Waksh Awais

Since graduating in 2024, Dr Waksh Awais has stayed in academia, working as a lecturer at Aston University. He attributes his time at Kent as being instrumental in helping him propel his career forward.

What is your current job role, where are you located, what does your company/organisation do, and what do you enjoy about it?

Currently I work as a lecturer in Accounting at Aston University, Birmingham. My role involves research and teaching both of which I love.  

Were you a UK or international student? If international, which is your home country?

I was in the UK as an international student when I first came to Kent. I came from Pakistan. Although, I did my masters at Queen Mary University London, I came back from Pakistan to do a PhD at Kent and that was as an international student.

What does a typical working day look like for you?

Typically my day at work involves doing some research work (depending on research projects at that time), some teaching work this could be lectures, marking or other admin work. And usually I do find time to read an article/book/magazine before I finish my day at work.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

An important highlight for me was switching jobs after I finished my PhD at Kent. I worked at Sheffield Hallam University but then changed jobs to Aston University which has been the most recent highlight.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

Kent was a lovely place and my time there has been very nice. I built some lifelong connections and friends which have helped me in my academic career. I believe the mentorship I got from my supervisors has helped me a lot to go forward in my career. 

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

For students who want to come into the same type of career, my best advice would be only to come if they really enjoy it. Research at times can be extremely demanding but at the same time if you enjoy it, it can be really interesting. Also in this career there is a lot of opportunities to network such as at conferences and other research events. So prospective students should make sure to socialise and build connections.

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes I am still in touch with my supervisors from Kent and also my friends. The community at Kent is very friendly and welcoming.

What are your future ambitions?

My future plan is go stay in academia and develop myself as an international scholar in the critical accounting field.