Sheffield as a city feels like home to me

A masters degree will open doors

I chose to do my masters in the UK because of many convincing reasons. Primarily, the UK is home to world-renowned universities, especially in the field of finance. The flexibility to work part-time while studying and the possibility of financial aid are added benefits. A master’s degree in finance from the UK would open doors to a wide range of opportunities. Additionally, I was thrilled at the thought of indulging myself in the diverse cultural tapestry that the UK offers which would also expose me to global perspectives and help me grow into a cultivated global citizen. Lastly, skills learned from a university in the UK would help me gain a competitive advantage, and as it is home to top-class finance institutes, it would help secure constant growth in organisations as well.

Sheffield is a student-friendly city

I chose to study MSc Accounting, Governance & Financial Management at Sheffield because of the very relevant industry-focused curriculum which includes real-world case studies and hands-on projects that could help link theory and practice. Sheffield city is close to vital financial hubs like London, opening several potential opportunities for graduates. Overall as a city, I like the amalgamation of Sheffield’s many green spaces and both old and new architecture. The city exhibits both local and international culture, and is friendly, with comparatively affordable living costs, a student-friendly city.

The student community is involved in social events

Mainly because Sheffield University Management School is a Triple Crown accredited by AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB proposing the reputable quality of the programmes SUMS offers. The Employability Hub is an extremely important part of the School that drove me towards SUMS, from career coaching to placement events they cover it all. I also value the part-time opportunities that SUMS provides and their constant efforts to involve the student community with social events.

A passion for learning

I graduated from FLAME University, Pune, India in 2022 with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (Major in Finance and Minor in Economics), and worked as a Data Mining Analyst, and later worked as an Equity Research Intern. After which, I finished a distance-learning year-long Postgraduate Diploma in Management (2022-2023) from the Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad, India, and in the meantime, I also interned as a content inspector with a newspaper publishing company.

Choosing to study a masters

I chose to pursue a masters degree because I want to specialise in the field of finance and stay relevant with my skills in the extremely competitive job market. I intend to evolve my critical and analytical skills and use this opportunity of studying masters to build networks and potentially collaborate with other intellects in the future.

Overcoming any concerns

I did, to begin with, I was concerned with the intense syllabus and period of the program, and I had concerns about managing my time. Secondly, I felt very overwhelmed settling into the new study environment. I slowly overcame this by attending orientation and social events that both the Management School and the University had organised, there I got a chance to meet other students and share our challenges and discuss how we could overcome those together. I am very grateful for the constant support by the University, I have had no issues reaching out to any staff or faculty, they are all very kind and supportive and are always ready to help. There are services to help enhance study skills, many workshops one could sign up for, and one-on-one tutoring.

Real-time case studies 

The highlight of my course so far would be the opportunity to discuss real-time case studies and real-world financial projects with peers and professors and gain diverse insights into it.

A city that feels like home

Sheffield as a city feels like home to me. My favourite thing about it is how green and welcoming it is. The city is historically and culturally rich, and the locals are more than happy to talk to you about it. I have come across so many warm and kind people, I feel more at home every day.

Adapting well to life in the UK

I have adapted to university life in the UK quite well. I made sure I attended sports/society fairs, and social events like the International Students’ Meets, and attended several taster sessions from various societies. I made friends with similar interests, it was not very difficult, it did get overwhelming but everybody has been very nice. I like to go hiking in the Peak Districts, I enjoy visiting the museums in the city, there are so many cuisines to try at the several restaurants in the city centre. I like to go to the movies, I have seen a few at the Students’ Union too. 

Improving my critical thinking skills

I have sharpened my ability to analyse and evaluate financial statements and company performance and give relevant recommendations. I have enhanced my capability of critical thinking, and my communication skills. I believe these skills are vital for roles in the financial sector and will help me address issues in the industry.

Volunteering in the community

Yes, I have, I am a volunteer representative at the Students’ Union’s Raising & Giving. I also volunteer at the Sheffield Museums and as a Sales Representative at Oxfam. In totality, my roles at various charities have helped me enhance my communication skills and keep me involved with both the local community in Sheffield and students from around the world. At Oxfam, I am mostly surrounded by books. It's amazing to gain insight from customers on their best picks and I work at the till so I get to work with handling money. I am a member of the Indian society, and on most social events we come together to celebrate festivities and meet one another. I also enjoy participating in sessions held by the Ceilidh and Zumba societies.

After graduation plans

After I graduate, I hope to pursue a career in the financial sector. I look forward to applying my understanding in the areas of my interest like portfolio management, financial analysis, and investment analysis. I aim to work for a financial or investment firm and develop my expertise.

Prepared for a career in industry

Studying for this master’s will help my career by equipping me with the required knowledge and skills for the financial sector. I will have enhanced my analytical skills which will help me make informed financial decisions. With the university’s vast alumni network, interactions with faculty, and the support of the Employability hub, I am confident about gaining insights and trends about the opportunities in the field.

Engage in the learning

I would advise them to research the specifics of the program that they are most interested in. There are areas such as corporate finance, portfolio management, management accounting, and financial statement analysis. It is very important to ensure that the modules you choose align with your interests. Also, take the opportunity to access career services and alumni networks. Mainly, engage in the learning - both inside and outside the classroom, and delve into discussions with your peers and professors.