Anushan

What do you like about your course and why?

I really enjoy the balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application in my course. The modules are designed to give a strong foundation in both accounting principles and financial analysis, which I find intellectually stimulating and relevant to real-world scenarios. I also appreciate how the course incorporates tools like Excel and data analysis techniques that are widely used in the industry. 

Overall, the course has helped me develop a solid skill set and a clear understanding of the financial world, which I feel confident applying in my future career.

What do you enjoy most about Surrey?

What I enjoy most about Surrey is the vibrant campus life and the strong sense of community among students. There’s always something going on, whether it's events organised by the Students’ Union, cultural celebrations, or just relaxing by the lake with friends. I’ve also really enjoyed being part of student societies such as volleyball and tsoc, which have helped me connect with others who share similar interests and develop skills outside of my academic studies. 

The campus itself is beautiful and well-equipped, making it a great environment to both study and unwind.

Tell us about your placement

I completed a finance intern placement at UVEX Safety UK based in Farnham, this opportunity allowed me to gain exposure to real-world accounting and perform a variety of tasks such as month-end journaling, margin analysis and audit reporting. I was able to apply concepts from my course in a practical setting, which really deepened my understanding of corporate finance and accounting procedures. 

Overall this boosted my confidence and helped me develop key skills like attention to detail and time management. The placement also gave me insight into working in a professional environment and clarified my career interests within the finance sector.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

Once I graduate I would like to work in an accounting firm and study towards my ACA qualification to progress further into the world of accountancy and seek more senior roles.

What's your advice to new students?

I would advise students thinking of studying BSc Accounting and Finance to make the most of every opportunity the course and university offer. The content can be challenging at times, but staying organised and engaging with the material consistently really helps. 

I’d also highly recommend doing a placement year if possible. My 12-month placement gave me practical experience that brought my studies to life and made me more confident about my future career path. Finally, take advantage of the support available, from lecturers to career services, and get involved in societies to build a well-rounded university experience.