Why choosing School of Business changed my life

My name is Sidharthan Kodappully Renjish. I graduated in 2025 with a Bachelor of Accountancy (Hons) degree from the School of Business at the University of Dundee. Upon completing my Corporate Finance internship with Unanet, I will be joining EY in Edinburgh as part of their Assurance Graduate Scheme.

A New Hope

Before joining the University of Dundee, I was uncertain about my future and stuck studying A-level subjects I didn’t enjoy. I think I was simply afraid to step away from the familiar and explore something new. At that point, I had no background in accounting or finance, but I’d always had a genuine interest in the field. Eventually, I reached a turning point: continue down a path I had no passion for, or venture into the unknown and pursue something I could truly see myself enjoying and building a future in.

Through careful research, I found that the University of Dundee offered exactly what I was looking for: a highly regarded Business School, a well-ranked Accountancy course, and strong career prospects for its graduates. Dundee gave me the clean break I needed. From the beginning, I was introduced to fresh, unfamiliar material, new ways of thinking, and entirely different concepts from anything I had studied before. The learning curve was steep, but luckily, the course is designed to build knowledge progressively over four years, with each stage laying the foundation for the next. You’re not just thrown into the deep end; instead, you’re guided step by step, gradually gaining the confidence and skills to dive deeper.

I was also fortunate to have great mentorship from my academic advisor, Renzo Cordina, who supported me not just academically but also personally and professionally. Sometimes, all someone needs is reassurance and confidence in their ability, and he consistently provided that. My tutors also played an important role throughout my studies, offering guidance, encouragement, and a strong learning environment that helped me grow both as a student and as a future professional.

Opening Doors

Dundee also opened new doors for me by introducing me to the Saltire Scholars programme, a funded summer internship initiative offering opportunities across a wide range of subjects and industry sectors. Through this programme, I was fortunate to secure a role as a Corporate Finance Intern at Unanet, an experience that greatly enriched my professional development and business acumen.

If you had asked me four years ago whether I’d be starting my career at a Big 4 accounting firm after university, I wouldn’t have believed it. But thanks to the support and opportunities I found at Dundee, that possibility became a reality. This degree helped me transform not only my career prospects but also my sense of purpose and self-belief.

Closing Remarks

Looking back, choosing to study Accountancy at the University of Dundee was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It gave me the technical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and practical experience I needed to launch a career I’m genuinely passionate about. More importantly, it taught me to embrace uncertainty, to challenge myself, and to seize opportunities, even when they seem intimidating at first.

All of this would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family and friends, whose belief in me never faltered, even during the most challenging moments. I owe so much to their love and encouragement—thank you.

Now, as I prepare to begin the next chapter of my journey at Ernst Young, I do so with confidence, gratitude, and a renewed sense of ambition. I know the road ahead won’t be without its challenges, but if there's one thing Dundee taught me, it’s that growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone, and that’s exactly where I plan to stay.