Charlotte McGrail

I’ve always had an interest in how businesses run behind the scenes, particularly in finance. Accounting stood out to me as a subject that combines structure, analysis and real-world application. I liked that it offered a clear career path but also required critical thinking and attention to detail. I saw it as a profession where I could grow, specialise and make a tangible impact.

After facing setbacks at a previous university, I needed a fresh start in a more supportive environment and I found that at Edge Hill. From the first conversation I had with staff during my transfer, I felt welcomed and understood. They made the transfer process smooth and helped me settle quickly into my lectures. The University’s reputation for student support and its smaller, more personal learning environment really appealed to me. On top of that, the degree offers exemptions from professional accounting bodies like ACCA and ICAEW, which showed me the course was designed with real careers in mind and aligned with industry standards. Choosing to study here changed everything for me, it was exactly what I needed.

The top three skills I have developed during my degree are:

• Resilience – My academic journey hasn’t been straightforward, but learning to bounce back from setbacks has shaped me into someone more determined and focused.
• Technical Skills – Especially through practical modules like the Sage Computerised Accounting module, which gave me real, hands-on experience.
• Communication – The teaching style at Edge Hill encouraged asking questions and collaborating, which really helped me grow in confidence.

I enjoy how varied my degree is, from theory to practical modules. Every part of the course feels relevant and engaging. The computerised accounting software module stood out because it gave me real-world, hands-on experience. It put academic learning into practice, making the work feel more tangible and career focused. The fact that the course also provides exemptions from professional qualifications means I’m not just studying, I’m getting a head start in my career. Alongside this, the dedicated teaching staff with industry backgrounds offered valuable insights beyond the curriculum.

The best thing about Edge Hill to me is the support from lecturers. It’s been the biggest difference between Edge Hill and my previous university. At Edge Hill, the teaching is genuinely student focused. Lecturers are approachable, patient, and always willing to help, even outside of lectures. That level of support is what helped me turn things around and thrive.

The whole campus feels welcoming and well-maintained, it really adds to the overall experience. The library and quiet green spaces offer a lovely environment to study or unwind in.

Receiving my graduate job offer at Cowgills accounting firm has definitely been a standout moment and a major step towards becoming a chartered accountant. It felt like everything I had worked for had paid off, especially after such a rocky start to my university journey. It was proof that second chances really do matter. I’ve accepted this graduate job offer as an Audit and Accounts Trainee, where I’ll be supported through my professional exams to become a chartered accountant. Thanks to the exemptions I’ve already gained during my degree, I feel well prepared with a head start. It’s exciting to see how the hard work at university is now opening doors for my future.

To someone considering this course, I would say don’t be afraid to ask for help! Edge Hill is the kind of university where people want you to succeed. The course is well structured, and the content is practical. Make use of the support, stay engaged in your modules, and take every opportunity to get hands-on experience, especially through the employability module. It really makes a difference.

The support I’ve received at Edge Hill has made all the difference. From academic guidance to personal encouragement, the staff are approachable, responsive and genuinely care. That’s not something I experienced at my previous university, and I truly believe it’s the reason I’ve come so far. Whether I needed help understanding a topic or just a bit or reassurance, someone was always there to help.