Why did you decide to study at Durham University?

I chose to study at Durham University not only because it is ranked among the top five universities in the UK, but also because it is located in a charming city, it has a stunning campus, and the exceptional college atmosphere that Durham offers. It provided an ideal balance of academic excellence and a supportive, close-knit community. During my time at Durham, I lived in the beautiful Grey College.

Tell us about your career path since graduation from Durham University?

After graduating I joined KPMG as a Risk Consulting Graduate in October 2021. It was a challenging time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and all induction events were held online, which meant I didn't initially meet my colleagues or clients in person. Thankfully, things have returned to normal, and I now work with a fantastic team. The flexible working policy also allows me to work from home, which has been a great benefit.

What motivated you to choose your current/future field or industry? 

I chose to become a consultant in the financial industry because I find it incredibly exciting. Each day feels like a fresh start, offering countless learning opportunities and the chance to collaborate with smart, talented individuals. My passion for risk management also led me to acquire my Financial Risk Management Qualification.

What do you find most rewarding and challenging about your current role?

The most rewarding aspect of my role is working with talented people and helping clients solve complex problems, making a tangible difference to their organizations. The biggest challenge, however, is often delivering high-quality work within tight deadlines. It requires utilizing all available resources and figuring out the most efficient approach, which can be tricky, but the sense of accomplishment after achieving it is incredibly fulfilling.

What skills or qualities do you think are most important for success in this field? 

I believe the most important skill for success is to never stop learning and to remain true to yourself. This can be harder than it sounds, especially when transitioning from university to the working world, which is a completely different experience. It’s important to stay focused on your goals, persist through difficulties, and not be distracted by the noise around you. For instance, securing a job during the COVID-19 pandemic was tough—I sent out hundreds of CVs and attended numerous interviews, but persistence paid off in the end. In a fast-paced environment like London, staying focused is key.

Any interesting stories you would like to share from your time at Durham?

Yes, I have a memorable story from my time at Durham. Grey College organized an event where Durham alumni were invited to share their career experiences. I was fortunate to attend and meet Phil Smart, a Grey College alumnus who joined KPMG as a graduate in 1991 and is now a senior client leader partner at the firm. He shared many interesting stories that evening, and I was deeply inspired by him. That event solidified my goal of joining KPMG, and Phil became a mentor who helped open doors for me.

Is there anything that you know now that you wish you’d known when graduating?

If there’s one thing I wish I’d known when graduating, it’s the importance of networking. Staying connected with your classmates and attending as many networking events as possible is crucial. You never know who you’ll meet, what conversations you’ll have, or how they might inspire or shape your career decisions. Networking can open doors in ways you can’t always anticipate!