Finance and Investment - MSc

Hartanto Ng

As a person who was hungry for knowledge, especially in finance, I decided to pursue a master degree. Having studied in Indonesia, Canada, China and the USA before, I am open to international exposures. I chose Europe as my next destination for education because it was different from what I had been exposed to and would provide me with new points of view. The UK became one of my top choices to study because of its developed financial market.
Bristol straight away became one of my favourite universities because of its high ranking, rigorous curriculum and prestige. Unlike finance programs in other universities, the program at Bristol does not require previous finance background, which was an advantage to me.

I was excited for my first day at Bristol. The first time I arrived at the university, I was surprised at the hilly roads that led to the campus. I found it quite tiring at the beginning to climb everyday just to get to my classes, especially that I am not very fond of physical exercises. Nonetheless, walking has helped me shape a healthier lifestyle. I usually go around the city walking, thanks to the close proximity between places.

One of the things I like most about the university is its small-sized classes. Interactions are more “customized”. Professors know students’ name and try to help wherever they can. For example, when I fell sick, one of my professors emailed me asking whether I was feeling alright. Thanks to the small sized classes too that it was faster for me to meet new people. With the diverse population at the university, I am able to practice my Mandarin with my Chinese friends, exchange customs and traditions and hang out with people from different countries, such as Vietnam and Pakistan.

Last but not least, what I like most about Bristol is the university’s belief that it is important to hear students’ voices. The university tries its best to hear feedback from the students to improve itself. As a course representative, I collect student’s feedback and voice them to the department. This is a new experience, which teaches me to actively express opinions to others to give constructive feedback to the greater community.

I am glad that I have come to Bristol and I recommend anyone who wants to get the best out of their university life to come here too.