Dr Francis Awolowo, from Nigeria, completed his postgraduate studies at Sheffield Hallam. He has since gone on to complete a PhD and become a course leader and lecturer at the University. 

“My academic journey at Sheffield Hallam began when I joined as an MSc student in Forensic Accounting. I chose to study in Sheffield because of the courses offered at Sheffield Hallam, and also because of the city’s low cost of living. 

“I then went on to complete a PhD, and some of my thesis findings were included in the government’s Brydon report, which looked at enhancing audit quality in the UK. I was employed as a member of the teaching staff before I had even finished my studies, and I now supervise three Nigerian postgraduate students. 

“My research interest is in occupational fraud and abuse, forensic accounting, corporate governance, auditing, mergers and acquisitions and degree attainment gap.  

“I am also working on an OFS/UKRI funded project to mentor black and mixed black heritage students in the UK towards postgraduate research.  

“My academic career was made possible because of the experience and support that I received at Sheffield Hallam. I received first-class mentorship – my tutors saw the potential in me and gave me the platform to thrive. 

“Whether or not you want to get into teaching, a postgraduate course in accounting really increases your employability and earning potential. At Sheffield Hallam, our course content equips you to be an asset to an organisation, capable of solving problems. 

“If you are interested in teaching, one of the great things about Sheffield Hallam is it provides you with opportunities to get experience through the Graduate Teaching Assistant scheme. I’m currently supervising a Nigerian student who is taking this route. 

“There is also a range of training available through the University for students who want to lecture. I completed a course which helped me learn how to prepare and deliver high-quality engaging lessons. This built my confidence and enhanced my employability. 

“If you are looking for a university that gives its students opportunities and allows them to reach their potential, then Sheffield Hallam University is the place to be. 

“My advice to anyone thinking of completing postgraduate studies is just go for it! With focus and determination, you can achieve anything.”