Niamh Goldie’s journey with the ICAS Foundation highlights the programme’s life-changing support for aspiring accountants from low-income backgrounds.
22 year old Niamh, from Dunbar first discovered the ICAS Foundation after accepting her offer to study MA (Hons) Accountancy & Finance at Heriot-Watt University. “I first found out about the ICAS Foundation Programme through my university's bursary page, and it really stood out because of the amazing support it offers,” she shared.
Initially a little daunted by the application process, Niamh soon found it to be more of an opportunity to share her aspirations and goals. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “The interview was such a positive experience—it felt more like a conversation where I could share my goals and learn about what a career as a CA could offer.” The process became a welcoming step in her journey, providing her with confidence and clarity about her future path.
One of the standout aspects of Niamh’s experience was the mentorship she received from Chris Sliman, an Associate Director at RSM UK. “Chris was an incredible mentor—he guided me through coursework challenges, helped with my dissertation data collection, and gave me brilliant advice on internships and career options,” Niamh said. His mentorship played a key role in her academic and professional growth.
Through connecting with a network of industry professionals, another benefit of being an ICAS Foundation student, Niamh realised that working in industry would provide her with a broader perspective on finance. She secured an 8-week internship at M&G Plc in summer 2023, gaining hands-on experience in sustainability, financial, and technical reporting, and presenting to the Senior Leadership Team. “The internship was such a great experience—it really helped me see how everything I’d learned at university applies in the real world of financial services,” she reflected. Following this, she joined M&G’s graduate scheme and is now pursuing her ICAS exams.
For Niamh, being an ICAS Foundation student means having a strong support network. “The Foundation is amazing at staying in touch and offering support whenever it’s needed,” she said. When she needed more responses for her dissertation data collection, the Foundation shared her survey with a network of CAs, significantly enhancing her project’s scope. “Their regular progress reports really helped to address things like the cost-of-living challenges and navigating post-COVID difficulties,” she added.
Looking back, Niamh credits the ICAS Foundation with giving her the financial freedom to focus on her studies without the added strain of a part-time job during term time. “Not having to juggle a part-time job during term time made such a difference—it meant I could give my all to my studies and do my best at university,” she noted. As she progresses through her ICAS exams and graduate programme, Niamh’s gratitude for the dual support of mentorship and financial assistance remains strong.
Niamh’s advice for prospective ICAS Foundation applicants is simple: “Just go for it! The mix of mentorship and financial support made such a huge difference—it helped me learn so much and took a lot of the financial pressure off while studying in Edinburgh.”
Niamh’s experience with the ICAS Foundation exemplifies the power of tailored financial and professional support. “Being part of the ICAS Foundation means knowing there’s a fantastic support network behind you every step of the way,” she affirmed. Her journey from university to a promising career in industry reflects the Foundation’s commitment to empowering students and creating a diverse, inclusive accountancy profession.