Claire Rodger - BSc (Hons) (Econ) Economics

'I chose Portsmouth because it has an excellent business school with new facilities and is on the south coast. I was fortunate enough to spend my third year working in the Securities Lending department at The Bank of New York.

My main function was to liaise with traders and counterparties to ensure timely settlement of trades. I would recommend taking a placement year as it allows for the development of professional skills, which together with the academic skills you’ll gain over the three year study program, will provide a desirable skill set to employers.

There is plenty to do in Portsmouth and everything is in close proximity to the Business School.'

Andrew Poett - BSc (Econ) (Hons) Economics, Finance and Banking

'I have always had my sights set on a career in investment banking. I knew Portsmouth Business School had a growing reputation for the quality of its courses and I jumped straight into the BSc (Econ) (Hons) Business Economics after completing my A Levels. The flexibility of the path structure allowed me to switch to the BSc (Hons) (Econ) Economics, Finance and Banking during my final year, which for me, offered a more focused content for my chosen career, including units on corporate finance and international banking and financial management.

During my second year I took a year long work placement working in London for Commerzbank AG. This was made possible through the help and advice of the Placements Office and various lecturers. The year’s experience was a distinct advantage when it came to looking for employment after graduation, and a week after leaving I had secured a role confirming Exotic Options working for the Royal Bank of Scotland back in London.'

Mark Dembowicz - BA (Hons) Applied Economics

‘I chose the University of Portsmouth Business School because of the way economics and my course were enthusiastically portrayed by the tutors on a Preview Day. I am very pleased with my choice as the enthusiasm of the teaching has continued throughout my course. My tutors in the Department  of Economics always seem happy to take time out to help me if I am struggling with any aspect of the work.

The Department of Economics was also very useful in helping me secure a work placement at HM Treasury, which was thoroughly enjoyable and allowed me to practise and further understand economics in a real-life environment. In particular, the unit Professional Development for Economists, taught in year two, was instrumental in helping secure my placement, and has provided a skills base to develop my employment prospects after graduation.

I am also impressed with Portsmouth as a place. Living here is enjoyable and entertaining, and has many options for nightlife, sports and activities, and all the benefits of living by the sea.’