Meet our Accounting and Finance Tutor and Dept Personal Tutor Coordinator Sophie Little.

Describe yourself in 3 words 

Happy – I’m a glass-half-full person who likes to focus on the positives in any situation. 

Sociable – I love chatting to others and spending time with family and friends, which is very important to me. 

Organised – I like to be prepared at both home and work. Planning ahead helps me juggle work and home life and feel calmer day to day. 

What areas of Finance and Economics are you most passionate about? 

My background is in the Social Sciences rather than Accounting and Finance. I hold a BA (Hons) in Social Policy and Crime and an MA in Social Research. However, I have worked within the Finance and Economics department for the past 10 years and have taught on Business Environment and Personal and Professional Development. There is lots of cross over with subjects and transferrable knowledge/skills.  

I’m particularly passionate about teaching subjects that develop students’ analytical and reflective skills. “Soft skills” such as ethical judgement, communication and critical thinking are crucial to student success. 

What advice would you give to current students? 

Ask for help. University can be challenging at times, whether it’s settling in, preparing for exams or balancing competing demands. 

Manchester Met offers a wide range of support, including financial support, wellbeing and counselling services, study skills and careers advice. I would strongly encourage students to build a relationship with their Personal Tutor, not just in emergencies, but throughout their journey. Personal Tutors can support academic progress, belonging and career development. 

What do you enjoy most about teaching? 

I enjoy working with students and sharing knowledge in a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Watching students grow in confidence and ability over time is incredibly rewarding, especially seeing them graduate and celebrating their achievements. 

Fun fact about yourself 

This often surprises people who know me well… I used to be an air cadet. Although I never planned to join the armed forces, it was a fun and life-changing experience that helped build my confidence and develop key skills in independence, leadership and communication. I also got to fly planes!  

If you’d like to be involved in a future blog post, please do reach out: J.Reynolds@mmu.ac.uk