Toni James: Students are not only taught academically, but also trained for a future career

I previously served 7 years in the Royal Navy. I wanted to pursue a postgraduate qualification to enhance my learning, and gain more knowledge and understanding that will help to boost my career.

I chose Portsmouth because of the accreditations that can be had from professional bodies, the use of financial databases such as Bloomberg and statistical software such as EViews, which enhances practical learning in the real world. I use the Bloomberg terminal to extract and analyse trades and real time financial market movements, and EViews for analysing economic and finance data. There is an opportunity to go on work placement at home or abroad in order to gain work experience in your chosen career.

I have developed my confidence through individual and group presentation, and am better able to work well with others. I have learned time management and improved my analytical thinking through academic research. Extra support is available for academic writing through study support, one to one help with mathematics via the Maths Café and guidance with referencing from the Library staff.

Students are not only taught academically, but also trained for a future career. The Careers and Employability Service offer careers advice, assist with CV writing, startup business, short online courses for personal development, how to answer tough interview questions, and a host of other events.

I am better prepared for the start of a new career. My goal is to progress into corporate employment with a Big Four organisation. In doing so, I will continue to be an ambassador for the University, promoting its values and standards.

I am currently in part-time employment as a postgraduate ambassador at the University. I am a mother of one, and I also volunteer with Alabre, which involves being a befriender to homeless veterans. It gives me great satisfaction.

Portsmouth is a great place to live, work and study. There is a vast diversity of students and lecturers at the University, and a great support network academically and professionally. There are a number of societies, clubs and sporting activities you can get involved in. There are opportunities to work and study abroad, and to learn a new language. Modern facilities and study spaces are available to all students, and students are always given the opportunity to have their say to bring about change.