Can you please tell me a little bit about yourself?
I am a Postgraduate student in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management MSc. I have an undergraduate degree in Accounts and Costing. At the moment I am doing my internship at NHS at the Guy’s and Saint Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
How did you decide to study at Westminster Business School
Westminster Business School offers students an excellent Supply Chain Management programme, a campus in one of the world’s most dynamic business capitals, and a well-connected career office that has succeeded in placing students in demanding roles even in a difficult economic environment.
Can you please tell us a bit about your placement?
Currently I am a finance intern at NHS at the Guy’s and Saint Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in the Income Treasury and Cashiers Team. My responsibilities include reconciliation of the Trust’s bank accounts, reviewing sales invoice requests using Oracle and working with the credit control team to review debt collection action on customer accounts. The Team manages a large amount of NHS funds and the position requires efficiency and a keen attention to detail.
Can you please tell us about the process of securing a placement/internship during your studies?
The internship process was a great success because of the Postgraduate Programme Coordinator, Hanna Gnanaseharam and all of the members of the Business Experience Team (BET) , who greatly supported me throughout the internship process. I also received superb guidance from the Career Development Center. The Business Experience Team reviewed my CV, guided me through mock interviews and matched my talents and interests to recruiter requirements. It is important to start early and to utilise the benefits provided, to the fullest extent.
Everyone is talking about employability skills what do you think is the best way to increase your employability skills during your academic studies?
Talk to professors, alumni and the career office, and use social media to research the skills currently expected of new graduates in your field. An early start is important, in order to be prepared for opportunities that present themselves.
As a fellow student what would you recommend other students in the Westminster Business School?
Maintain a sharp focus on academics and on gaining and presenting marketable skills, start your dissertation and job search early and network widely. Learn from criticism, persist in your efforts and think positively.
We all know that student life is hard work! How do you manage to balance your studies with all the extra-curricular activities?
Planning, effort and some measure of sacrifice (saying ‘no’ to ‘must-see’ TV for example) is critical to balancing work, academics and family. I find that staying fit also helps increase focus and clears the mind for fresh ideas the following day.
What are the main lessons you have learnt by being so involved during your studies?
The main lesson has been that planning and persistence pay off in the long run. The academic staff are very helpful and students should not hesitate to approach them for advice if needed.
What did you enjoy most about your last job?
I enjoyed the responsibility I was given, the opportunity to learn about the profession as well as the systems software, the collaborative atmosphere and the willingness of the team to invest in talent development. I learned a lot from my colleagues and mentors and I hope to be able to pass that on to others some day.
What is the best piece of advice given to you by a teacher?
Success is 1% inspiration, 89% perseverance and 10% communication. Innovation, effort and communication are all important for success.
What does the future hold for you after graduation? What are your plans?
I hope to find a career in supply chain, procurement or logistics. My internship and my dissertation will provide me with transferrable skills for my career.
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