From Asia to America in one degree

Profile on: Anusha Lewis
BSc Banking and Finance graduate,
Canada

Moving to a new continent while studying for a degree is a common challenge for External Programme students. For BSc Banking and Finance graduate Anusha Lewis, this major life-change gave her the impetus she needed to gain a 2.1 as an independent student and the skills she demonstrated clearly impressed employers.

"Employers are certainly impressed that my qualification comes from the University of London – London, England, not London Canada! – and I've just accepted a position at Scotiabank. I've also won a place on an MBA programme and eventually I would like to move into a more specialist area of banking such as investment management."

"Having started in my native Sri Lanka, I completed my studies in Canada," says the 26 year old. "Previously in Sri Lanka I had been going to a tutor every weekend. In Canada I had to rely on myself. But as I no longer had any classes, I could study when it suited me and I really enjoyed the flexibility."
Anusha began work at ANZ Grindlays Bank in Colombo. To progress her career, she decided to gain a qualification that would complement her work experience.
"Options for degree courses in Sri Lanka were limited at that time. I wanted a degree from a recognised and high quality university – so the University of London's

External Programme was ideal." Fortunately, the flexibility of the programme meant that Anusha's move to Ottawa did not affect her degree, even though she was now studying independently.

"It was quite a challenge preparing for exams by myself, but after my first attempt I felt I had a better grip on things. Studying alone by using the subject guides and other materials is not impossible; it just requires self-discipline, perseverance and good time management."

Anusha made good use of the Student to Student network. "I was able to communicate with other students and share ideas and notes through the online discussion forums."
And after four years, she completed the degree with a 2.1. "My friends in Sri Lanka were amazed that I had managed to achieve such a good grade studying by myself. At times I was totally frustrated, but the flexibility taught me complete self-reliance."