University helped me decide my dream career path, says Finance grad

Before joining the University of Northampton, Danyal Ahmed had his heart set on a career in the high stakes world of investment banking.

Although after three years of studying BSc Banking and Financial Planning, taking on a part time job and receiving advice from his lecturers – he realised his true calling.

Danyal, 22 from Welwyn, Hertfordshire, said: “My aim pre-university was to go into investment banking. However after studying banking and financial planning for a year I realised that I enjoyed financial planning more.

“Instead of a year in industry (on placement), I opted to work part time at a wealth management firm so that I could gain the relevant experience of a placement year whilst still graduating in three years. I worked part time for nearly two years which confirmed my desire to pursue a career in wealth management.”

Danyal admits this change of career choice was the best decision he could’ve made, as he continues to thrive in wealth management.

He adds: “I have been working at a top 25 wealth management firm for the last year which I am thoroughly enjoying. I started off in administration and have now moved into a paraplanning role. This is essentially research and report writing for IFAs (Independent Financial Advisers).

“My long term goal is to become a financial adviser, in the next five years I would like to have achieved chartered status in financial planning.”

With the majority of his family educated to degree level and with backgrounds in finance and banking – Danyal’s time in higher education was a crucial crossroads for deciding his future. But he feels he chose the perfect university to make this decision, graduating with first class Honours.

Danyal added: “My time at University of Northampton was thoroughly enjoyable, the course challenged me to produce work to the best of my ability. The lecturers were enthusiastic and always available to help. I also made some great friends during my three years and I will never forget my time there.”

For more information on BSc Banking and Financial Planning, you can visit the course page.