Toluwalope
Precious Leke-Oduoye

This profile features Toluwalope Precious Leke-Oduoye, an MSc Finance and Accounting student at Nottingham Business School. Her responses offer insight into her academic journey, experiences at NTU, and aspirations for the future.

Why NTU

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I chose NTU because I was inspired and encouraged by the profiles and testimonials I found on the university's website while researching. The focus NTU places on supporting its international students and fostering a friendly environment where diversity thrives stood out to me. My decision was heavily influenced by the idea of feeling at home, even though I was thousands of miles away. Additionally, NTU's reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to providing a well-rounded education assured me that I would gain immense value from my studies and receive support throughout my stay.

I chose this course to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. It was crucial for me to establish a solid foundation in my industry and acquire the skills required to make a significant impact on my career.

What has stood out about Nottingham Business School?

What has truly stood out to me about Nottingham Business School is the way the lecturers treat students like colleagues rather than just learners. They create a respectful atmosphere where no question is ever considered silly, which makes learning feel approachable and collaborative. Beyond academics, the lecturers go the extra mile to connect with us outside the classroom. They provide guidance on a variety of topics, ranging from personal growth and mental health to ethics and career preparation. I greatly value their willingness to act as references and mentors, as it demonstrates their genuine interest in our success.

The curriculum itself has been excellent, thoroughly covering all the fundamental topics of accounting and finance. It was designed to be inclusive, accommodating students who were switching courses or had limited experience in certain areas. Regardless of background, everyone had the opportunity to learn and grow thanks to this openness.

How would you rate the course facilities and why?

I would rate the course facilities at NTU very highly, as they made life as a student remarkably easy and efficient. The NTU online platform was incredibly accessible and user-friendly, allowing us to navigate our schedules, access course materials, and stay organised with ease. We could view our timetables, identify our lecturers, and prepare for classes in advance by reviewing the recommended materials, which made the learning process smoother and more engaging.

One noteworthy aspect was the provision of supplementary reference materials, which gave us additional resources to enhance our understanding. Another major benefit was the ability to review difficult concepts at any time or catch up on anything missed in class, thanks to recorded lectures.

What is your favourite thing about your course?

The versatility of my course is what I like best. There was always something new to spark my interest due to the variety of subjects and fields covered. This diversity not only made the learning process enjoyable but also gave me many opportunities to explore and identify my areas of greatest passion.

Have you taken part in academic mentoring? What has this role involved?

Yes, I took part in the academic mentorship component of the Transformation Leadership Programme. We were paired with mentors who helped us navigate challenges in our personal and academic lives by offering valuable advice and support. In addition to providing helpful guidance for balancing academics and extracurricular activities, the mentorship improved my understanding of campus life. My progress was monitored through regular check-ins, and any issues—academic or personal—were addressed promptly and effectively. Having someone to mentor and encourage me during this process was incredibly beneficial. It gave me a sense of responsibility and confidence, and it motivated me to take full advantage of the opportunities available.

When I’m not studying

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Friendly, calm, delicious (thanks to the numerous places to explore great food #wink)

How have you found Nottingham as a student city?

As a student, Nottingham has been an amazing city to live in. With schools and universities nearby, it feels very student-focused and is reasonably priced, which is a major relief. Great student housing spared me the hassle of tenancy issues, and affordable food shops and a wide range of retail options are conveniently located throughout the city. One of my favourite features is the variety of restaurants—there’s something for every taste, and they’re all reasonably priced. The city seems designed with the ease and enjoyment of student life in mind.

About the future

Did you find it easy to make friends at NTU?

Yes, I did find it easy to make friends at NTU. It’s quite surprising, considering how reserved I am, but I was able to connect with people who became not just classmates but friends. These friendships made my time at NTU much more enjoyable, as we supported and motivated each other in various aspects of life—academically, personally, and even in career decisions. Even now, we still keep in touch regularly, which says a lot about the bond we formed during our time at university.

What do you think of the support available at NTU?

The support at NTU is truly outstanding. The course staff are approachable and always ready to help. They make it clear that they are open to conversations and are there to guide you through your studies. The student support team is fantastic as well, always ready to assist with any concerns or issues, whether academic, personal, or otherwise.

The Employability team provided a wealth of resources to help plan your career both during and after NTU. They are readily available for chats and face-to-face conversations, offering practical advice and guidance. I found it so thoughtful that they even provided free corporate wear to support students during interviews. It’s little touches like that which really stand out.

The Global Lounge was another amazing resource. It provided a welcoming space to rest, unwind, and connect with people from different cultures. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the free lunches on Thursdays—they were such a treat.

What’s next for you after NTU?

I'm excited to fully dive into my career after NTU, exploring a variety of opportunities to discover what truly interests me and where my strengths lie. I can’t wait to challenge myself in new ways, develop the qualities I’ve gained through my studies, and ultimately pursue a career that aligns with both my skills and passions.

For international students

Why did you want to study in the UK?

I chose to study in the UK because of its long-standing history in accounting and finance, as well as its status as a major global financial hub. The country is home to many of the world’s top universities, offering high-quality programmes in finance and accounting—making it the ideal place for me to pursue my course. Additionally, the time zone alignment with my home country is a big advantage, as it makes it easier to stay in touch with my family while focusing on my studies.

How is NTU for international students?

NTU is fantastic for international students. The university offers plenty of support and opportunities to connect with others. There are many clubs and societies catering to a wide range of interests, which are great for networking and meeting new people. If you're feeling homesick, activities like Global Week and events organised by the Global Lounge create a welcoming and inclusive environment. These events not only help you adjust to life in the UK but also give you the chance to meet people from different cultures. It broadens your perspective, helps you understand other ways of life, and adds to the overall fun and enriching experience of studying in the UK.

Has the Employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU?

Yes, the Employability team has been incredibly helpful in preparing me for life beyond NTU. They helped me navigate the job market, particularly with creating a well-structured CV that aligns with UK employment standards. Coming from a different background where expectations can vary, this was especially valuable. Their advice on CV formatting and professional conduct has been extremely useful. Additionally, they provide helpful resources and guides to explore different career paths, which is great for planning next steps. What I find especially beneficial is that their support continues even after graduation, as alumni have access to ongoing career advice.