Ying Zhang
MSc Business with Accounting & Finance (2019 - 2020)

Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, and the course you are studying.

I come from China, a country with a colourful landscape and profound human civilisation. Before joining WBS I studied Agricultural Engineering and Science in China, and worked for two years before deciding to apply to WBS. I wanted to pursue my passion and interest in business and decided to apply for MSc Business with Accounting & Finance at WBS.

What first attracted you to WBS, why did you choose to study here?

WBS is a prestigious business school receiving worldwide recognition. In addition to this an MSc degree from WBS is highly recognised by employers in China, so I believe that the experience of studying at WBS will be hugely beneficial to me in the future.

What would you say are the key things that sets WBS apart?

WBS provides students with all-round academic support. Apart from the scheduled lectures and seminars that all students are required to attend, there is also a large amount of co-curricular courses for students to choose from. For example, WBS provides termly academic English courses to improve student’s written English language skills which is really useful. Apart from academic activities and support, WBS also organises lots of careers networking events, guest speaker events and opportunities to visit other parts of the UK to make the WBS experience even more exhilarating.

What is the best thing about your course so far?

I think the best thing about my course so far is the module leaders who all provide a huge amount of support to students. You can visit them outside of lectures and seminars on a one-to-one basis to discuss any material that you are unsure of and gain a better understanding.

What is your favourite module? What do you cover on this module?

My favourite module is ‘Foundations of Financial and Management Accounting’. The module focuses on teaching us about how to prepare the provision of financial information to those outside of a particular business such as investors, suppliers of goods and services, or government authorities. This information is often required by companies for business planning, enabling them to make strategic decisions.

What has inspired you most throughout your studies at WBS?

I have been most inspired throughout my studies by my ability to adapt my mindset and work alongside classmates from all over the world. I have found that the multi-cultural atmosphere at WBS has made me more accepting of others viewpoints, perspectives and opinions.

What sort of support have you received so far from the CareersPlus team? How has that helped you?

As a WBS student I have access to a multitude of resources provided by the dedicated CareersPlus team. I have spoken to the career coaches on how to research my career interests further, prepare job applications and adapt my CV and covering letters to each application I make.

What do you aim to do once you graduate? Do you have a role lined up?

After I graduate my aim is to become a professional accountant working within a successful company.

What are your tips for getting the most out of an MSc for those starting in September?

My top tip for students to make the most out of their MSc would be to make sure you research the course you are interested in, in great detail. For me the WBS website provided lots of useful information which I found really helpful before I decided to apply. In addition to this, look at the student blogs, films and testimonials that are available on the website where you can find out more about your course and other students experiences of living and studying in the UK.

What top tips would you give to prospective MSc students who are deciding if WBS is the right place for them?

My top tips for prospective MSc students who are deciding whether WBS is the right place for them would be to engage with the MSc recruitment activities that are organised for prospective students, such as the offer holder open days and webinars. During these events you have the opportunity to speak to current students who are studying the course that you are interested in and can give you real-life insight into the course and what it’s like to study at WBS.