Helen is named as best in the year
AN accountancy graduate at Edge Hill University has been named the most outstanding student in her year group by the esteemed Liverpool Society of Chartered Accountants (LSCA).
Mature student Helen Wilkinson, 42, graduated in July of this year with a First-Class Honours degree in BSc Accountancy.
Helen, who lives in Chorley, has been recognised as the most impressive third year student by LSCA, which is the oldest society of chartered accountants in the country.
Top student Helen is no stranger to accolades, having previously received Edge Hill’s Academic Achievement Award at Levels 4 and 5.
Helen said: “I was absolutely over the moon when I received the email to say that I’d been awarded the prize.
“I’m immensely proud and honoured by what it means to be recognised by the LCSA.
“Everything that I’ve learned during my time at Edge Hill will help me to progress with a career in accountancy.
“Wherever my career takes me, there will always be an aspect of my work that will relate back to my time at University and the knowledge and skills I gained from my studies.”
The mum of two decided to apply for university after placing her career progression on hold to raise her children, while working part-time for an accountancy firm.
Helen said: “When I first began my studies, I felt very apprehensive because I wasn’t sure that I would be able to manage with juggling my studies and work-life balance.
“Looking back now, I’ve really grown in confidence and have learned so much about the accountancy industry.
“After completing my AAT qualifications around 12 years ago, I went on to have a family.
“It was at this time that I decided to focus on bringing up my children while continuing to work part-time in accountancy, putting any career progression on hold.
“I saw an opportunity to continue where I left off and to further my accountancy career by gaining the up-to-date knowledge and skills from the modules that Edge Hill offers.”
Her advice to other mature students considering applying to university is that it’s never too late to pursue your dream career.
Helen said: “It’s natural to feel apprehensive about starting something different but by challenging future yourself to work towards a degree, it can really put you in good stead and help you to progress in the future.
“If anyone was thinking of doing it, my advice would be to just go for it. It’s never too late.”
Looking ahead to the future, Helen is now hoping to land her first role in a finance department.
She added: “I’m hoping to secure a position in either a Government agency or the NHS, as I’d love to work within an organisation that gives something back to society and helps other people.”