Stevie Foenander

“Studying at Glasgow Caledonian University turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made as an international student.”

Those are the words of Stevie Foenander, who graduated from Glasgow Caledonian in Summer 2024 with an MSc in Risk Management. Now, he’s working as a Trainee Accountant at the very beginning of an exciting career, but Stevie says he owes much of his success to the university where it all began.

“I chose Glasgow Caledonian University because it offered the degree program I was looking for, and I liked that it is designed to be very career-focused, with lots of practical experience and placements built into it. That hands-on approach was important to me for getting real-world skills.

“Glasgow Caledonian’s focus on social justice, sustainability, and making a positive impact on the community really resonated with me.

“On top of that, the University has amazing facilities, like high-tech labs, modern libraries, and great student services, all of which I knew would help me get the most out of my time there.”

One of Stevie’s favourite parts of his experience was getting to meet students from all around the world.

“The diverse community allowed me to learn about various cultures and perspectives, making my time at GCU both enriching and eye-opening. This cultural immersion helped me grow personally, giving me a broader understanding of the world.”

Another highlight was getting the opportunity to attend the Airmic Annual Risk Conference 2024 in Edinburgh and completing the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification along with the MSC programme.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry professionals and gain insights into the latest trends in risk management. This experience gave me valuable industry exposure and practical knowledge, which complemented my academic studies perfectly.”

Stevie is keen to acknowledge the support and encouragement he received from faculty and staff at Glasgow Caledonian.

“The teachings and guidance from lecturers and professors had a huge impact on my education. Their support was invaluable. Additionally, working closely with faculty, as well as participating in group projects, also allowed me to build a network and gain a deeper understanding of the industry.

“These experiences not only enhanced my learning but helped me develop essential skills and connections that have greatly informed my future career path and prepared me for employment.”

Stevie’s goal after graduating was to become an auditor or accountant. Now, thanks to the training he received at Glasgow Caledonian, he’s already taking the first steps towards his dream job.

“I was fortunate to secure a permanent position as a Trainee Accountant in an audit and consultancy firm less than a week after graduation. This opportunity will allow me to gain hands-on experience in the field and continue working towards my goal of becoming a fully qualified Chartered Accountant.”

Stevie’s advice for current students is to be proactive in finding employment, especially while studying.

“Actively participate in networking events. Building connections within the industry can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable insights from professionals who have been where you are.

“Take the time to study and understand the job market. Do some research on what skills are in demand and what employers are looking for. This will help you tailor your learning and prepare you to stand out when applying for roles.”