Neha Mahmood

Numbers have the power to influence guide and control both our behaviour and attitudes to certain situations. They provide the basic building blocks and structures of many things. Throughout my studies of A-level economics I have explored the importance of finance in addressing the basic economic problem...scarcity. It provides the basic information for firms and individuals to make important decisions that can have potential impacts on its future success. The control numbers and maths have in nearly every aspect of life has always been of great interest to me and is what prompted my interest in the world of accounting and finance.

The idea of problem solving and numbers really appeals to me and I believe accounting and finance provides the perfect blend of putting these into practise. Throughout my academic career I have always excelled in subjects like economics and maths which I believe will be of vital importance when starting a career in accounting and finance; hence my desire for pursuing a career in this field.

I have also learnt through my research that a career in the field of Accounting is not about numbers alone; but how they help in the improvement of processes that help organisations in planning strategies required in achieving their micro and ultimately macro objectives. This is also what appeals to me in my desire to be a catalyst to positive change.

• I am a keen reader and often enjoy reading crime and mystery novels aswell as non-fiction books surrounding a particular topic I may be interested in at the time. The book I am currently reading is Age of Discovery which explores the subject of world economics in greater detail. Recently, I have become more aware of environmental issues and so decided that I could contribute to the drive for sustainability through the selling of my own belongings. This has enabled me to not only recycle items that are no longer in use to me, but also gain an insight into the business world through making a profit and learning about different business objectives such as sales maximising, customer satisfaction and ROI. Keeping fit and healthy is an important factor for me and my family so we often go on walks around our neighbourhood or our local park. Giving back to my community is something I enjoy doing this includes helping elderly neighbours with daily tasks i.e. collecting groceries for them or carrying items inside for them as they are unable to do so themselves. I also enjoy playing sports such as tennis, cricket and especially badminton.

• Certificate awarded for learning correct CPR procedures (date awarded: 04/10/23)
• Duke of Edinburgh BRONZE - developed key communication, leadership and teamwork skills, whilst also strengthening my ability to stay resilient when enduring tough situations.
• Attended an in person Law advocacy workshop delivered by barrister Emily Langdale - involved debating and argument-based discussions which helped to develop my confidence and problem solving.
• Completed grades 1,2 and 3 in piano by the ABRSM
• Completed a digital work experience delivered by Reed Learning (06/07/24)
• Visited Pakistan, a low income country, on three occasions volunteering at the poor community orphanages - this enabled me to acknowledge the circumstances that less fortunate people live through, I gained key communication skills when comforting the children who were unable to communicate themselves.
• Gaining an insight into the real business world through reviewing family members financial business accounts, further enabling me to gain a deeper understanding of the technicalities of a business and its finances.
• Attended a young professionals webinar on accounting and professional services which broadened my understanding of the different career pathways accounting and finance has to offer.
• Attended a maths based event in St George's Hall, Bradford, which featured speakers who were experts in their field that discussed the different areas of maths, some of which were new to me. They also discussed the value of maths in everyday life.