A Warm Welcome for Accounting and Finance Postgraduates with Special Guest the Lord Mayor of Leeds

Leeds University Business School's Accounting and Finance Department welcomed new postgraduate students to an Induction Social Event on 25 September 2025, marking the start of an exciting journey.

The event opened with a special address from Councillor Dan Cohen, Lord Mayor of Leeds, alongside Professor Cathy Myles, Pro-Dean for Student Education, and Professor Konstantinos Bozos, Head of the Accounting and Finance Department. Together, they offered words of encouragement, urging students to embrace the opportunities ahead and make the most of their time at the University. Their messages highlighted the city’s proud tradition of diversity and innovation, as well as the Business School’s commitment to academic excellence and student experience, setting an inspiring tone for the afternoon.

Councillor Dan Cohen, Lord Mayor of Leeds, said:

Value your commonalities and differences – diversity is a strength. Be brave, step outside your comfort zone, and say yes to new opportunities during your time in Leeds, a vibrant city and major UK hub for finance, banking, and law.

Students then took part in a series of interactive activities designed to foster community and connection. Through live polls, they voted on the academic, personal growth, and career questions that mattered most to them, with staff providing immediate insights and guidance. In “Card to Future Me”, students reflected on their ambitions by writing personal goals and aspirations for the coming year, a creative exercise encouraging motivation and self-reflection. The event concluded with lively networking, where students began building the friendships and support networks that will carry them through their studies.

One student shared their impressions:

It was inspiring to hear from the Lord Mayor and take part in interactive activities with professors and classmates. I already feel part of the Accounting and Finance department community, and I’m excited about the year ahead.

The Induction Social Event was co-led by Dr Lu Qiao (A&F Deputy Director of Postgraduate Studies) and Dr Ali Altanlar (A&F Director of Postgraduate Studies), who worked alongside colleagues in the A&F Admin team to design and deliver the programme. Reflecting on the event, they highlighted its dual focus: welcoming new postgraduate students and giving them a voice and sense of belonging from the outset.

Dr Lu Qiao added:

This event was not only about welcoming our new postgraduate students, but also about giving them a voice and a sense of belonging from the very beginning. By engaging with the Lord Mayor, academic staff, and peers, our students start building both academic and personal connections that will support them throughout their studies.

The Induction Social Event was organised by the Accounting and Finance Department, with contributions from academic and professional staff. It reflects the Department’s ongoing commitment to supporting student success, ensuring that every postgraduate feels included, inspired, and ready to thrive at Leeds. The Department looks forward to supporting students as they progress through their studies and beyond.