UNIVERSITY NEWS LAST UPDATED : 23 JANUARY 2014
BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance student, Harneel Paul, is well on her way to success. When she graduates in 2015, her academic knowledge, hard work, determination, and experience will help her to stand out from the crowd.
Harneel is keen to get the most out of her time at university, and whilst undertaking a placement year (working in industry) at Solihull Council this year, she has also secured herself a summer internship at Grant Thornton, giving her two invaluable industry experiences before her final year at university.
Harneel is only at the start of her journey with Solihull Council as a member of the Audit and Governance Services department. Using the academic theory she has learned during her studies, and the industry experience she has gained so far, Harneel has been able to identify her desired career path.
Eager for more experiences in Audit and Governance to support her future career after graduation, Harneel researched additional opportunities, and came across an excellent summer internship opportunity with Grant Thornton, the fifth largest accountancy firm in the UK.
Harneel said: "When applying for industry experience, support your application by providing evidence of academic study, breakdowns of module scores, and university transcripts – if you work hard during these three to four years, you will reap the rewards after. It also shows employers that you are hardworking, and want to progress."
The application progress was rigorous and competitive as Harneel found herself up against several applicants from other universities, but with her passion, commitment, existing knowledge and industry experience she managed to excel. Harneel decided to apply to big firms as she believes that both academic achievement and a portfolio of practical experience is the key to success, especially when competing against a high calibre of students or graduates.
Harneel said: "Get as much experience and industry exposure as you can. It's not just about academia; it's also about experience and application of knowledge, and how you can act in certain situations."
She is keen to encourage others to take full advantage of all the opportunities available, both academically and socially, "Get the right balance of university social life and the academics/deadlines that come with it too."
Harneel is enjoying her time at Solihull Council, and is now looking forward to the next chapter of her early career with the Public Sector Audit Internship at Grant Thornton later this year, before returning to university for her final year.