When Waikato University student Daniel Stevenson finishes his management studies degree he’ll be heading for Sydney to work for Deutsche Bank.
The 21 year old, once head boy at Cambridge High School, was one of 900 applicants chasing a handful of positions being offered by the bank.
Stevenson has majored in strategic management and finance for his Bachelor of Management Studies (Hons) but he completed some extra human resource papers too, because he thought they may be useful. When he gets to Sydney he’ll be working in the corporate banking and finance. As part of his induction he’ll be spending time in London and New York.
He thinks there are several reasons why he’s been successful in securing a much sought after position. “I’m passionate and driven, and prepared to give things a go, I’ve chosen subjects that are vital to business success, and what I’ve learnt through my study at Waikato has been relevant and up to date.” He says strategy and finance are a good combination – they complement each other – and are perfect for a career in the banking industry.
Stevenson studied science at school and came to university intending to study law and social sciences. But after taking one economics paper, he decided management was for him. “So I jumped ship and never looked back. Waikato Management School gave me a passion for business, and during my four years study I’ve taken every opportunity to get different experiences.”
Last year Stevenson was part of Waikato University’s case competition team, a group of strategic management students who challenge other university teams in a business strategy competition, and this year he’s a team member and co-coach of the Waikato side. They won the first round and head to Canterbury later this month for round two. “The case competition is one of the best things that I’ve have had a chance to do at the management school. The practical experience is invaluable and I believe has been a big part of my success.”
An able athlete and rugby player, Daniel Stevenson came to Waikato on a Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship. His study fees were paid, he received specialist coaching in his chosen sport and had special leadership training. During his time at Waikato he was a student ambassador for the Management School and University.
He begins his new job in February.