Omotola Olufunmilayo

After completing my bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy, I transitioned into the finance profession, beginning my career as an auditor at KPMG, where I gained more than four years of professional experience. My time in audit gave me valuable exposure to different organisations, strengthened my analytical skills and developed my understanding of financial processes, risk management and business operations.

As I progressed in my career, I realised that I wanted to expand my knowledge beyond audit and develop a broader understanding of business strategy, leadership and decision-making. Pursuing an MBA (Master of Business Administration)(opens in new tab) felt like the natural next step because it allowed me to build on my professional experience while gaining the wider business knowledge needed to progress further in the finance industry.

When choosing where to pursue my master’s degree, I wanted to study in a global business environment, and London immediately stood out. As one of the world’s leading financial and business hubs, London provides the perfect setting to gain international exposure and learn alongside people from diverse backgrounds. After researching different options, I chose the University of Sunderland in London because of its welcoming environment, commitment to supporting international students and strong sense of inclusion within its community.

I have genuinely enjoyed my studies at the University of Sunderland in London. One of the things I appreciate most is the friendly and approachable nature of the academics and staff. The availability of support and learning resources has made both lectures and independent study more engaging and effective. I also value the balance between practical and theoretical learning within the MBA programme, as it helps students connect academic concepts with real-world business challenges.

Beyond my studies, I have had the opportunity to become part of the University community as a Digital Coach and Student Ambassador. This experience has allowed me to support other students, engage with people from different cultures and experience first-hand the supportive environment that the University promotes.

After completing my MBA, I want to continue building my career within the finance sector. With my previous experience at KPMG, my MBA qualification and my ongoing ACCA studies, I believe I am developing the skills and knowledge required to contribute meaningfully to leading finance organisations. My goal is to pursue opportunities where I can combine financial expertise with strategic thinking to support business growth and effective decision-making.

My advice to future students considering the University of Sunderland in London is to embrace the opportunity and take that step forward. Starting a new academic journey in a different environment can be challenging, but the support available makes the transition much easier. Make use of the resources around you, connect with your lecturers and fellow students, and be open to new experiences. The University provides a supportive platform that allows students to grow academically, professionally and personally.