Nazia is an Accounting and Finance graduate from SOAS University of London. She secured a role on the ASPIRE Finance Programme at Baker Hughes in London, through Bright Network. 
First, please tell us a little about yourself.
“I’ve always been passionate about problem-solving, continuous learning, and making a meaningful impact in the world. My career path reflects this through my experiences in finance, business intelligence, and consulting, where I’ve developed strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
Growing up, I was drawn to roles that involved leadership and problem-solving, which evolved into a deep interest in business, sustainability, and digital transformation. My decision to attend university was driven by a desire to gain a strong foundation in finance and business while exploring different industries.
Studying Accounting and Finance at SOAS gave me a global perspective on financial systems and ESG principles, reinforcing my passion for data-driven decision-making and sustainability.”
What motivated you to apply for your role?
“I was motivated to apply to the programme at Baker Hughes because I was attracted to the company’s strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and energy transformation.
Baker Hughes is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge energy solutions, and I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to a company that’s driving the future of energy while maintaining a strong focus on financial excellence.
What specifically attracted me to this role is the rotational structure, as I wanted to gain hands-on experience across various finance functions, from financial planning and analysis to commercial finance.”
What was the application process like?
“To prepare, I reviewed my previous experiences in finance, business intelligence, and consulting, ensuring I could clearly demonstrate how my skills aligned with the programme’s objectives.
The most nerve-wracking part of the process was the interview, as I knew it would test both my technical knowledge and my problem-solving skills under pressure. To prepare, I used the STAR method to structure all my answers, ensuring they were strong and concise.
Throughout the journey, I sought feedback from mentors and peers, which helped me refine my answers and approach. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received was to focus on my unique strength, such as my ability to adapt, lead, and think critically, rather than trying to fit a perfect mould.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“I’m most proud of overcoming the many barriers I’ve faced, including several rejections in a difficult job market.
My interview also had several technical difficulties, so I’m proud that I was able to stay composed and still secure the role – especially considering they were only hiring two people for it!”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“One of my biggest tips would be to prepare for every possible question, using the STAR method.
Secondly, do your research – make sure you’re familiar with the company and its ethos.”
What have you learnt from going through the process?
“One thing that surprised me was the level of emphasis placed on problem-solving and adaptability during the interview, which reinforced the importance of thinking critically under pressure.
The process was slightly longer than I expected, but it gave me the opportunity to reflect on my strengths and refine my approach.
If I had to do it again, I would focus even more on industry trends and Baker Hughes’ strategic initiatives to tailor my answers further. Overall, the experience has strengthened my ability to approach challenges with confidence and structure my responses effectively.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I’m excited about the opportunities ahead – particularly the chance to develop my expertise and gain hands-on experience in the finance industry.
One of the aspects I’m most looking forward to is working on real-world challenges that contribute to sustainability and energy transition. I hope to continue developing my analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills while staying at the forefront of financial innovation.
Through mentorship, professional development programmes, and exposure to global markets, I aim to grow into a well-rounded finance professional who can make a meaningful impact in the industry.”
Find industrial placements, graduate jobs and more at Bright Network.
