Alex Bedwell

Business and organisations are affected by everything that happens, from natural disasters to political elections. Studying business gives you the tools to understand these connections and their impact on the world around us. You’ll appreciate the key implications involved, for companies, markets, the environment and people. It teaches you what’s required to start your own business, how company boards work, how financial markets operate and how people make financial decisions… and these are only a few highlights!

It is probably one of the most relevant and diverse topics you can study, as it is changing every day! There is a huge scope in terms of career opportunities with top firms and public/third sector organisations all over the world. I am probably biased, but I don’t think any other subject gives you such a breadth of knowledge, with the chance to specialise if you would like to.

My job requires me to ingest and analyse information, think creatively about problem solving for clients, present findings and work independently (and collaboratively!) with sometimes minimal guidance. My degree set me up to do these things, and gave me a great foundation of skills which I will be able to use and build on throughout my career.

Post 16 Education: A Levels Medieval History, Biology & English Literature

Higher Education: BSc (Hons) Banking, Finance & Management

Why did you choose to study business?

I didn’t really know what I wanted to study; I just knew I wanted to go to uni. I chose a course that I thought would lead to a good job that would pay well. 

I think a degree in Finance / Business gives you such a broad range of career paths: it’s a great choice if you like being analytical and using critical thinking, but are not sure what sort of job you want to apply for. I also knew I really wanted a degree that offered the chance to have some industry experience. I think doing a placement gives you so much valuable experience, so by the time you graduate, you’ve already got a year in industry behind you. I think this really puts you ahead of other graduates when it comes to applying for jobs.

Alex’s experience as a student

I loved every year, and felt like by the end I had really changed in terms of how I could take information and come up with some kind of opinion, as well as the amount of knowledge and understanding I had gained. Even more than a year into my job, I still really miss studying and everything that comes with it. I feel like I got as much support as I needed, but also the freedom and space to study in a way that suited me. I loved doing longer pieces of coursework/projects, but you can choose modules with exams/coursework/group work depending on what you prefer: the flexibility combined with support when you need it is a really great combination.

Alex’s Career

I am a 2nd year Analyst at Deloitte, as part of their Analytics and Cognitive practice in Consulting (working with AI, data and all the associated bits that come with that!), originally based in Leeds but recently moved to London. 

I did a summer internship in their Risk Advisory service line after my placement year and joined as a graduate once I graduated in September 2018.