The maximum exemptions available for a Chartered Accountancy qualification post-degree is proof of the quality of teaching

Before starting my course, I had a clear career goal in mind

I was confident in the fact I wished to do my Chartered qualification in Accountancy. However after seeing the more holistic overview of modules available in the Accounting and Financial Management course at the University of Sheffield, it convinced me to study at University rather than through a degree apprenticeship.

The Triple Crown accreditation that the Management School has attained and the maximum exemptions available for a Chartered Accountancy qualification post-degree is proof of the quality of teaching. Furthermore, the Management School having its own employability team stood out from other universities. I also wanted to use Bloomberg terminals as part of my degree which Sheffield can offer in its Trading Room.

There are plenty of ways to make friends at university

I started university in September 2020, so meeting new people was harder than it usually is due to Covid restrictions. However, organising course meet-ups, playing 5-aside football and joining the rugby team ensured this wasn’t an issue. In addition, I have recently become a student ambassador this academic year and I am enjoying the role - I wish I applied in previous years!

One of the highlights of my time at university has been watching the Varsity Ice Hockey final at the Utilita Arena between Uni of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam - it’s great we have the opportunities to do these sporting events through the University.

The Employability Hub helped me get my CV up to scratch

I knew that I wished to undertake a placement year prior to starting university, and my main concern was getting my CV up to scratch and finding the right opportunities. The Management School's Employability Hub helped me with my CV and organised a 1-to-1 call to give me tips for cover letters and assessment days.

I undertook my placement year with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

I undertook my placement year in the Capital Finance team with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (STH). While I applied to many roles of my own volition, the role I got was advertised in a University email which you can subscribe to when you notify the Management School you would like to do a placement year. I didn’t secure my placement until April and therefore I was concerned about securing accommodation as it was quite late notice. However, being a student city, I found a studio flat in the city centre which was perfect for a year working before moving back in with mates for my final year.

Through my placement, I gained the confidence and the experience to talk about my field of study. This was the main difference I noticed comparing my performance in assessment centres for placement positions and graduate roles. I believe my placement year experience greatly aided me in already securing an Accounting graduate role this early on.

I strongly recommend doing a placement year

I strongly recommend doing a placement year - it gives you great experiences and opportunities and the University provides you with the support you need.

On the whole, I settled back into university study after my placement quickly

In the core modules which span all three years of study such as Financial Accounting and Management Accounting I had to refresh my memory by looking back at my revision notes. On the whole I settled back in really quickly. The University offered loads of seminars and workshop events to help you settle back in and meet people following a year out.

I have developed my Excel skills which will help in the future

I am most proud of my improvement in Excel skills. Through modules requiring Excel at university and through using it every day while on my placement year I now have the skill to use it to my advantage.

My plans for the future

I have secured a 3 year graduate scheme role at PKF Francis Clark Accountants and Business advisers in a Business Advisory role. I will be undertaking my ACA exams (ICAEW) through this scheme.