27 Jun 2012
Welcome to June's undergraduate newsletter
We hope you are looking forward to joining us soon and starting your Cass journey. Why not take a look at our guide in ‘Planning for university life: Accommodation, finance, visas and the start of term’ which outlines the key things to think about before starting life at university.
Excited about life in London? Read our article featuring all the things you could be experiencing soon while studying at Cass. Last but not least, as we all know university is about progressing yourself further to embark on a career your passionate about, remember we have a dedicated Career and Skills Development Service which you can take full advantage of from day one, find out more by taking a look at ‘Your route to career success’.
My first year at Cass
Hiren Gohil, Accounting & Finance
As soon as I confirmed Cass as my firm choice, I received lots of information from the Admissions team and the University, which helped me immensely and calmed my nerves before starting my studies. I participated in the Cass Buddy Scheme and was assigned a buddy/mentor who was in the year above and studying the same course. My buddy helped me a lot; shared her experiences, gave advice and even sold her text books to me at a good rate. This positive experience inspired me to volunteer to be a buddy for the following year.
The University sent me a freshers’ pack which had loads of information on freshers’ week and various events organised by the Students’ Union to welcome first years. The pack was very informative and had plenty of freebies and vouchers, such as restaurant discounts. I attended all the freshers’ events and it made me realise how diverse Cass is. I have met students from many different backgrounds and cultures, which I believe has really helped to enrich my knowledge and communicative skills.
The first year modules cover the basic principles of accounting and finance, and during this year I have developed my quantitative skills and gained an insight of the financial market and the economy. The lecturers are all experts in their own field and I would advise you to make the most of the help available. The choice of electives offered enables you to define your career journey and branch into any field.
The University sent me a freshers’ pack which had loads of information on freshers’ week and various events organised by the Students’ Union to welcome first years. The pack was very informative and had plenty of freebies and vouchers, such as restaurant discounts. I attended all the freshers’ events and it made me realise how diverse Cass is. I have met students from many different backgrounds and cultures, which I believe has really helped to enrich my knowledge and communicative skills.
The first year modules cover the basic principles of accounting and finance, and during this year I have developed my quantitative skills and gained an insight of the financial market and the economy. The lecturers are all experts in their own field and I would advise you to make the most of the help available. The choice of electives offered enables you to define your career journey and branch into any field.
At the beginning of the year one of my lecturers said that you have to work hard and play hard, meaning that together with academic learning you have got to participate in extra-curricular activities. Cass presents plenty of opportunities to develop your interpersonal skills through participating in the various clubs and societies which are on offer. I have been part of a number of societies and am an active member of the Hindu society, in which I was recently elected as a treasurer. As Cass is located close to the City of London and has very good links with various firms, there are ample networking opportunities available through society events. For example, I recently attended an event on private banking which was presented by the CEO of JPMorgan Private Bank.
Having just finished my first year of the Accounting and Finance course, I can say with full confidence that Cass has not disappointed me. It has provided a supportive environment and has equipped me with the fundamental knowledge required for my future.
Having just finished my first year of the Accounting and Finance course, I can say with full confidence that Cass has not disappointed me. It has provided a supportive environment and has equipped me with the fundamental knowledge required for my future.
A warm welcome to Cass
The Course Directors for the Business Studies, Management and Actuarial Science programmes at Cass personally welcome you to the School and current students give an insight into their experiences.
BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science:
Dr Jaap Spreeuw, Course Director
I am one of the two Course Directors for BSc Actuarial Science. In particular, I deal with some matters affecting Part 2 and Part 3 students. I oversee the process of allocating final year project students to their supervisors, and I also teach some core modules of the degree. It is a pleasure for me to be in charge of a degree involving so many diligent teaching staff.
Umeeta, Year 1
Umeeta, Year 1
The brilliance with which Cass professors amalgamate current problems in the financial and insurance industries with actuarial theory and concepts, has made my learning process more vivid and interesting. It has given me an insight into the practicality of actuarial science and I am looking forward to applying these skills in real life situations when I graduate!
BSc (Hons) Business Studies: Dr Joanna Zaleska, Course Director
Welcome to the Cass BSc Business Studies programme. I look forward to meeting you in September. Our degree provides a solid foundation in all aspects of Business Studies, equipping you with the diverse knowledge and varied skills required for success in business today. Our programme provides the flexibility that allows our students to go on to a wide range of careers. The programme is challenging, but those up for the challenge will find it stimulating and rewarding.
Anna Belven, Year 2
Integrating lectures and material with current market conditions as well as considering students’ opinions, the Business Studies course at Cass always feels highly relevant and has provided me with skills and practices I need to face the global business world with confidence. Being given challenging tasks and interesting topics keeps us students motivated and focused.
BSc (Hons) Management:
Dr Misha Hebel, Course Director
Hello and welcome to this very special BSc Management programme. Why do I think it is special? Well for a start, it embodies a systems thinking approach which considers the connections, relationships and synergies as important as business functions. This approach is rarely found on undergraduate degrees and will give you a head start in the workplace. Secondly, it is special because of the students who come from all over the world, with their many different perspectives and skills. This makes the programme an all round learning experience for teachers as well as students. And finally it is special because of the team of lecturers who teach a range of sophisticated research and analysis techniques that leave our students well equipped to tackle most eventualities. So prepare yourself for some hard work but do so confident in the knowledge that the more you contribute the more you will get out of the course.
Lowe Sporre, Year 2
I like BSc Management because it gives me a broad business foundation and useful tools to solve business problems and make decisions. The methods we learn are useful to entrepreneurs, management consultants, and anyone else who wants to improve a business. I have discussed models from my degree in interviews at companies such as PwC and realised that what we learn is really used in industry. I have friends on the course going into work at all kinds of firms, and I have experienced how strong a reputation Cass has amongst top employers.
Planning for university life: Accommodation, finance, visas and the start of term
Accommodation & Finance
Before starting university you will need to confirm your accommodation and finances. For more information about City University London accommodation, please click on the following link: http://www.city.ac.uk/study-at-city/undergraduate/accommodation/halls-of-residence or call +44 (0)20 7040 7040.
It is best to apply for loans and bursaries early to ensure that any money available to you is ready for the start of term. You should also set up a bank account.
Further information:
Home applicants: http://www.slc.co.uk/
EU applicants: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/StudentsFromOtherEUCountries/index.htm
International applicants: http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/fees_student_support.php
If you have been sent a Fee Status Questionnaire by the University it is very important that you complete and return this as any delay in doing so will prevent you from completing your registration at the start of term.
Registration and Tuition Fees
During the summer all Unconditional Firm applicants will receive an email from City University inviting them to register online. Please note you will not be sent this email until you have an Unconditional Firm offer.
All registration for 2012 entry should be completed online before joining City. The registration process includes confirming your contact and course details, and paying your tuition fees.
You have the option of paying your first year tuition fee in full, or to pay 50% and set up an instalment agreement whereby you pay the remaining 50% on a set date during the academic year. The 2012 tuition fee will be £9,000 for Home and EU students and £12,500 for International and ELQ students.
Further information on fees is available at:
http://www.city.ac.uk/finance/student_info/payingfees.html
Student visas
CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) numbers will be issued for all Unconditional Firm International applicants. These are produced by the University electronically and sent directly to the UK Border Agency. You will need to include this information when you make your visa application.
International applicants holding an Unconditional Firm offer will receive an email from the University explaining how to apply for a CAS number. Once this is has been completed you will receive an electronic CAS statement by email, which will include your unique CAS number.
For further information about obtaining a visa, please go to the following link:
http://www.city.ac.uk/international/international-students/international-student-advice/before-you-leave-home/obtaining-a-visa
If you have an enquiry about your CAS number please contact our Central Admissions Office at: ugadmissions@city.ac.uk.
Start of term and Pre-sessional Maths dates
The first day of term will be Monday 24 September. The first week is known as Induction Week during which you will be expected to attend various introductory sessions to learn more about your course, as well as social events to meet other students at Cass and collect your university ID card. Formal teaching starts from Monday 1 October.
If you have registered for the Pre-sessional Maths course this will take place from Wednesday 12 September until Friday 21 September.
2013 Deferrals
If you have applied for deferred 2013 entry you will continue to receive the Cass post offer newsletter from January next year, and will be sent information on the start of term and registration during summer 2013. You are also welcome to contact the team for any queries you might have about your offer at cassug@city.ac.uk.
Your route to career success
If you are interested in finding a part time or temporary job while you study – always a help if finance is tight – then our Unitemps service is just what you need. We are given details of jobs in the University and also with other employers, so call in to our office when you start your course and register your interest. The experience you can gain from part time jobs can only add to your CV, and you’ll earn money too.
Meanwhile, picture yourself in 5 years time. What are you doing? How can you ensure that your dreams become reality? Whether you see yourself lying on a beach, running your own business, continuing to study or earning good money in your dream job this won’t happen without careful forward planning. Getting a degree does not in itself guarantee success. Happily, we are here to help guide you. We have resources and people who can support and advise you as you progress through your studies and towards your goal.
Our career consultants not only understand the job market for students completing degrees, they have experience of working in industry including recruiting university graduates. That’s practical experience and knowledge you can tap into. You can see what we offer on our website www.city.ac.uk/careers . Some areas are for current students, but there’s still plenty you can access.
Why not look at the examples of jobs and further study that previous Cass Business School students have chosen to move into when they finished their degree? http://www.city.ac.uk/careers/for-students-and-recent-graduates/destinations-of-city-graduates .
Many employers come to City University London because they recognise the quality of our students. From the beginning of term, you will find a packed programme of events on offer and first years are welcome. First up is the Banking Finance and Consultancy Fair, sponsored by Ernst and Young who are attending alongside Bank of England, HSBC, Mercer, PricewaterhouseCoopers and many more. Our popular employability programme – a weekly lunchtime briefing from a guest employer – includes Goldman Sachs covering interviews, Bloomberg revealing how to network and IBM on cracking selection tests.
Enjoy your summer and we hope to see you soon!
Laura Hooke - Career Consultant, City University London
Cass the UK’s No.2 in Guardian University Guide 2013
According to the Guide, which ranks all UK universities by undergraduate teaching excellence, an impressive 92% of Cass students were satisfied with their course.
The Guide's Business and Management Studies rankings table covers business studies, management studies, finance, accounting, marketing, human resource management and business and administrative studies.
Cliff Oswick, Deputy Dean of the Undergraduate Programme, comments: "We are delighted to see Cass rising to number two in the UK in the Guardian's influential University Guide. This is a confirmation of both our academic excellence and the outstanding student experience that Cass undergraduates enjoy."
London life
In the local areas of Islington, Clerkenwell and Shoreditch close to Northampton Square, where the Cass undergraduate programme is based, you will find a huge variety of bars, pubs, cinemas, arts centres and restaurants offering food from a multitude of cultures. Their diverse range means that there is something for everyone.
“When I moved to London I was amazed! Not by the big fancy clubs or the posh bars in the West end but by the diversity and creativity. At the University campus, you are within walking distance of the City with its amazing skyscrapers and its fancy pubs with chandeliers, but after another five minutes walk you end up in Shoreditch with its individual cafes, bars, markets and creative stores!”
- Bjorn Olsson, BSc Business Studies
Essential services such as supermarkets and banks as well as numerous high-street shops and street markets can be found in the local area of Islington.
A short bus or tube ride away, Covent Garden, Oxford Street and Carnaby Street house some of the most famous stores in Europe. In London's West End you will find theatres offering a wide range of famous shows plus jazz clubs, comedy clubs and some of the best restaurants in the UK. Heading north, Camden has a thriving music scene with many live music venues and a popular market. For sport fans, Arsenal FC’s Emirates Stadium is a couple of stops away on the tube, and the 2012 Olympics will take place close by in East London!
London has a reputation for being expensive, but as a student you will benefit from a wide range of concessions including a 30% discount on travel, cheap entry to club nights and cinemas and discounts in clothing stores. Entry is free to many museums and galleries and London is full of parks and open spaces.
There is definitely something for everyone in London and, whilst we can’t guarantee the weather, we can guarantee a wealth of opportunity and diversity.
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