Published on 30 November 2022
Just over one year ago, Raliat Ize Bamgbose made the life-changing decision to travel more than 4,000 miles from her home in Nigeria to study an International Business Management degree at the University of Sunderland.
And this bold career decision has paid off – for Raliat has not only graduated with a Distinction today (Wednesday 30 November), but she has also landed her dream job working as a Business Consulting Associate at the global accountancy firm Ernst & Young (EY).
Based in the company’s Newcastle office, Raliat's role involves driving innovative solutions that improve growth, profitability and efficiency for businesses.
The 37-year-old, who moved to South Shields with her husband and three children, said: “I can’t even explain the feeling. When I applied to study here I hoped to get a job at a multinational company - it’s a dream come true.
“All my plans have fallen into place and my hard work has paid off. I am really enjoying my new job.”
So how did Raliat end up studying at Sunderland?
“I was very impressed by the University’s high employability rate as well as its reputation for cultural difference and its high acceptance of international students,” she said.
“I moved from my comfort zone in Nigeria which was a big deal for me.
“Everyone at the University was so welcoming and helpful. My course tutors have been wonderful.”
Raliat is among hundreds of Sunderland students graduating over three days at the city’s Stadium of Light this week.
Programme Leader for International Business Management at the University of Sunderland, Mohan Namasivayam, said: “Raliat’s dedication and hard work have paid off and I am excited that she has secured an ‘Associate’ job with EY, a big step in her future success.
“I admire Raliat’s focused approach and determination to do well in her studies and other extracurricular activities.”
Max Vaseckis, Senior Business Consultant at EY, said: "Raliat joined us in October and has settled in really well. She has joined a new and exciting part of the business - Go To Market Team – supporting with the creation of new marketing presentations and engagement proposals for the business.
“Raliat has already made some valuable contributions to the team and has also got involved in promoting EY to the next generation of consultants. Great start Raliat!"