This week, six alumni of the D'Amore-McKim School of Business Graduate School of Professional Accounting (GSPA) combined degree Master's in Accounting/Master's in Business Administration program are taking over our Instagram account to give us an inside look at their experiences post-graduation. Designed in partnership with leading accounting firms, this program enables learners to succeed in the accounting industry with little to no experience prior to enrollment. During their 15 months of study, learners gain in-depth work experience through a three-month corporate residency, immediately applying what they learn in the classroom to the world of work.
Ranging in graduation years from 1996 to 2019, these alumni have both experienced the accounting industry and watched it change over time. With a newly added concentration in Business Analytics at D'Amore-McKim, we're continuing to prepare our community for the digital transformations currently taking place in businesses on a global scale.
Read more about their experiences below and don't miss their takeover this week!
Shawn Hanrahan, MSA/MBA'02. Photo by Adam Glanzman. 
Betsy Jacobson, MSA/MBA'14. Photo by Adam Glanzman. 
Joshua Rouse, MSA/MBA'17. Photo by Adam Glanzman. 
Samuel Smalley, MSA/MBA'19. Photo by Adam Glanzman. 
Dominic Viadero, MSA/MBA'12. Photo by Adam Glanzman. 
Pamela Yang, MSA/MBA'96. Photo by Adam Glanzman.
What do you think the future of accounting looks like?
“Technology will continue to redefine how we do things, but we can't take for granted the softer skills and human skills that continue to be needed. Accountants need the ability to build strong relationships with clients and coworkers.“
Shawn Hanrahan, MS in Accounting/MBA'02
Audit & Assurance Managing Director, Deloitte & Touche LLP
What surprised you the most about the industry or what's a stereotype that you've found to be untrue?
“A lot of people think accountants are all introverted, number-crunchers. The truth is, to be a successful accountant you need to have great interpersonal skills, think creatively, and manage teams on a day-to-day basis.”
Betsy Jacobson, MS in Accounting/MBA'14
Accounting Manager, MineralTree. Inc.
What advice would you give students just starting the program?
“Enjoy the process. New students often want to get right into the corporate residency, learn what it's like working at the firms, or even begin counting down the days until graduation. While those are all very important aspects of the program, I would recommend enjoying the experience for all that it offers. Those 15 months fly by fast, so take advantage of them.“
Joshua Rouse, MS in Accounting/MBA'17
Tax Consultant, Deloitte
What skills from your undergraduate major have you been able to apply to your post-graduate career?
“I was a music major as an undergraduate student which often surprises people. Music is most beautiful when the performance is greater than the sum of its parts. The work my team and I do at PwC reflects this. Although we perform and produce our own bits of work individually, our ultimate goal is always the same. Effective teams realize their work is the sum of all individual efforts.“
Samuel Smalley, MS in Accounting/MBA'19
Assurance Associate, PwC
What's your favorite memory from your time in the program?
“My professors, fellow classmates, and the entire GSPA team created such a welcoming learning environment. Just as everyone within the program wants to see you succeed, all those who have come before you want the same too.“
Dominic Viadero, MS in Accounting/MBA'12
Tax Manager, EY
What has your career path looked like so far?
“My experience at Northeastern changed my career. I had planned to become a French literature scholar and professor, but the GSPA broadened my horizons and I now lead a team of 30 professionals, managing assets for over 200 clients at State Street Global Advisors.“
Pamela Yang, MS in Accounting/MBA'96
Head of Charitable Asset Management, State Street Global Advisors