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The University of Southampton
EconomicsPart of Economic, Social and Political ScienceOur alumni

Aleksandra Zak BSc Economics and Finance 2019

Aleksandra Zak's Photo

Southampton equipped me with the economics knowledge I needed to be successful in my current role. Learning how to use the Bloomberg Terminals in the tutorials definitely helped me in the recruitment process at Bloomberg

Why did you choose to come and study at Southampton?

I chose Southampton because of its great reputation. As a member of prestigious Russell Group Southampton provided me with outstanding teaching personnel and facilities such as Bloomberg Terminal which enabled me to succeed in my current role.

What were your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences)?

My Southampton highlight was taking part in charity event LOST organised by RAG. We were taken 99 miles away from Southampton and without using any money we had to go back to Southampton completing challenges and raising money for a charity along the way. Definitely something everyone should try!

What other activities did you take advantage of while at University?

I took advantage of many opportunities Southampton presented to me. I took part in summer school at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics where I got an insight into Chinese economy. I also did Erasmus Exchange in Germany, where I could get to know German higher education system. Also, being part of Business Society Committee for 2 years gave me the opportunity to develop soft skills required by employers. Throughout my degree I also worked part-time at Students’ Union what enabled me to learn time management skills and make great friends.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoyed how Economics course at Southampton combined theory with practice by e.g. offering Economics with Experiments module. I could also pick from a wide range of optional modules and pursue German Language alongside with maths-based economics modules

What have been the highlights of your career to date?

In my previous role as an Analyst at Goldman Sachs I had an opportunity to attend training at GS headquarter in New York. It gave me the opportunity to broaden my financial knowledge, meet analysts from different offices and departments as well as explore New York in my free time!

How did your time at Southampton help you to grow as a person and help you get to where you are now?

Southampton equipped me with the economics knowledge I needed to be successful in my current role. Learning how to use the Bloomberg Terminals in the tutorials definitely helped me in the recruitment process at Bloomberg. I also got a chance to develop teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills by taking part in Business Innovation Programme.

What advice would you give to a student starting their degree at Southampton?

Get involved in as many activities and societies as you can! Try different things and find what you really like. Also get involved in Students’ Union activities. All of these will help you to make friends and discover new opportunities.

What tips would you give to current students looking to start a career in your sector?

Do your research and try to find out what you really want to do. Read carefully job descriptions and make sure it is something what you see yourself in. And don’t get discouraged by long application process and rejections. I got rejected when I first applied to Bloomberg and was successful in my second attempt.

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