Certificate in Financial Studies (CeFS)
Dorian Williams
Financial Skills Academy case study: Dorian Williams
Dorian Williams is a former student of the Financial Skills Academy, and is now studying for a BSE Economics degree at Royal Holloway University.
Dorian said his life has changed since studying at the Financial Skills Academy. “In the last two years my life has taken a different direction: when I was 18 I wasn’t doing anything in life. Now I am studying for a degree and doing a course in Securities and Investment.”
Dorian was attracted to The Skills Academy courses because he liked the idea of the courses and wanted to learn how to control his finances. “I wanted to do a professional qualification because I would like to work in finance in the future, and I loved the idea of learning how I could be in control of my finances. Since being on the course I now manage a £30,000 student loan.”
Dorian said, “There are many opportunities that are opened up whilst studying on the courses. For example, we had a tour of The Head Office of HSBC and met the Head of Islamic Banking … “It was brilliant being on the course and there was lots of variety and not only reading things from text books.”
Over the summer Dorian was on a work placement at the Financial Services Authority. “The 4-week work placement at the FSA was brilliant! It looks great on my CV, and I have made many friends. They have asked me to go back this summer. I have gained a lot of confidence, as the staff at the FSA were really friendly and encouraging. Working at the FSA made me think that one day I could be one of these professionals. I think it was a platform for me, as many of the people who I study with at university have no work experience. I feel a lot more prepared and feel confident about the future.”
Whilst studying at The Skills Academy Dorian had a mentor who helped him through his studies. Dorian says, “I had a mentor and we are still in contact, although I have finished the course. She has become my closest friend and is the first person I think of turning to if I need any help.” Dorian said that he couldn’t have achieved all he had without the help, motivation and support she gave him throughout his studies. “I will never forget all the work she has done. The skills she has given me will no doubt put me in good standing, as she helped me with practically everything, from choosing universities and setting up finance, to helping me on my personal statement and open day visits.”
Dorian’s aspirations have changed since being involved in The Financial Skills Academy: “Before I studied the financial courses I wanted to become an actor. Now I would like to work in Investment Banking, or work at the FSA where I can help promote consumer rights. In the future, I would like to give something back to the community and help somebody in the way that I have been helped by The Skills Academy.”