Q:What are you studying at D'Amore-McKim and when do you plan to graduate?
A:I plan to graduate in the summer of 2019 from the full-time MS in Taxation Program. I have accepted a full-time offer from PricewaterhouseCoopers in Boston and will be a tax associate in the Industry Tax Practice team.
Q:Why did you choose D'Amore-McKim?
A:I chose D'Amore-McKim because it fit all my wants as a prospective student, and it has been recognized as a top school nationally for its MS in Taxation program. My class sizes are smaller in scale, yet still maintain a strong level of diversity that cultivates a more cohesive and engaged classroom experience. Aside from the classroom experience, being in Boston with some of the world's largest and most innovative companies was another large factor in my decision. The relationships D'Amore-McKim has built with these companies through Cooperative Education programs bridges the gap between firms and prospective students.
Q:What skills are you building at D'Amore-McKim and, in the MST program specifically, that you will use in your future career?
A:At D'Amore-McKim, I am constantly building my intellectual, personal, and professional skills. Through technical taxation research, I am able to find answers to real-world problems. My professors encourage me to use creative thinking in my work and research to find innovative solutions. Aside from research skills, I am advancing my communication skills by delivering answers in the form of memos, papers, and presentations. In addition, the MST program allows me to practice perseverance, as the program is challenging, yet rewarding. The skills I am honing at D'Amore-McKim will be invaluable to my future career.
Q:Is it important to you that your professors have real-world taxation experience?
A:It is extremely important to me that my professors bring their real-world taxation experience into the classroom because it creates a dynamic learning environment. Every professor I have had in the MS in Taxation program at D'Amore-McKim has brought real-world experience into the classroom. When I use examples from professors to explain tax-related topics and issues, it allows me to gain credibility and build trust with my clients.
Q:What would you say to a prospective student considering D'Amore-McKim for their business degree?
A:The Full-Time MS in Taxation program is the strongest and most efficient way to kick off your career in taxation. As the program is completed in about a year, I begin my career in taxation with a strong foundation that will set me apart from others. I highly recommend the program to prospective students and working professionals who are looking to develop their skills and obtain a wealth of knowledge in many areas of taxation. With the option to take electives in the program, you can create a unique specialization geared towards your desired career goals. In addition, I now have the 150-credit-hour requirement for the CPA certificate, and a degree that builds credibility.
Q:Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
A:In 5 years, I see myself working at a Big Four accounting firm in Boston, specializing in taxation. I still have many avenues in taxation to explore, but I plan on focusing my interests toward Corporations or Partnerships. I also plan to receive my CPA license. Long-term, I see myself continuing to work in public accounting for another firm or starting my own practice.