The only way to describe my experience so far is incredible - Gemma’s Accounting Story

For me, choosing Accounting and Finance was a ‘non-negotiable’.  Where I was going to study it, that was the big question! As someone who transferred to the University of Chester in the second year, the only way to describe my experience so far is incredible. From the super supportive lecturers to the fabulous friendly students, I was made to feel included from day one!

New beginnings

One of the first things that encouraged me to jump onboard with University of Chester was an Open Day, just like the one you might be attending.  I drove into the city early one Saturday morning and was immediately taken aback with my surroundings.  I parked with ease and looked at the grand business buildings - wow! I had such a warm welcome and I don’t just mean to tea and coffee! I heard some top-notch speeches from lecturers and students both past and present, took a tour around Queen’s Park and chatted to staff and students on a 1 to 1 basis. And that was it, I was sold, this is where I wanted to be.  No other options and top of the list, the University of Chester was the place for me!

Course to Success

Now, as a person who likes puzzles, this course had my name all over it, from fantastic financials to terrific tax, the sense of satisfaction when balancing a sheet is pure dopamine! The knowledge I have gained from each lecture has not only given me an insight on how businesses make (and sometimes lose) money, but also equipped me with the technological expertise to keep up in this rapidly evolving world.

A session that’s forever etched in my brain is one that was just after the Christmas break.  It was financial accounting and we were covering capital gains tax, a puzzle to be solved - FUN! It was fantastic to get back into action after some time away, or it could have been the pizza that the lecturer brought to class for us, not sure which! But I remember both!

Legends aka Lecturers

Lecturers on my course are hands down the most awesome human beings you could ever wish to have by your side throughout such a crucial time in your life, the wealth of knowledge they have is incredible and they are more than happy to share it with you. The lecturers here at Chester Business School are just as invested in your success as you are, they make learning enjoyable.

During the first week, of my first year (technically, second year for everyone else) I thought, what have I done! I knew absolutely nobody, I felt like I was in over my head, and I could have quite easily run for the hills.  But, spoiler alert, I didn’t!  I ran to my PAT, who reassured me that I was absolutely where I was meant to be.  She gave me a solid dose of motivation, introduced me to some fellow students and here am I today, in my final year and totally loving it!

An Abundance of Opportunities

In my tiny twelve months at Chester I have already had the opportunity to participate in numerous exciting activities, events and projects. Whether that be group projects, networking events, internships, entrepreneurial opportunities and study abroad options, there is always something happening.

One of the coolest opportunities I have taken part in so far is the Venture Programme, where I got to develop my business, from an idea, into an actual business. I have a passion for beekeeping, sustainability and producing natural products.  Dedicating time to research the industry gave me the insight I needed to tap into the wants and needs of potential customers.  With three hives in full swing, I will be ready to start honey production in spring 2025. It was great to combine my studies with my personal endeavours.

Also, I can’t forget the Graduation & Beyond Conference of 2024, an event for accounting and finance students to hear from industry professionals and alumni about career opportunities in finance.

What an absolute blast this was, from helping to organise the event, greeting our guests, and having the opportunity to network with the professionals from across the industry, who gave me invaluable advice.  It has undoubtedly empowered me with greater confidence to pursue my chosen career.

To the future – and beyond!

For me, this time next year I will be making my final arrangements on what to wear for graduation, a big decision, and something I never thought I’d be doing!

However, as I look ahead, and start to envision exactly where I want to be, all I see is spreadsheets: income statements, cash flow statements and balance sheets!  What an absolute dream, I think I should become an accountant! Chartered would be good, with the letters ACA after my name.

In a nutshell

Looking back on my journey so far, I can confidently say that my time at the Chester Business School has hands down exceeded all my expectations. The people I have met, the content I have covered, the opportunities I have been given have made it a truly special journey.

I’m incredibly proud to be part of this University, and who knows, I have enjoyed it so much that one day in the future, I may even come back to do my Masters’.

Want to find out more?

Please visit the webpages for the course if you want to find out more about our Accounting and Finance BSc degree here at Chester. You can also book onto an Open Day to visit us, have a look around Queens Park, and talk to staff and current students.