Anthony Annan

MSC Business With Financial Management

Where are you from?

Ghana

What undergraduate course did you study and where?

BSc Actuarial Science with Statistics at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana

Why did you decide to study a masters?

I have the passion for academia and I aspire to pursue a PhD after the Masters degree.

Why did you choose Northumbria University? Why did you choose your specific course?

We chose each other. Northumbria is a world class university with lecturers whose experiences transcend the lecture halls. You are sure to pass out not only with an academic certificate but with a real world experience. I participated in a national competition that saw me emerge as one of the winners and the reward was the chance for me to come to Northumbria to pursue a course of my choice. I chose business because of my aptitude for quantitative and analytic subjects.

What makes your specific course challenging/inspiring/different? How would you sum up the difference between Undergraduate and Postgraduate study?

My course is challenging in the sense that you are always required to give more than you are given. With undergraduate studies, the lecturers are fine if you reproduce just what they teach you but with postgraduate studies you must give more and demonstrate an understanding of a subject with good references.

What was it like studying at Northumbria? What are the different ways that you learn on your course?

It's really amazing. One of my modules this term required the class to go on a weekend residential; the activities unlocked my understanding of all that has been taught in the lecture hall. One other module required us to play a business game simulation exercise and apply what we've been taught. It was really amazing and rewarding. This is what I believe education is all about, to be able to connect theory with practice and have a meaningful impact.

How connected is your course with industry? Do you have the opportunity of placement, work on projects?

It is very much connected to industry because most of the seminars are real world examples which are applicable in the business world.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

They are very knowledgeable, very experienced beyond the lecture halls and most importantly very accessible

How accessible do you find our staff? Do you feel at ease?

Very accessible. With just an email, you can set up a meeting at short notice.

As a postgraduate student, what aspects of university life are important to you?

The facilities are so important to me especially the library and the e-learning portal. In the comfort of your accommodation you can access any information and course material relevant for your studies. Even for books that are not readily available in the library, it can be arranged for you to have them from elsewhere.

What doors do you think this course will open for you? How will your course help you achieve your career goals/give your career an edge?

My goal to pursue a PhD is on course and it could even be at the Newcastle Business School if I get the chance. I would really want to continue working with some of the lecturers

Have you changed as a person?

Yes I have changed. I have become more self-aware and have identified areas for personal development by studying my current course.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words before coming to Northumbria? What are the 3 key skills and attributes you have gained since being here?

Ambitious, confident and hardworking. Since being at Northumbria, I have become a good manager of my time, a good team player and have become culturally mindful.