Linzi Gao

Originally from China, Linzi Gao is loving her new life in New Zealand, and works as an assistant accountant at Downer NZ in Auckland. Her goal is to become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant one day.

Waikato’s Master in Professional Accounting was a quick and efficient way to gain the practical industry knowledge she needed to find relevant employment, says Linzi, as it took only 14 months of intensive study to complete.

"The MPAcct degree is challenging, but it’s definitely worth it in the end. The students at Waikato Management School are very future-oriented and full of energy to accept new challenges. I was constantly inspired by my peers."

Linzi says she felt confident the course teaching would be of a high standard, as it's run by Waikato Management School, which has an "excellent international reputation", she says.

One of the standout assignments for her was financial management. “The paper is very practical and I loved Dr Mary Low’s teaching style. The way she teaches is fun, inspiring and intellectually stimulating."

Linzi says she really enjoyed her time studying at Waikato University, and encourages other international students to get involved with the active student life on campus.

"Make the most of your time at university by participating in student clubs and meeting new people."

"The employer networking events organised by Waikato Management School Students’ Association were awesome. They enabled me to meet experienced professionals from companies such as PwC and KPMG and learn more about their graduate accounting programmes."

"I found Hamilton to be a very good city to live and study in. It is conveniently close to tourist attractions such as Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton.”