Havva's Story

Havva Lara Lupu

Finance and Accounting BSc (Hons)

Putting aside fears and taking the leap

Despite harbouring a desire to achieve big things in the financial services industry, Havva was long afflicted with a fear of public speaking.

“A friend from my sixth form college recommended University College Birmingham and after looking at the course I knew it was for me,” she said.

“The fear of failing was real, but I knew I was good at maths and a career in the industry really called to me, so I took the plunge.”

While studying, Havva was encouraged by lecturers to overcome her fears and fully embrace the opportunities presented by access to speakers and workshops offered by industry leaders such as Handelsbanken.

“They helped me to open up and discover new strengths I didn’t realise I had. It forced me to grasp every chance and really set me on the path I’m on now.”

“Once I stepped out of my comfort zone everything came to me. The University offers so much more help to students than you might think before you join,” she said.

Havva has already taken a summer internship as a trainee financial analyst and is waiting to hear on roles with JP Morgan. She plans to study for a postgraduate degree followed by a role in governance after she graduates, but for now she's relishing the opportunities she’s been emboldened to grasp with both hands:

“Don’t be afraid to fail. Taking the chance can give you what you’ve always wanted.”

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