactions with academic professionals. Additionally, the language and career support provided by the University of Sheffield offered excellent guidance for international students.
What was your favourite part of your student journey in Sheffield?
I particularly enjoyed participating in student club activities and making use of the school's sports facilities. I joined both the volleyball and judo clubs. Engaging in these activities not only helped me stay fit but also allowed me to forge new friendships. The club activities made me feel less lonely while studying in the UK. On weekends, we loved hiking in the Peak District, exploring every inch of grassland, touching every stone, and experiencing the power of nature. It was during this time that I met my boyfriend, now husband. Therefore, Sheffield has left a profound impression on me.
What do you do now, and how has your degree helped your career choice?
My current job is in the field of education and career planning, assisting students in achieving their goals of studying abroad. Previously, I worked at a consulting firm in Shanghai, where I was responsible for strategic consulting projects with global clients, including Johnson & Johnson, Coca-Cola, IBM, and others. In this role, I developed a profound understanding of business and gained extensive experience working with multinational corporations.
My study experience in Sheffield provided me with deeper insights into studying abroad and life in the UK. For example, I can explain to students what courses are offered in the School of Economics and which ones are beneficial for their future careers. Based on these experiences, I decided to offer comprehensive study abroad consultancy services, helping students analyse their university and major choices from an employment perspective to ensure their decisions align with their future career paths.
Any tips for graduates looking for a job?
When looking for a job, it's important to first consider your personality. If you're outgoing, you may not be well-suited for an office job. Conversely, if you're naturally meticulous, you're more likely to excel in roles that require careful attention to detail. Therefore, when searching for employment, it's crucial to match your personality with the profession.
In considering personality, hobbies and interests should also be taken into account. After all, being interested in something is key to performing well in a job. For recent graduates, it's advisable to aim for reputable companies where they can learn systematic work and management skills, and also have more career options in the future. Good jobs are hard to come by, so it's important to stay calm, take things slowly, and persistently strive for success, because opportunities are always reserved for those who are prepared.
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