Xinyi Yang - MSc Accounting and Finance
Due to it's strong academic reputation, international student Xinyi Yang sought to enhance her financial accounting knowledge by studying for an MSc in Accounting and Finance at Nottingham University Business School.
Xinyi Yang, an international student from China, studied MSc in Accounting and Finance at Nottingham University Business School in 2023-24. With a background in ACCA financial accounting, Xinyi sought to enhance her knowledge and align her studies with her future career aspirations.
The decision to study at the University of Nottingham was driven by the institution's strong academic reputation, high-quality teaching, and a vibrant community that supports both academic and personal growth.
“Nottingham University Business School has a good academic reputation and atmosphere, which created ideal learning conditions for my one-year postgraduate life. In addition, the community activities of the University of Nottingham were very diverse, which I found very beneficial." said Xinyi.
“I found the academic environment both supportive and intellectually stimulating, " Xinyi explained.
"I particularly enjoyed the module on Advanced Issues in Financial Accounting. This module stood out as me, due to its blend of numerical analysis and subjective textual analysis, which not only broadened my understanding but also taught me a way of thinking that transcends traditional learning. The approachability and expertise of the professors further enriched my learning experience.”
Xinyi's dissertation focused on the practice of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in China. Her work involved collecting and analysing sample data, which provided a practical application of the theoretical knowledge gained throughout her studies.
Xinyi added: “This project reinforced my academic skills and also prepared me for the quantitative and analytical challenges of my future career.”
In addition to her academic studies, Xinyi had the opportunity to get actively involved in various extracurricular activities. She frequently took part in economics experiments at the Cedex lab, driven by her interest in the relationship between individual behaviour and economic outcomes. These activities not only fuelled her intellectual curiosity but also offered financial compensation, adding a practical dimension to her involvement.
Xinyi also took on the role of Student Warden in her apartment. This position involved assisting the staff in managing and maintaining the apartment environment, which helped develop her leadership and organisational skills.
Xinyi's experience in Nottingham was characterised by a deep appreciation for the city's laid-back atmosphere. She was able to immerse herself in the local culture and customs, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The friendly and inclusive nature of the city's residents, coupled with the slower pace of life, made Nottingham an ideal place for Xinyi to live and study.
“My one year in Nottingham was a very comfortable and fulfilling experience. I experienced a culture and environment that was completely different from the first two decades of my life, and I was able to exercise my ability to live and study independently. This year was precious and unforgettable.”
Upon completing her MSc, Xinyi plans to return to China, using the rich academic and extracurricular experiences gained at the University of Nottingham as a strong foundation for her job search. Her goal is to find a position that aligns with her personal development goals, leveraging the knowledge and skills acquired during her postgraduate studies to advance her career in the field of accounting and finance.
To find out more about studying for an MSc at Nottingham University Business School, please visit our
MSc webpage.
