Testimonials from previous students and graduation photos
‘I had a wonderful mentoring experience. I am sure not many of the students are privileged to have so. I did not realise how effective a mentor could be until I had my first meeting with Gillian. Unlimited support, fruitful advice, insightful subject knowledge, prompt replies and the list continues. I felt she was just an email away from me. Selecting a mentor is critical to passing the OBU project and I am lucky that I got it right.’
Md Polash Ahmed, France – Successful first attempt awarded BSc Applied Accounting May 2019
Gillian demonstrated genuine personal interest and passion about our engagement. She contributed with valuable suggestions and motivated me with her enthusiasm to take the extra step. Her guidance and constructive feedback challenged me to dig deeper into my field of research. She made the overall experience a pleasant and unforgettable journey!
Elena Dourou, Malta, MBA dissertation [submitted June 2018]
” I passed the dissertation at last. Thanks are due to you for your kind, great guidance and encouragements. I would have given up long before! The dissertation is very challenging for me and I am proud of my completing my MBA under your great guidance and encouragements”
Larry Jia, China
Gillian was my supervisor [mentor] on a dissertation to an MBA in Oxford Brookes University.. From the first encounter, I found Gillian very open and approachable person. She was punctual and well prepared for meetings. She was fully committed and equally engaged in the project. Listening patiently was her special quality which motivated me in all our conversations. She created conducive environment for dialogue. She was notifying me her schedules in advance and was willing to adjust to my convenience. She simplified her ideas to the level of my understanding. Through the process, she equipped me with essential capability to carry out the research and made me confident and focused. She was always there for me with positive attitude and constructive feedbacks, directed me to relevant literatures and data sources to further support the research. She thought me how to analyze and interpret data and visually represent to reinforce my arguments. I learned to keep the coherence of findings, data and literature review in order to provide the right perspective to the research outcome.
It was an unforgettable experience that encouraged me to envision better future and aspire for higher career opportunities. She is highly responsible and caring. Gillian was the right person to supervise me and I was so grateful of what she. I have no words to express my gratitude. I truly believe she has a lot to offer to anyone doing research and aiming at professional growth and career advancement.
Anteneh Abate
FCCA, Association of Certified Chartered Accountants
MBA, Oxford Brookes University – MBA dissertation – Distinction [submitted 2018]
“Gillian thank you for your help! Without your support and inspiration I would never have passed that terrible work”
Oleh Bazaliiskyi, Ukraine, MBA dissertation [submitted 2018]
“I previously failed my first attempt on topic 16 [using a different mentor]: I felt that my previous mentor was not familiar with the marking scheme and the support I received was very limited. In particular Gillian is very familiar with the Oxford Brookes BSc Applied Accounting marking scheme and was able to provide valid feedback throughout in terms of research structure, research methods, accounting knowledge and writing skills etc. I felt that my progress ran smoothly and benefited from the structured support I received from Gillian, who was very approachable and thorough during our mentorship. I am very grateful that I was recommended to approach Gillian for supporting my resubmission.
Sam G, BSc Applied Accounting student, UK
“Dear Gillian, It was an honour to be your student. I really enjoyed your Corporate governance class”
Ghadeer Abu Al-Shawareb, Jordan, MSc June 2018
“After failing my previous submission, I felt I needed to find myself a mentor that would actually be able to answer all my questions and queries, as well as support me on my journey to the BSc in Applied Accounting, in Lorraine I found just that.
After previous disappointments I inevitably began to question myself and my own ability, but crucially she came along and gave me the belief that I could achieve this degree.
Her ability to explain technical issues and support me with my queries were outstanding, in particular I had specific queries regarding referencing which previous mentors were unable to clarify or provide definitive answers to, but this was no longer an issue once I met Lorraine, as thanks to her vast experience in Academia, she knew exactly what she was talking about and was exceptionally good at sharing that knowledge.
If you want a first-class mentor that is extremely approachable and brilliant at what they do, then you need a mentor like Lorraine.
My only regret is not finding Lorraine in time for my first attempt, as I could have avoided resubmission had I worked with her in the first place!”
Patrick Roach, BSc Applied Accounting Topic 8
“I cannot recommend Lorraine McKechnie or Absolute Mentoring enough. My experience has been fantastic from start to finish.
As someone who has never completed a piece of academic writing before, the RAP was at first a daunting task and a different challenge to taking ACCA exams. As soon as I had the initial meeting with Lorraine, I knew she would be able to support and guide me through this process. I felt reassured and it instilled a confidence and belief that passing the RAP would be achievable.
The review of the RAP project and subsequent feedback via email and during our mentoring sessions was invaluable and really gave me a different perspective of my work. This enabled me to go away and really focus on what was needed and expected by the marker.
Lorraine always came back to emails very quickly, was always very professional and I believe she goes above and beyond for every student who is lucky enough to be mentored by her.
My sincere thanks go to Lorraine, as I was able to pass topic 8 with a grade A on my first attempt. Lorriane was fundamental in enabling me to achieve this and I honestly do not think I would have passed without her help, guidance and support”
Anna Charles BSc Applied Accounting – A Grade
“I was able to pass my RAP on topic 5 in the very first attempt and the credit goes to Ms. Lorraine. At the beginning I was quite unsure about the project. But from our very first meeting she guided me on the process and encouraged me to take an extra step because of which I had the confidence that I would pass. Her clear and constructive feedback made me realize my mistakes and challenged me to dig deeper into my research analysis and methods. Even on times when I was unable to attend a meeting, she was very understanding and flexible. She continuously emphasised on referencing since it was something I was new to. I do believe selecting a good mentor is vital for passing and I’m happy I got it right. Being a former marker herself, she knows exactly what the markers are looking for.
It was a wonderful experience to be her mentee and I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor. Thank you once again Ms. Lorraine for your advice and motivation.“
Tamrin, BSc Applied Accounting, Topic 5
“I’m thrilled to write this testimonial to express my appreciation for the support and guidance I received from Lorraine McKechnie at Absolute Mentoring. With her help, I passed the RAP on my attempt during Period 46. My journey with Lorraine began in Period 45. Although I had a thorough plan, I couldn’t complete my work before the November 2022 deadline.
Initially, it was a bit embarrassing for me to admit that I couldn’t meet the Period 45 deadline. However, Lorraine was understanding and supportive without passing any judgment. When I reached out to her about my situation, she readily agreed to hold meetings to accommodate my needs. She displayed unwavering patience and a genuine dedication to helping me succeed. Her guidance played a role in restoring my confidence and overcoming the obstacles that hindered my progress in Period 45.
Thanks to Lorraine’s mentorship, not only did I manage to catch up, but I also finished strong during Period 46. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend Lorraine McKechnie from Absolute Mentoring as a mentor for anyone in need.”
Abigail, BSc Applied Accounting, Topic 5
“I passed my OBU RAP on my first attempt in Period 46. Lorraine McKechnie from Absolute Mentoring, my Mentor throughout the research project, was instrumental in guiding me from a vague topic choice to a successfully completed project. She provided invaluable guidance on selecting a suitable industry and company, ensuring a strong start. Lorraine’s professionalism and commitment were exceptional, going beyond the minimum requirements to offer thorough support. Our meetings were unhurried, with detailed reviews and constructive feedback on my drafts. Her expertise and insight were crucial for project success, and I firmly believe, I would not have passed without her mentorship.
I wholeheartedly recommend her as a mentor for the OBU research project.”
Carine, BSc Applied Accounting, Topic 8
“Passed. I would like to sincerely thank my mentor, Lorraine, from Absolute Mentoring for her professionalism and support in mentoring me to achieve a First class degree honours, on the first attempt.”
Yogesh, BSc Applied Accounting, Topic 5
“Much thanks and appreciation to Lorraine McKechnie at absolute mentoring. She took my request with very little time to go, and ensured that I was able to pass on my first attempt with a 2nd class upper for period 45.
For anyone who’s interested in applying for the next session, I’d highly recommend their services. Only other thing I’d add is that it’s important to start early so try reaching out to them in good time.
I was comparing an early draft of my work to the final submission and the difference was frankly remarkable. The team at absolute mentoring has a lot of experience and can really help you fine tune your submission to target your desired grade.
Thank you Lorraine!“
Erdu, BSc Applied Accounting, Topic 4
“For all those doing the RAP, please read this:
A friend recommended me Lorraine McKechnie as my mentor and because of her guidance, I passed the RAP! For anyone looking for a mentor, please go to her, she has experience and is truly amazing! She changed my perspective and approach towards the RAP, and was always encouraging and understanding! She also provided really insightful feedback. Please look no further, she is the best!!“
Zahra, BSc Applied Accounting, Topic 5
” I achieved an A in the BSc (Hons) Applied Accounting research project and a First overall. Having Lorraine as a Mentor is pivotal in keeping the project to the point and on task. She was attentive and showed an interest in the project matter. Her ability to ask the right questions and to challenge the project content and research methods was exactly what was needed from a Mentor. Lorraine’s knowledge of the marking criteria, expected project style and report format was exemplary and definitely provides confidence when writing the report.
Overall, I could not recommend Lorraine enough”.
Giles Wright, BSc Applied Accounting – A Grade Topic 8
“As a mentor of my research project, I decided to work with Lorraine McKechnie. She helped me a lot to produce quality and successful research report.
During the entire period of preparation of the OBU RAP, she repeatedly checked my report, highlighting the spots for the further development of my OBU RAP.
She is not only a professional mentor, but also an excellent interlocutor. She is very kind and always devotes more than enough time to discuss the project with her mentees. Each meeting with her is full of useful recommendations. In the end, my OBU RAP was awarded A Grade.
Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my gratitude to Lorraine McKechnie. Without her appropriate instructions, I would not have been able to produce such a successful research project. She has vast experience which is highly appreciated by all mentees. I wish her success in future OBU RAPs with other candidates.”
Begzod Rakhmanov, BSc Applied Accounting – A Grade Topic 18
“Undertaking a piece of academic writing with tight time constraints seemed a daunting challenge. I shouldn’t have worried! Lorraine was a fantastic guide, offering advice and insight. I could not have asked for a better mentor throughout the process.”
Peter Price, BSc Applied Accounting Topic 18
“Working with Lorraine was a complete pleasure and vital in me passing the RAP. From the first introductory call we had a good rapport and clearly established a plan of attack for the project. I happened to be working to a tight deadline due to timings for my professional exams so having a mentor who was flexible with her timings and exact in the requirements needed was vital. What was especially useful, was where there were parts to improve on, and the explanation of where I was going wrong with parts of my writing style or analysis.
The overall process could’ve been a lot more stressful but with the help of Lorraine, I actually quite enjoyed the process and achieved my goal. Highly recommend!”
Saqeeb Howlader, BSc Applied Accounting Topic 6
“Dr. McKechnie had been extremely valuable in helping me pass my OBU RAP. I don’t think the mentor-student relationship could have been any better! She was always on time, professional and dedicated as much time as needed in our meetings. I felt that she cared. She helped me look at my work from a marker’s perspective. I would definitely recommend her as a mentor to any student seeking high quality guidance.”
Rana Al-Munshi, BSc Applied Accounting Topic 8
“When I found Lorraine, I was working on my resubmission paper. I was anxious and confused. At our first meeting she explained my failed essay’s feedback as a former marker’s perspective. This meeting cleared my confusion. I understand the marker wanted to know how I thought not what I did. This was quite helpful when I struggled to put my material together under the time pressure.
She always responded so quickly. Sometimes, I wonder which time zone she was in.
Overall, I think her feedback was constructive and clear. She is a competent and responsible mentor. I wish I had her as my mentor for my first submission.”
Jian Wei, BSc Applied Accounting Topic 8
“Lorraine helped me to find direction and to develop the RAP within the project that I had already work on in my first submission; she was also very clear about the addressing the comment given by my first submission as well as elements that she thought needed more work. No one enjoys receiving criticism, but Lorraine’s suggestions were clear, and accurate, and to-the-point. She was never prescriptive, we worked and discussed together to find out what I wanted to do and needed to get my message across. Of course, none of this is a guarantee of success, and you have to be prepared to do the work. I’m extremely grateful to her and would recommend the experience highly.”
Galvin Seah, BSc Applied Accounting Topic 18