Asset and Wealth Management (AWM) Audit Business Unit PwC
Tell us a little bit about yourself
My name is Lisa and I studied BSc Economics from 2017-2020. Throughout University, I worked a part-time job in a tuition centre and my hobbies included working to achieve Grade 8 Piano.
Why did you choose to study Economics at Royal Holloway and what did you enjoy most about your course?
I still tell my friends this: Royal Holloway has, by far, the most beautiful campus—and the life at this University is fabulous. The range of modules available enable students to engage with topics at a greater depth and intimacy. I personally really enjoyed Public Economics, which provided me a foundation into my internship within the Government Economic Service.
How was your personal experience of being part of the Economics community as a close-knit group of staff and students?
The Economics community definitely translates itself as a group of closely-bonded staff and students. In my second year, I inherited a role as an Economics Representative where I collated student feedback to proactively seek out students’ opinions, which is an example of how staff consider students’ feedback. The staff were always willing to help in every manner, and this served to further my academics. Moreover, the constant encouragement from both the staff and my peers has also inspired me to endeavour expanding my studies and career path. I’ve built close friendships with others in my cohort and have built relationships that will last well beyond University.
How did Royal Holloway help you to discover opportunities and prepare you for life after university?
During my first year, I had the opportunity to start a Taiwanese Society. In creating and chairing this group, I gained transferrable skills to the workplace: of leadership and communicational skills. The Econ@Work and employability events held throughout the year were also helpful as it gave me insight on varying opportunities and career options available. The Economics Department also paired me with an Academic Advisor, whose guidance in applying for my MSc has benefited me greatly. There was also the Royal Holloway Passport Award, which encouraged me to initiate a variety of co-curricular activities outside of my studies.
Tell us about your career journey since graduating and what you do now.
Since graduating, I have completed a MSc at LSE and interned at the GES (Government Economic Service). I am now working at PwC in the Asset and Wealth Management (AWM) Audit Business Unit. Alongside this, I am also currently working towards the ICAEW ACA professional qualification.
What do you enjoy most / find most rewarding about your current role?
I enjoy the continuous learning opportunities available and learning through new challenges. This ranges from studying for my professional qualification to the various internal trainings offered. Also, I enjoy understanding my clients’ businesses and the industry in which they operate—the AWM industry plays a pivotal role within our economy and in society.
What are your top tips for students thinking about a career in your line of work/study?
The importance of networking, reaching out to others who work in the line of service you’re interested in, and taking advantage of any opportunities your network may offer. I still continue to network with Royal Holloway alumni at PwC and receive valuable career development advice! Take your time to research the role, the firm you want to work with, and be open-minded to trying new things.
