Lauren Buckley
Country Of Origin: United Kingdom
Degree: BSc Accounting and Finance (Industry), 2021
Tax Associate, EY
Why did you choose to study at LUMS?
In July 2016, I attended a two-day event at ¶¶ÒõAPPµ¼º½ about cyber security and coding, run by representatives from GCHQ. Talks were presented at various lecture theatres across campus, and LUMS particularly stood out to me as a creative environment to study.
What was the best thing about your course?
The support I received from LUMS staff was incredible. The feedback I received during mock assessment centres and interviews proved invaluable when applying for placements, and undoubtedly helped me get to where I am today.
What/who inspired you most at LUMS and why?
Dr Catherine Salzedo is an asset to LUMS. Right from the start, she was there to help. For example, I had never done accounting before university, and the additional help sessions Catherine arranged were incredibly helpful. Then, whilst on placement, I knew that if I needed to contact anyone for support, there was always a friendly face. She put up with my many, many questions across my four years at Lancaster, and she deserves a medal for that alone!
Did you do a project, placement or study abroad? What did this involve and what did you gain?
In 2019/20, I completed a 12-month placement at EY in London. Working in the tax department, I helped clients plan/manage their tax affairs in relation to their cross-border transactions. If anything, it made me realise that tax is actually incredibly complicated! But it was both insightful and rewarding in terms of the experience gained and people I met along the way.
Describe your time at LUMS in three words.
Challenging, rewarding, unforgettable.