Dominic Viadero, MS in Accounting/MBA'12, is taking over our Instagram account @damoremckim this week to share his experience in our Master in Accounting/Master of Business Administration program. Follow along!
Q: What has your career path looked like so far?
My early years in college, and the fact that I couldn't decide on a major until my junior year, should have been an indicator that my career would keep me on the move. Ernst & Young is my second go around in public accounting after spending five years with John Hancock Investments, and almost two with KPMG before that. As much as I love talking about my time in the Master of Accounting/Master of Business Administration program, I always enjoy talking to students and other young professionals about my post-graduation career path and what has led to all my different roles. I hope it shows that there is no standard template to be followed to reach your career goals, and that many times it can be the road less traveled that gets you to where you want to be.
Q: Where did you attend school for your undergraduate degree and what did you major in?
I received a BA in Mathematics from Stonehill College in 2011.
Q: Why the MS in Accounting/MBA program?
During my senior year at Stonehill, knowing I would only be leaving with a BA, I accepted that graduate school was in my future. With a background in mathematics, I considered several higher math programs, but was drawn to the MS in Accounting/MBA program after attending an on-campus information session. A session, I must admit, I only attended as extra-credit for a math class. One of my professors, Professor Hsu, encouraged his entire class to attend the session, and enticed us with extra-credit to ensure we all showed up. Luckily, I took the bait. I went in with an open mind and was immediately hooked. While I majored in mathematics, I explored several different intellectual paths with my eclectic course selection and was at a point where I was trying to figure out the best use of the knowledge base I was developing. This is one of the reasons this this program was perfect for me. With an analytical background and interest in business and accounting, I knew I would have the ability to shine with my unique skillset. It is such an amazing program and it would never have struck me as a realistic opportunity had I not attended this session.
Q: What skills from your undergrad major have you been able to apply to your post-grad career?
Before settling into mathematics, I took courses in psychology, art history, film, criminal justice, astronomy and literature. While I will always admit I am an analytical person and settling on math was the best place for me to end up, my adventures through all these different areas certainly helped me develop a new way to approach problems, interact with colleagues, discuss ideas, and advocate for myself. The skills that I developed during my time at Stonehill always seem to keep coming up and in places where I would not expect it. They are skills I rely on now and will throughout my entire career.
Q: Where's the most fun place you've had to travel to for work?
During my internship, the KPMG Boston interns were chosen to represent the firm in New Orleans for a week of volunteer work around the city. It was a great opportunity to meet firm leadership, network with interns from other offices, learn about the city, and give back in a unique and meaningful way.
Q: What surprised you the most about the industry or what's a stereotype that you've found to be untrue?
I think everyone needs to try erase the picture that first comes to mind when they hear the word “accountant.” More often these roles do not fit the old stereotypes. They continue to evolve with changing technology and continue to push for better work-life-balance.
These changes are one of the reasons why I chose to come back to public accounting. Firms provide countless resources to grow, develop, and take ownership of your career by including resources and opportunities for learning outside of a normal day in tax or audit. Now more than ever in tax, we are rethinking our roles and what we hope the profession will look like in the future.
Q: What do you think the future of the accounting industry looks like?
The role of technology and data are the driving forces of change. Clients are asking for more data, more quickly, and at a lower cost. It is forcing us to rethink the way we work, and much of our time is spent trying to develop the tax function of the future. The fun part is not only figuring out ways to incorporate new technologies into our everyday activities, but what is the new value we can provide to our clients with all the extra time created.
The industry is at an inflection point. Not only are firms continuing to work through changes put into place with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 they are rethinking the way we work. I am excited to be able to help guide this transformation; the new professionals entering the field will be integral in this change process.
Q: What's your favorite memory for your time in the program?
My favorite memories are from the classroom. My professors, fellow classmates, and the entire office created such a welcoming learning environment. It is certainly a grueling program at times, but everyone wants to see you succeed and are willing to help in any way to do so. I would also say the network that you join upon starting this program is such a valuable asset. Starting with the initial networking brunch, the number of people you'll meet with ties to the program and university is endless. All those who have come before you want to see you succeed and will be great resources for you during and after the program.