Student Highlights
Mixing theory and practical experience to understand accounting in the real world

Having grown up in an international tourist centre in Sichuan Province, China, Hannah Zhang was keen to experience living and studying amongst the buzz and excitement of Sydney. And with aspirations of a career as a professional auditor, studying a Master of Professional Accounting (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle’s Sydney campus ticked all the boxes.

“When it comes to accounting, many people think about it in terms of numbers and math. But this is an old stereotype in my opinion,” said Hannah.

“I love the design of my study program, because we’re not only required to complete core courses which teach us the basics of accounting, we are also offered the option of choosing from many elective courses which give us a better understanding of the framework of business administration.

“I want to become a professional auditor in the future. By becoming an auditor, I can visit different clients in different industries and understand how they run their businesses. I can combine my professional knowledge with client statistics to test the integrity of their financial reports.”

Hannah says the degree offers the ideal mix of theory and practical experience—and connections with industry—to set her up for success in the professional world. She is currently completing a paid internship in the audit team with global accountancy network Moore Stephens.

“The (practical) experiences have given me the opportunity to understand accounting in the real world. As sometimes the only Chinese person in an organisation, they have also taught me how to communicate and collaborate with people from different backgrounds.”

Living in a new city can be daunting, but the strong support network offered by the University and staff has allowed Hannah to relax and enjoy her new home.

“All the staff and lecturers are willing to offer help and always encourage students to speak up and ask questions.

“Wherever I go, I know that the University is there to provide help and guidance. It is not only a place that gives me professional knowledge, it’s also a place that boosts my confidence and has helped me trust myself and do better and better.”

With graduation around the corner, Hannah says undertaking this degree in Australia has been more than just career-defining.

“I can strongly recommend the University of Newcastle as a perfect choice for many international students. I feel that these past two-and-a-half years have totally changed my life.”

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Study Professional Accounting (Advanced)

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Hannah Zhang

With aspirations of a career as a professional auditor, studying a Master of Professional Accounting (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle’s Sydney campus ticked all the boxes for Hannah.

I love the design of my study program, because we’re not only required to complete core courses which teach us the basics of accounting, we are also offered the option of choosing from many elective courses which give us a better understanding of the framework of business administration.