Arya Sunil studied BSc Accounting and Management and now works as a Recruitment Consultant at Michael Page, a specialist audit recruiter in the City. Arya has kindly given her time to share her story of why she chose Queen Mary and how her degree has helped her so far in her career.
What does your role involve?
My role involves building and growing a client portfolio and maintaining strong client relationships to secure business. I consult and engage with clients on how we can best support their recruitment needs. I work exclusively with firms in the financial services industry including large Investment Banks, Fin-Techs and Asset and Wealth Managers. I also identify and attract potential candidates and provide them with advice on market conditions.
What sparked your interest in your chosen course?
I liked the idea of being able to do a specialised degree whereby some modules are preselected. Therefore, you get a mix of technical accounting modules alongside business modules which cover a wider context of factors that affect a business such as Economics and Corporate Governance.
How did your time and study at Queen Mary help your career and development?
Through the practical skills gained from some modules like delivering presentations and groupwork as well as being on the committee for societies, you develop key skills that will be pivotal to securing a role after graduating.
It is important to build your CV throughout your time at university. For instance, I interned with Lloyds Banking Group in the summer of my second year and it was an invaluable experience which I have been asked about in interviews I've had since. At Queen Mary, you can benefit from Careers Advisors who can help you with anything from applications and interview techniques to seeking advice from lecturers who are experts in their field.
What are some of your fondest memories of your time at Queen Mary? Where was your favourite place on campus?
I was part of many societies during my time at university and, through those, I had some truly unforgettable experiences. For instance, I represented Queen Mary in a Bollywood dancing competition against other universities from around the UK. I also took part in an annual dance show hosted by Kings College, which was open to students from University of London institutions. I was able to meet so many other students from diverse backgrounds and build relationships whilst having fun.
My favourite spot on campus is a bench by the canal. I would go there in between revising in the library or before exams to take a moment to breathe and clear my head!
What are your hopes and plans for your career going forwards?
I hope to start my ACA qualification to become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant soon. I look forward to building on my knowledge of accounting principles and theories gained from my degree and applying it practically.
What would your advice be to students applying to study Accounting and Management at Queen Mary?
Everyone will have their own journey so don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Set yourself goals, write them down and make sure you do everything you can to action them. At times university can be a balancing act so having aims written down will help you focus and keep you motivated. Try to seize every single opportunity and don’t be afraid to push yourself outside of your comfort zone.