Faris Ghandour

BAEcon Finance

Why did you choose to study your course?

Watching how Apple and Amazon stocks rose to make them the first trillion-dollar companies made me curious about how investment bankers would have acted seeing those insane numbers. I immediately hopped online to learn about the ways they did it.

I found out that shrewd analysis is needed in every step along the way. I knew that I wanted to be a part of this and pursuing a career in finance would get me to my desired field of work. I now enjoy having a deeper understanding of how everything works and can actually do those finance-related things myself.

I like that I am doing what I enjoy and do not waste time studying things that are not related to the career I want to pursue.

Why did you choose to study at The University of Manchester?

I did a lot of research and The University of Manchester ticked a lot of my boxes. It was also one of the top universities for my course. 

What were your main considerations when choosing to study at The University of Manchester?

I researched the city and how it is living there, as well as the University experience and what it can bring to me. Also, I knew that being at this University would give me a big advantage later on because of its reputation and employability so I worked hard to make sure I got an offer to study there. 

What has been the highlight of your course so far?

I love that I am finally learning things about my desired field of work. I have a better understanding of the different financial processes and why things happen the way they do. 

What has been the most challenging part of your course so far?

I would say the most challenging part is the fact I am not on campus. I miss the student life of Manchester and the interactions with new people and making new friends. Hopefully, I will be able to go back soon.

Have you undertaken any placements?

I have not but, I am optimistic that I will soon as it will be very beneficial for me.

What area are you specifically interested in?

Investment banking, as well as anything related to finance.

I have many hours of research about investing under my belt so I have strong knowledge of the subject.

How would you describe your student experience so far?

It has been good so far. Doing university online had its pros and cons, but overall, I am satisfied.

What is the best thing about studying in Manchester?

The diversity of the cultures as well as the food and the nice people.

Also, coming from the Middle East, Manchester has a lot more opportunities in so many different things so I'm trying to experience as much as I can and learn about it all.

Are you involved in any extracurricular activities?

Currently, no. However, I have applied to a few societies and volunteering programmes and I am waiting for an answer from them.

I have a lot of volunteering experience from school so I definitely recommend everyone to join a volunteering club. It can give you a new perspective on life and make you appreciate how blessed you are compared to others, and value the things you have more. 

How is your international student experience been at the University?

I like the independence and responsibility that you have to take because it makes you grow as a person.

I had many new experiences with different people and cultures. I took part in Culture Day where all of the different cultures that were in my college came together and shared their traditions and food.

Do you have any tips for students thinking of applying to Manchester?

Choosing what university you want can be difficult so you should look into the city and the people that live there, as well as the university. What activities and things the city offers can help you grow as a person.

Furthermore, never study what others want you to study. As long as you study what you like and what you are passionate about, then you will have the best time of your life and it will be a smooth sail throughout. 

I would say that although this next step can be terrifying, I can guarantee it is also exciting and interesting. You will learn so many things about what you want to do later in life and about yourself. 

What are your plans for after graduation?

I am considering getting my Master's degree to aid me in achieving my desired goal of becoming an Investment Banker. 

I know this course will help me because the things I learned in Semester one have already given me a lot of relevant knowledge that I can use in my career. 

Also, taking a diverse selection of classes will help me understand the various sub-fields of my course and not just one area. I am hoping to become financially free and independent so that I can one day not have to answer back to anyone and become my own boss. 

Any last comments?

I'd say university can be one of the best things you experience in your life.