Jonathan Akinrele
Jonathan is a 3rd year BSc Mathematics with Finance student. City's connections with the finance industry were a big draw for him.
Why did you decide to apply to study at City?
It is located in Central London which makes it easy for me to commute from home everyday. City is the best university for the degree that I am studying for in London in terms of the teaching quality.
What were the most important resources for you in helping you to make a decision?
The prospectus was very important for me. It allowed me to see a wide range of courses which were very enticing to study as well as the vast advantages of studying at City. Talking to previous students also helped me to make a decision as part of my degree is taught by City which is great for Mathematics and part of my degree is taught by Cass Business School which is the best business school in London and 4th in the UK. When I knew about this, I was certain about picking City as my university.
What is your favourite thing about studying at City?
I knew I wanted to stay in London, the best place to do Mathematics and Finance was at City because of the vast connections it has with the finance industry which is something I am looking to go in to in the future. My favourite thing about studying at City is the vast amount of study spaces that you can use. From five enormous floors in the library to a vast majority of classrooms that you can use when there are no lectures is the best thing for me. You can study independently or with a group and achieve great results.
What kind of things are you involved in outside of your course?
I am currently Finance Officer in Mathematics Society which started up last year. I am a Student Ambassador for the University where I have been a tour guide for prospective students and a school ambassador talking about my degree. I recently completed an internship at the fashion company Ralph and Russo. I play football every Tuesday with friends outside the University and occasionally I play table tennis with friends at CitySport where we train and practice our skills. I have also completed the National Citizen Service programme which involved voluntary work in my local care home. In addition, I raised some money to raise awareness about cancer related illnesses. I currently work as Teaching Assistant at Kumon and I have been there for three years now.
What do you plan to do after you graduate?
I hope to be on graduate scheme with one of the 'Big 4' banks in the UK.
What would be your top tip for our applicants?
Ask as many questions even if they seem "stupid" so that you really get a feel about how City is. Make sure to attend an Open Day or Applicant Day at least so that you get a feel of the environment and location. Do as much research as you can about the university and the course you want to study so that you have an idea about what it will entail.
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