What course did you study?

I graduated from Queen's Business School in 2018 with a BSc Economics with Finance.

 

Why did you choose this course? 

I decided to choose the BSc Economics with Finance because it offers the perfect blend between microeconomics, macroeconomics, and finance. This combination provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of broader market dynamics and the crucial role of financial systems in shaping economic outcomes.

Studying this course would equip me with a well-rounded perspective, allowing me to navigate the complexities of the global economy and contribute meaningfully to financial decision-making processes.

 

What has your career path been since graduation? 

After my undergraduate degree at Queen's Business School, I undertook an MSc programme in Finance. Once I completed my Master's degree, I started a Graduate Scheme at Lloyds Banking Group. 

After completing the Graduate Programme, I moved on to working at SMBC in London, which is a Japanese Bank, where I still work today.

 

How did your degree prepare you for your current job role?  

My degree has equipped me with the foundational knowledge and experience to learn many concepts and theories very quickly. For instance, I get to wear my Economist hat when I am presenting any macroeconomic related topics and how they can feed through to and impact the financial side for clients which is where I can swap to my Finance hat. 

Furthermore, the diverse elements of my degree has enabled me to adapt and be versatile in the ever-changing market environment. 

 

What were your favourite courses, modules or educational takeaways from your time at Queen's and why were they impactful?  

My favourite modules were the ones that provided more practical experiences. Understandably, you needed the theoretical courses to prepare you for the practical ones. Yet, once you get to the stage where you are able to practice the theory that you have learnt, in modules such as Financial Decision Making or Corporate Finance and Derivatives, is where the fun really starts because you get to see how all the classroom knowledge can be applied in the real-world. 

 

Did you study abroad?

Yes, I studied abroad at the University of Alberta, Canada. The study abroad experience was definitely one of the best highlights of my undergraduate experience.

I learnt a vast amount and made so many friends thanks to this opportunity. The study abroad experience is very unique because you can immerse yourself into a different culture and get to study modules that are not involved in your course.

For example, I was able to study a course in International Business Law, as well as the usual Economics and Finance modules, which has been quite helpful in many of my previous and current role. Overall, I had so much fun, learnt a lot, made many friends, and got the chance to travel around many parts of Canada and the USA. 

 

Did you do any extra-curricular activities whilst at Queen’s? How did this help you to advance personally and professionally?    

I started the Economics Football Team during my second year at Queen's. Personally, I am a huge football fan, I love playing and watching football, so I gathered some course mates to initially start the team and eventually we got a full team together. We played against other Subject teams and Club/Society teams in the Belfast student league.

This was a particularly enjoyable element during my time at University because you get to spend time and have fun with your course mates outside of the academic setting. From this, we all became closer and supported each other during the exam times. I still play football regularly now with some QBS alumni since some of us moved to London for work. 

Additionally, I was also part of the Queen's Student Managed Fund, where I was the Co-Head of Industrials Sector. In this role I co-supervised a team of 15 analysts through the process of equity research and supported the production of CFA formatted equity reports. This role certainly gave me an immersive experience into Equity Research and Portfolio Management. 

Overall, these activities and hobbies have helped me to navigate my physical and mental health as well as helped me obtain soft and technical skills for the finance sector. 

 

What advice do you have for someone considering studying at Queen’s Business School?   

Firstly, try everything at least once that is offered at Queen's University (be it societies, language courses, or trips abroad) - the worst that can happen is that you may not enjoy it, but the best that can happen is that you have found a new joy and meet new friends. 

 

What career advice would you give someone looking to go down a similar career path as you?    

Push yourself out of your comfort zone because you will not learn as much or as fast if you are constantly in the same environment. Do not be afraid to make mistakes and always take accountability - it is the best way to learn. 

 

What has been your career highlight so far?  

I do feel extremely grateful and privileged to be in my current role position. One of my career highlights is that now I can mentor students from disadvantaged backgrounds and offer them advice and insights on how to get into top universities and/or how to enter into the banking industry.

So far, the best highlight has been talking through my career journey to young students and also seeing my mentees getting offers from top universities and job offers from top banks.

 

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