Jason Howie

Profile

After spending a semester at our Dubai campus as part of the Go Global programme, Jason is getting ready for the next chapter of his journey as he prepares to join Grant Thornton on their Audit Graduate Programme.

What programme did you study and why did you choose it?

I studied MA (Hons) Accounting and Finance. My interest in accounting began during high school, where I studied Higher Accounting and discovered a genuine passion for the subject. This led me to pursue an HND in accounting at college, which opened the opportunity to fast-track directly into third year at university.

Despite the significant leap into third year, I was proud to achieve strong academic results, which were recognised through the Deputy Principal Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement. This award is given to students who achieve six or more A grades across their eight courses, and receiving it was a real honour. It gave me a boost of motivation that I carried into my final year, where I maintained similar results and ultimately graduated with a First-Class Honours degree.

How did it feel to receive the ICAS Charles Scott University Prize?

I was incredibly proud to receive the ICAS Charles Scott University Prize, awarded for the best dissertation across the MA Accounting and MA Accounting and Finance programmes. Although I had already secured a first-class degree, this award held special meaning for me as it reflected the dedication and long hours I had poured into producing my very first research paper. To have that effort recognised is something I will always treasure.

How has the University aided your professional and personal development?

Throughout my journey, Heriot-Watt University has played a vital role in my personal and professional development. The programme gave me a solid academic foundation in accounting, while the support from lecturers, careers advisers, and personal tutors helped shape my confidence and abilities. I am especially grateful to my dissertation supervisor, Professor Anees Farrukh, whose guidance was instrumental in helping me achieve my goals.

What’s your favourite / most memorable moment from your time as a Heriot-Watt student?

One of my favourite and most memorable experiences as a Heriot-Watt student was spending a semester at the Dubai campus through the Go Global programme. The opportunity to study abroad introduced me to new cultures, new ways of thinking, and an inspiring international community of students and staff. It was a transformative experience and one that I’ll always look back on fondly.

What advice do you have for current students?

My advice to current students would be to stay open-minded and embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it’s studying abroad, taking on a research project, or joining a new society, these experiences can shape your future in unexpected and amazing ways. Most importantly, believe in yourself. If you fully commit and give your best effort, there’s nothing you can’t achieve. Receiving the Charles Scott award for my first research paper is proof of that.

What are you planning to do after you graduate?

After graduation, I plan to take some time to travel before starting the next chapter of my journey. In September, I’ll be joining Grant Thornton on their Audit Graduate Programme, where I’ll be working towards becoming a Chartered Accountant with ICAS.