Meet Mannik
Economics and Finance BSc
Hello, I’m Mannik. I chose to study in the UK as economics and finance are sought-after degrees here. It’s a much better environment than back home in India for undergraduate students who want to prepare for a future in this area.
I want to work in investment banking, which you can do after an undergraduate degree in the UK, but you need an MBA to do it in India. My plan is to stay here for a few years, then I would love to be a lifelong expat working in different countries and learning about different cultures. I enjoy meeting people with different upbringings than mine, and it is something I wish to keep exploring.
Life in the city and on campus
I picked Newcastle because it’s a Russell Group university with a good international ranking. The application to the University was straightforward, and I received the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship.
The people in the city are nice and I feel like it’s very safe. There is lots of old architecture too.
There’s a nice park behind St. James’ that I recently discovered, so I plan to start going there more often now. One place I’m planning to visit is Jesmond Dene. I’ve seen pictures and it looks pretty so I’m looking forward to visiting there.
I like shopping in Eldon Square as it’s very close. The Quayside is also nice with the Tyne River and the bridge. I also love going to watch the sunrise at Tynemouth beach.
I’ve joined the Investment Society, Economics Society and the Hindu and Sikh Society. I’ve been to quite a few pub quizzes, mini golf sessions and panel discussions. I had the chance to visit a temple with the Hindu and Sikh Society and attend the Diwali ball, which was their main event of the year.
A future investment banker
I’d describe my course as analytical, vast and practical. It’s also very useful – everything is related to economics and finance! I couldn’t decide which subject to study out of the two so I’m so glad I can do both. You get access to a variety of industries too.
I am interested in a career as an investment banker because you get to work with C-suite executives early on in your career and get to work on high-profile deals. It is a very intense and competitive environment, which I feel will help push me to be my best.
Meeting managing directors in the sector
I cannot stress this enough – the Careers Service have given me tons of support. I would say it’s the best part of the university. In my first six months, I have attended over 45 events, from CV workshops and coffee chats with employers, to speed networking events and national treks. I have also had one-to-one advice sessions.
I’ve been to HSBC and Hawksford in London, as well as the Darlington Economic Campus. Locally, I’ve visited Barclays and RBC Brewin Dolphin. These have all increased my confidence and helped me make decisions about my career.
I have had opportunities to speak with associates and managing directors in investment banking, which has clarified my vision. They helped shape me as a professional and helped me understand the UK job market. By speaking to people, I now know about careers that I didn’t even know existed!
The team that helps students find placements and study abroad is great as well. I have secured a scholarship from them and am getting a chance to go to Sri Lanka to volunteer this summer.
Related student stories
Chinomso from Nigeria
International Development and Education with Cross-cultural Communication MA
If you're passionate about saving the world through education, Newcastle has the right course for you.
John from India
Geospatial Surveying and Mapping BEng
My course focuses on land and marine surveying applications. What sets the University apart in this area are the dedicated labs.
Aaryan from India
Computer Science BSc
To support my studies, I’ve been awarded a VCIS (Vice Chancellor International Scholarship) worth £4,000. The rest of my fees are self-funded.
Lukman from Nigeria
Mechanical and Systems Engineering PhD
Newcastle University really welcomes international students. It’s clear that the institution strongly values inclusion and diversity.
Madiha from India
English Literature with Creative Writing BA
The application process was straightforward and I felt very supported by the University throughout.
Jasmine from Malaysia
Dietetics MDiet
Newcastle feels like somewhere between a big city and a small town.
Hana from Czechia
International Business Management BSc
I’m not sure what I want to do in the future, being able to study lots of different modules is giving me the chance to explore all the possibilities.
Bernardo from Brazil
Law PhD
I am deeply passionate about the RED (Researcher Education and Development) programme - it has been an integral part of my PhD journey.
Aytach from Azerbaijan
Media and Public Relations MA
There is so much I enjoy about my course: the modules, practical tasks and assignments.