Alumni

Smith Chauque

Career Path: Finance Manager, Pacific Corp UK
Location: Maputo, Mozambique

It wasn’t easy getting this job, it took plenty of preparation and I am thankful to my Tutor, Teresa Roça, as her classes helped me understand the job market. I wanted to go into this field because I believed there were gaps in the market that could be tackle and being part of the teams involved in this will help me to make an impact. I am very thankful to my tutors and I would say to every other student to work hard. One of the things that helped me was that I would contact the companies directly and I would send them some letters too, that way it would increase my chances as I was networking and asking guidance from the recruiters and often I would seek feedback as well.

What are you doing now?

I am currently working in Turkey, I have been lucky to use the skills gained at Northumbria to network with others and as a result I was lucky enough to travel to different places.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

Firstly it was the reputation for me, I always bared into my mind that if you want to play against the big league lads, their kit may seem heavier for the sight but I should never be scared of wearing the same boots as them because one way or another we would have to kick the same ball, Northumbria was consistent in its growing cycle so I felt that the environment here would encourage me to deliver something. Secondly, the city. Newcastle is such a warm and welcoming city, I loved the idea that it was a city rich in history and remarkable landmarks with a sense of home because of the international exposure and international community composed of students from different parts of the world, the city made the world appear smaller to me, we had everything and everyone, culture, food, people, social distractions and more.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

It made me feel like I was born again. I was privileged because I got high quality practical training, work experience and employment preparation. Northumbria made it possible for me to discover myself while gaining a broader understanding of different cultures. Northumbria also granted me the opportunity to completely immerse myself in new sectors and interests, there was no better way to learn than to dive right in. Needless to say, Northumbria brought out the best in me, my personal development in particular. I became an explorer of myself and really discovered the curiosity and excitment that I harbor. Lastly, I was honoured by being awarded the NBS Award (Northumbria Business Scholar Award). This award summed it all up for me about studying at Northumbria. Northumbria is the way forward.

How connected was your course with industry?

My course was well connected. I was even prepared for the real market challenges. I was lucky I would have to say I had the best tutors and colleagues as without them I do not believe that this could have been possible.