Emma Spence

For Emma Spence, studying a Bachelor of Business at Waikato has opened doors she never imagined — including a career at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) in Auckland.

Emma’s passion for business began early. Her dad ran a seafood company, so she grew up surrounded by spreadsheets.

“At first, I just enjoyed the maths of it all, but over time I realised that business fascinates me far beyond the numbers. I love seeing how it drives innovation and contributes to society’s wellbeing.”

When choosing a university, Waikato struck the perfect balance for her between familiar and new.

“Everything being on one campus created a close-knit, community feel, and the staff were so welcoming that I felt right at home.”

“I’ll never get over how, in a university filled with thousands of students, not once did I ever feel like just another number. I had lecturers who all knew me by name, tutors who went above and beyond, and met some of my closest friends.”

Emma chose to major in Economics and Finance. During her degree, her favourite paper was ECONS102 Economics and Society, taught by Professor Michael Cameron.

“It’s still the best paper I’ve ever taken. It opened my eyes to the real-life impact of economic and financial theories and inspired my interest in working at the Reserve Bank.”

Through an internship at Deloitte, she gained valuable experience in data modelling, valuation, research and report writing. “It gave me a taste of the corporate world and helped me develop so many technical and interpersonal skills that still shape how I work today. I think it also played a big part in helping me land some amazing graduate role offers later on.”

Emma went on to complete a Master of Management Studies with First Class Honours (now called a Master of Business), specialising in Finance.

Now working as a Graduate Analyst in Prudential Supervision at the RBNZ, Emma helps monitor New Zealand’s banks and financial institutions to ensure they’re performing well.

“It’s incredibly rewarding knowing that I’m working for all New Zealanders — the people who rely on a strong, stable financial system,” she says.

Her role involves analysing financial data to identify risks, and developing policies to strengthen the banking sector. She also meets with senior leaders from major banks, including Waikato graduate Vittoria Shortt, CEO of ASB.

“These are incredibly accomplished people, yet what stands out most is how genuine and down-to-earth they are. It’s a great reminder that success doesn’t mean you have to change who you are.”

Reflecting on her career journey, Emma says the Bachelor of Business gave her the confidence and skills she needed to thrive.

“You’ll get out of this degree exactly what you put into it,” she says. “Waikato Management School is full of amazing opportunities, brilliant lecturers, and a support system that’s hard to beat.”