Course that broadens perspectives
‘Before coming to Bath, I did my A-Levels in my home country Malaysia. I have a strong science background, but decided to pursue a degree in economics when I developed a keen interest in financial newspapers, and wanted to contribute to one myself one day.
‘What I really liked about economics was how well the subject struck a fine balance between history, logic and modelling of the real world economic problems in present terms.’
Exciting academic environment
‘Having done my research, I decided to study BSc (Hons) Economics including a placement year mainly because the course offered the opportunity to work in the industry, and a wide range of unit choices covering topics such as game theory, health, industrial and monetary economics. The course at Bath is highly mathematical and analytical, which was something I particularly enjoyed.
‘The lecturers and tutors at Bath are highly qualified, engaging and patient in guiding students throughout the course, which is something many would appreciate given that coping with the course can be at times, rather challenging!’
Mission: Placement
‘From the beginning of their second year, students are able to apply to their choice of companies to work for, such as professional services, banking, insurance, multinationals or fintech. The Department of Economics has an established team of well-trained placement officers, who provide support and advice to students throughout their placement application process. This includes support on online assessment practices, cover letter and CV reviews, and mock interviews.
‘By choosing to undertake a placement year I was able to apply the skills I had learnt in a working environment. I was fortunate enough to receive the offer to work at the Bank of England in London, the UK Central Bank. I was based within a team developing regulatory policy for banks, insurance companies and other investment firms to promote a safe and sound financial system in the UK.’
Opportunity of a lifetime
‘During the placement, I was very fortunate to be given the opportunity to attend and contribute to international policy negotiations at teleconferences and a meeting in Paris with senior colleagues and policy experts. The learning experience was immense and the chance to build my network with colleagues from all over the world was invaluable.
‘The experience was a wonderful eye-opener and useful opportunity to help me identify the type of job I would like to do in the future. I am proud to say that employers are increasingly recognising the quality of Bath students. In my opinion, any placement year experience would add great value to one’s CV and upon successful completion of it, may even lead to a graduate position, which was the case for me.
‘An added bonus to the placement year is that, having managed to secure a graduate position before returning to university for the final year, would be a huge help and relief as students could then focus on completing their degree and not have to worry about further job applications and attending interviews.’
As an international student…
‘Making the decision to fly halfway across the globe to pursue further education was a massive sacrifice, having to leave my family and friends behind. Learning to start a life in a foreign country and adapting to the new environment was definitely the hardest thing I have had to learn.
‘Looking back, I have come a long way and am glad to say I do not have any regrets choosing to study at Bath. If I could, I would do it all over again!’
