Studying a GA has allowed Emma Finegan to achieve her goals

Emma works as an Accounts Assistant at IKM Testing UK Ltd and is currently undertaking a GA in Accounting. The unique course at RGU allows students to work full-time while undertaking an honours degree with the globally recognised CA qualification.

Speaking of the advantages of the programme, Emma said: “One of the main things which appealed to me about the GA programme was the blended learning route. Not only am I learning the underpinning theory of accountancy processes and concepts, I am able to take what I learn and apply it in my day-to-day job at IKM.

“Another factor which appealed to me was having a workplace mentor who is my manager. My mentor is required to set me work based learning activities, as well as the RGU required activities, so having this guidance throughout the course has been extremely advantageous. She is able to set me activities which compliment both my learning through the GA programme and my progression at IKM.

“I think participating in the GA programme has encouraged me to learn more about the finance department and IKM as a whole quicker than I would have done without it. I feel as though having this GA programme to progress through has allowed me to gain more knowledge and insight into the company.

“The main benefit of the GA programme for me is being able to put the learning materials into practice in my role at IKM. It really demonstrates to me how this programme is allowing me to develop at IKM. I can now undertake more tasks with the learning I have completed through the GA programme than I did beforehand.”

Emma said she would like to enhance her skills learned through the GA programme in her role at IKM progressing on to a Financial Accountant.

“I believe the GA programme has assured me that my goals are achievable if I continue to succeed through this course. It has also given me the confidence to set myself these goals. I also believe it would be very rewarding to become a mentor to any other future accountancy students at IKM having had the personal experience of studying this myself. I would like to use my experience positively to encourage those wishing to learn in the same workplace that I have.”

Emma said she would 100% recommend the GA Programme: “It may seem daunting studying and working full time, however, it is so worth it and it is surprising how quickly you can adapt. My advice would be to get yourself into a routine each week of watching the lecture slides and attending the online lectures held by the module co-ordinators – these sessions will heighten your learning experience. Make sure you are allowing yourself free time to enjoy the things you love to do – you still need a good work/life balance! And most importantly, don’t leave things until the last minute!”