About Elizabeth
Previous Degree: BS in Mathematics and a Minor in Studio Arts
Previous University: Stonehill College
Q: How did your interest in math lead you to accounting?
A: Math had always been my favorite subject, and I loved its theoretical side—even when the concepts didn't have immediate real-world applications. My older brother studied accounting, so I was familiar with the field, but hadn't seriously considered it as a career. As senior year approached, I weighed my options: pursuing a Ph.D. in math, going to law school like my siblings, or exploring a path that fit my strengths in a more practical way.
Around that time, a recruiter visited my Real Analysis class and introduced the D'Amore-McKim MS in Accounting/MBA program. The combination of accounting expertise and an MBA was compelling, especially since I didn't have business experience. At a Stonehill College career event, I met an EY representative and Stonehill alum who helped me see how the program could shape my future and even guided me through the application process.
When I compared my options, the choice was clear—a math Ph.D. could take five to seven years, but this 15-month program offered two degrees, a corporate residency, and a direct path to a full-time job. It was exactly the right fit for my goals.
Q: How was it working in a Big Four firm for three months?
A: My corporate residency at KPMG was an incredible experience that ultimately led to a full-time job offer. I worked in their asset management department as a tax intern during busy season, focusing on hedge funds and private equity. The work was fast-paced and hands-on. I handled client letters, roll forwards, and filing federal and state extensions. One of the highlights was assisting with K-1 and K-3 forms for individual investors, which showed my team's confidence in me.
My corporate residency was everything I could have hoped for. My KPMG team was smart, supportive, and dedicated to my growth. From day one, they treated me like a full team member. I received a full-time offer, a rewarding validation of my hard work.
Q: Did you feel prepared for your corporate residency?
A: The D'Amore-McKim team provided immense support before the residency began. Securing a Big Four internship was monumental for someone like me without an accounting background. I had a pathway to success that included resumé reviews, practice interviews, and networking opportunities.
Q: What's next for you after graduation?
A: After graduation, my immediate goal is to study for the CPA exam. The program's coursework closely aligns with the CPA exam material, making the past 15 months excellent preparation.
In January, I'll begin my role as a tax associate at KPMG, where I plan to be deeply engaged in networking and relationship building. I know firsthand how valuable connections are because recruiters and professionals from EY supported me along the way. I hope to pay that forward by mentoring future students at D'Amore-McKim and helping them build the connections that will shape their careers.
Q: What advice would you share?
A: You can achieve anything you put your mind to. This program will challenge you but also help you grow in ways you might not expect. Take time to recognize your progress and the skills you have gained. When you look back, you will be amazed at how much you have accomplished and how prepared you are for the next chapter.
Reflecting now, just weeks from graduating, I secured my corporate residency within five months and a job offer within ten months of starting the program. This clear timeline and path to a career is exactly what I needed and is definitely worthwhile.
