The most outstanding accountancy student of 2009 is the University of Bolton's Louise Evans, says the Institute of Financial Accountants.
The organisation awarded Louise, who graduated with a First in Accountancy this summer, its Outstanding Student of the Year award at a ceremony in London last month.
Now Louise, from Radcliffe, is looking for a job – and she is determined to work in accountancy practice.
'I want to get out there and prove I can do it. I feel I have more to give. I definitely want to do my chartered exams,' said Louise.
'I keep sending out my CV and I know a First and this award make me stand out, but I just can't wait to put all I've learned into practice. I know how much I have to offer.'
Louise has demonstrated gritted determination on her road to academic success. Nine years ago, as a single parent, she took her first steps to a career in accountancy with an open learning course, where she studied at home.
She went on to successfully pass her Association of Accountancy Technician qualification and when she was ready to take on a degree she contacted the University of Bolton.
Now remarried and a mother of three, Louise said juggling childcare duties and degree-level study was tough.
'I always regretted not doing a degree when I was 18, said 38-year-old, Louise. 'But it just wasn't possible then. Then I started a family and that took priority. I admit I had no idea how hard it was going to be but I just worked hard. At nights I just got the kids to bed and hit the books.'
Louise's hard work was of such a high standard she was the only accountancy student to graduate from the University with a First this summer.
The judging panel for IFA Outstanding Student of the Year included IFA Chief Executive, David Woodgate, Kevin Kinsella from Kinsella Tax, Gina Hall from Vantis plc and Nicole Johnson from Wolters Kluwer. There were also representatives from the Forum for Private Business, Lloyds TSB, Companies House, the National Enterprise Network, theInternational Association for Educational and Vocational Guidance and DoYCI.
Jenny McDowell, External Affairs Manager for Lloyds TSB – Commercial commented on judging the Outstanding Student of the Year award. 'Outstanding student really does mean outstanding, not just technically, that's just for starters. They have also gone the extra mile, displaying desire, determination and dedication in pursuit of their goal.'
Louise was nominated for the IFA award by the University's Bolton Business School Professional Practice academic leader, Julie England. Said Julie: 'We're very proud of Louise. This is a prestigious award which recognises what an exceptional student she has been.
'Just getting to the shortlist would be considered a great achievement, but her drive, talent and commitment to succeed have undoubtedly contributed to singling her out as Outstanding Student of the Year.
'It's a tough jobs market out there just now, and I know Louise is still looking for a start in practice. Louise would be an asset to any organisation that she joined - her enthusiasm for accountancy and the outstanding qualities that she displayed during her time at university augur well for her future success and we're expecting to hear great things about her as her career progresses.'
Dragons' Den investor Theo Paphitis was also among those receiving an award at the event in October. His was for contributing to UK Enterprise Award, for his outstanding support of small business owners and entrepreneurs.
The Institute of Financial Accountants was established in 1916 and is the oldest body of non Chartered Accountants in the world. It represents members and students in more than 80 countries, providing qualifications for those wishing to work in financial management and accountancy and continuous professional development for qualified Financial Accountants. The Institute sets technical and ethical standards for its members. The Institute is an Associate Member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) - the global body setting professional standards and regulating accountants around the world.
Designed to share good practice, celebrate finance and enterprise and highlight positive role models, the Awards ceremony was held at London's Kensington Roof Gardens on 14 October.
Pictured is Louise, second left, with Julie Meyer, Leading Champions for Entrepreneurship Europe; David Hunt, IFA President and Jack Mansfield of Companies House.