Emine is a BSc Mathematics with Finance & Economics student.
Why did you choose City St George's?
I selected City St George's because it was one of the two universities in London offering a Mathematics course combined with Finance, which aligned perfectly with my academic interests.
At the time of applying, location played a significant role for me due to commuting considerations. City St George's stood out as the optimal choice because of its convenient accessibility.
What motivated you to pursue studies at university?
The motivation to pursue university studies stems from a variety of factors. Firstly, I had a genuine passion for learning and expanding my knowledge across different subjects, especially my choice of Mathematics. Additionally, obtaining a university degree will enhance my career prospects and open doors to more professional opportunities.
A university education will foster my personal growth, critical thinking skills, and ability to navigate challenges effectively. Moreover, it offers a platform to contribute meaningfully to society through research, community engagement, and professional endeavors.
Overall, this combination of impact motivated me to pursue studies at the university level.
What subjects did you study before applying for study at university?
I studied Mathematics, Economics, and Psychology in A-levels.
What does a typical week at university look like for you?
My weeks are typically quite packed with various activities and responsibilities. Throughout my first and second years, I found myself attending lectures for about 4 to 5 days each week.
In the intervals between lectures, I often took on shifts as a student ambassador, actively participating in open days and engaging with secondary schools and colleges during visits.
Additionally, I dedicated time to attend meetings related to my volunteering role as a course representative, collaborating closely with course officers to address student concerns and enhance the learning experience.
During breaks between lectures, I frequently utilised the library to prepare for upcoming lectures, ensuring I stayed ahead of the coursework and maximised my learning potential.
As I transitioned into my final year, my schedule has eased up significantly, with lectures now spanning only 2 days a week.
This newfound flexibility allows me to channel more energy and time into my final year group project, where I can focus intently on producing high-quality work and making meaningful contributions to the project's success.
What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?
Throughout my academic journey, I've found myself particularly drawn to the mathematical facets of my degree programme, with a special focus on the algebra modules. The intricacies of algebraic concepts have captivated my interest and fueled my enthusiasm for delving deeper into this area of study.
While I found the finance modules to be equally intriguing, they presented a distinct structure and approach compared to the mathematics modules. It almost felt like they belonged to a separate course altogether due to their unique framework and content.
Nonetheless, the insights gleaned from these finance modules have added valuable dimensions to my academic exploration, enriching my understanding of mathematical applications in real-world contexts.
What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?
Throughout my degree programme, I honed essential skills that have proven invaluable in both academic pursuits and practical applications. Chief amongst these are critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which I refined through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences.
One of the most significant insights I gained is the recognition that a single problem often harbors multiple solutions, each requiring a unique approach and perspective to unravel.
This understanding has not only broadened my problem-solving toolkit but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for the complexities inherent in addressing multifaceted challenges.
What opportunities and experiences has the rest of City St George's offered you so far?
City St George's provides a plethora of opportunities for students to engage in various activities aimed at enhancing their academic and personal growth. My involvement spans a wide spectrum, ranging from immersive summer abroad programs to fulfilling paid part-time work experiences.
One notable highlight was my participation in a summer program in Istanbul, Turkey, generously facilitated by City St George's. This enriching experience between my second and third years broadened my cultural horizons and provided invaluable insights into global perspectives.
Moreover, City St George's consistently organises diverse competitions focusing on entrepreneurship, employability, mentorship schemes, and more, offering students avenues for skill development and networking opportunities.
To facilitate part-time employment, City St George's collaborates with Unitemps, a platform where students can access a range of job opportunities and seamlessly apply for shifts.
This partnership not only empowered me to balance academic commitments with practical work experiences but also fostered a supportive environment for professional development and career readiness.
What advice would you give someone considering an undergraduate degree in your subject?
My academic programme offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum that spans a wide array of fields and disciplines. Rooted in the principles of STEM, my course provides a robust foundation in mathematics, a discipline that holds immense significance across various industries and sectors.
Mathematics, as a STEM subject, is highly esteemed and sought after by numerous companies and organizations. It is a challenging degree but it pays off very well as its well-recognised from employers and equips with good bank of skills.