From econ major to KPMG audit associate

Q: Tell us about your background.   

A: I was born in South Korea and moved to the US when I was six, settling in the Bronx, New York. My career trajectory was firmly set toward finance until a single accounting course in my final semester completely changed my path. I was immediately drawn to the quantitative and problem-solving aspects of accounting; they felt like solving a complex puzzle, and that really appealed to me.

Q: Why did you pursue your MS in Accounting/MBA at D'Amore-McKim?

A: When I first started looking into graduate programs, I wasn't sure I'd find one that made sense for my unconventional path into accounting. I hadn't planned on going to grad school. In fact, I wasn't even sure it was possible to break into the field without a traditional background. But then I came across the MS in Accounting/MBA program at D'Amore-McKim, and everything clicked. 

What stood out right away was how thoughtfully the program was designed for people making a career pivot, like me. It didn't require an accounting degree, but it offered a rigorous curriculum tailored for the CPA exam, an opportunity for a paid corporate residency, and a dual-degree structure that felt like a launchpad instead of a detour. That mix gave me the confidence to go for it. 

Q: Describe your corporate residency at KPMG. 

A: During my three-month corporate residency at KPMG, I had the opportunity to dive headfirst into the intensity of the busy season as an audit intern. Rotating across four different engagement teams in the commercial sector, I gained a panoramic view of the audit process and firsthand exposure to a variety of client environments. Each team had its own rhythm and challenges, which pushed me to adapt quickly and contribute meaningfully. 

I was entrusted with key audit procedures that went beyond surface-level tasks. My work had a real impact, and that sense of ownership was incredibly motivating. Being on-site with clients also allowed me to build deeper relationships with my colleagues and understand the collaborative nature of audit work. Despite the fast pace and long hours, I never felt like “just an intern.” I was treated as a valued team member, and that experience solidified my confidence in pursuing a career in public accounting.

Q: How did your coursework help prepare you for your corporate residency?

A: Right before my residency, I took an audit class, which gave me a solid foundation in auditing principles and procedures. Before that, I only had a general sense of what audit work entailed, but the class helped me understand the technical details and real-world application of audits. It was especially useful during my residency because I could follow conversations with senior associates and managers, ask informed questions, and understand the context behind their guidance. 

My MBA courses emphasized presentation skills and class discussions, areas I had not been confident in before. During my corporate residency, I had to clearly communicate my work and ask questions in team meetings. The experience built my confidence and improved my communication skills. 

Q: Was the career support helpful? 

A: Yes, I definitely felt supported throughout the program. The staff were always in close contact with partners and recruiters from the Big Four and other major accounting firms, which really helped me navigate the corporate residency interview process with confidence. 

At first, networking was pretty intimidating for me because I've always been more on the reserved side. But the career support team picked up on that right away and offered workshops, practice networking events, and mock sessions with current students and alumni. Those experiences helped me build confidence, get more comfortable talking with professionals, and feel ready for real networking situations. Their support made a huge difference and ultimately helped me secure my corporate residency. 

Q: What's next for you after graduation? 

A: I have accepted a full-time offer to return to KPMG as an Audit Associate in the Boston office, a position that grew out of my corporate residency experience. I'll be starting in the fall, and in the meantime, I'm focused on preparing for the CPA exam. I've already taken the FAR section, and everything on it was covered throughout my courses, which gives me confidence that my education has set me up for success on the remaining three exams. 

Q: What advice would you share with future students? 

A: First, be fully invested in your classes. Accounting builds on itself, and what you learn will carry into the CPA exams and your career. Second, network. Whether it's classmates, professors, or professionals, those connections are invaluable. Finally, keep an open mind. I came in certain I'd pursue tax, but staying flexible led me to discover that audit was a much better fit for me.