Two North East accountancy students are celebrating after being recognised as top students by an international professional body.
Oliver Wolfenden, 22, from Eldwick in Yorkshire and Laura Pearson, 22, from Ilkley, Leeds have both graduated from Newcastle Business School, part of Northumbria University and both have been named as Best Student by the Association of International Accountants.
Laura Pearson and Oliver Wolfenden
They have both been studying BA (Hons) Business with Finance at Newcastle Business School, part of Northumbria University, a four year degree course which includes a one year work placement opportunity and covers financial reporting, international accounting and strategy.
Laura scooped the best student prize two years ago and has landed a full time job at GE Money in Leeds, after spending a year on placement with the company during her studies. She says “I was really keen to study this course at Newcastle Business School because of the opportunity to undertake a one year placement and I am delighted to have landed a permanent job.”
Oliver received his award for this year’s top student at his degree ceremony in Newcastle and was presented with a cheque for £100. He says “I spent a year on work placement at stockbroker firm Brewin Dolphin Securities in Newcastle and I am looking forward to doing a PhD at Newcastle Business School. I chose to study here because of the reputation of the University and the opportunity to live and study in Newcastle and I am looking forward to continuing my studies.”
Rachel Rutherford, Marketing and PR Executive for the Association of International Accountants presented Oliver with a certificate and a cheque for £100 at his degree ceremony. After graduating with a first class honours degree, Oliver has also been nominated for the organisation’s National Graduate of the Year competition. Rachel says “Oliver is a deserved AIA prize winner, having demonstrated great aptitude across the whole spectrum of business, accounting and finance and I am sure he will go on to excel in his chosen career.
AIA was founded in the UK in 1928 as a professional accountancy body and from the outset has promoted the concept of ´international accounting’ to create a global network of accountants in over 85 countries worldwide. Many AIA members are at the top of their industry, from senior management to director level, representing some of the most important and profitable firms in the world.
Philip Shrives, Programme Director for the BA (Hons) Business with Finance at Newcastle Business School says “We have an excellent relationship with the AIA and are delighted that they have recognised the achievements of our students.”
Date posted: 23.07.08