Ayesha Hatteea BSc Accounting and Finance

Graduated 2016

I chose the University of Southampton because of its reputation, being part of the Russell Group. Moreover, its location was ideal for me. It is a charming campus-based university with lots of green space and near the sea, which was great as I enjoy nautical sports. It allowed me to have a certain balance as it had the advantage of being close to the city so you could always have something to do and have a good social life. At the same time it was peaceful enough to be able to study.

I love that the University offers these great work experiences to the students, helping us to boost our CV and enhance our personalities.

Throughout my time here, I undertook the Business School Buddy Scheme and the Student Consultancy Programme. As a buddy, I felt that I was making a difference to new undergraduates by supporting them and helping them settle. It allowed me to develop my leadership, communication and project-management skills, which will be highly valuable when applying for jobs. The Student Consultancy is a fantastic opportunity with a training provided by IBM. It gives a real taste of consultancy and the working world. It has given me teamwork skills, client relationships, time management and communication skills.

The resources available are useful; from the careers office and workshops helping students with all the steps of a job application to events organised by the University such as the careers fair or distinguished lecturers talks. These were great networking opportunities. I like trying out new things so I joined different societies such as the entrepreneurial society, cultural societies or the women rugby team.

What I enjoyed the most in my degree was that throughout my course, I got the confirmation that I chose a field of study I am passionate about.

Southampton is a great place to start your university life. It has really everything for everyone. The University and Southampton have plenty of opportunities to develop academic and career ambitions and concurrently offer a wide range of facilities to nurture your hobbies. Moreover, for me it really feels like a home away from home because you are never alone, there is always someone you can go to.