Nirav Tanna
Course: BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
Year of Study: 3rd Year
Nationality: Indian
Why did you choose BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance at the University of Liverpool?
I chose to study BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance because of the number of exemptions this program gives me from professional accountancy examinations from institutes like ICAEW, ICAS, CIMA, CIPFA and ACCA. University of Liverpool is the only University in the country that gives its students so many exemptions. This leaves Accounting and Finance students with many more options for their career. The Management School also has very good relationships with top employers in the industry, including all of the Big 4 Financial Services firms. Apart from excellent career opportunities, the lecturers on the course go above and beyond to ensure that students’ progress and become the best version of themselves over the three years of the course. This course also offers a ‘Year in Industry’ option for those who would like to spend a year working at a firm in the industry before coming back to University to complete their final year.
What have you enjoyed most about the programme so far?
The most enjoyable experience of this program is when we have the opportunity to meet with employers who come in to spend time with us, and sometimes give us guest lectures. This really opened us up to the sheer breadth of the industry, and helped us network. This also taught us what kind of skills employers look for when they recruit graduates. Last year, the course arranged mock interviews for students with employers around the city. That was my most enjoyable experience because it gave me a taste of what I would face when I apply for internships and graduate jobs.
Are you involved in any clubs or societies? How do they add to your overall university experience and what skills can you gain?
Immediately after joining University, I joined the Enactus society and took on a role to lead a social project based in Vietnam. This was an amazing experience because I had the opportunity to lead my own team and have interactions with an international organisation. I also made a lot of new friends and met many like-minded people through all the events that Enactus held during the year. I enjoyed working with Enactus a lot, and took on the role of ‘President’ of the society. This added to my university experience because it gave me the opportunity to grow holistically, and not just academically. I developed many skills from leadership, to time management, from organisational skills to conflict resolution. All these skills are desired by employers around the world.
What do you like most about the city of Liverpool and why?
Liverpool is a student city! Everything that a student might need is here. Be it in arts or music or history or sports, Liverpool has a place for everyone. That is what drew me to the city. The people of the city are its best asset. They are the friendliest and welcoming people I have ever met. You will see students from hundreds of nationalities here, and learn a lot about different cultures. The city also hosts many events during the year aimed specifically towards students, which can be academic or for leisure.
What are your plans after graduation?
In September 2017, I will be commencing a one-year Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance at the London School of Economics and Political Science. The wide breadth of experience and knowledge that the University of Liverpool has given me enabled me to secure a place in a great Master’s course. University of Liverpool’s Russell Group brand and sterling reputation has helped me open many doors in my journey to start my professional career.