Q:Why did you choose D'Amore-McKim?
A:I chose D'Amore-McKim because of its prestigious reputation, alumni network, and distinguished faculty. In addition, the accelerated-nature of the program allowed me to start working seven months after obtaining my bachelor's degree. Before starting work, I also wanted to pass as many sections of the CPA exam as possible. When I enrolled in the program, I knew I was going to receive a quality education that would prepare me to pass the CPA exam and build a long, successful career.
Q:What skills are you building at D'Amore-McKim that you will use in your future career?
A:During my classes in the MSA program, I've gained valuable experience working in teams, sharpening my presentation and writing skills, developing an analytical mindset, and using technology. These skills, in combination with core accounting and business knowledge, will help me continue to develop into a well-rounded professional.
Q:How has the abbreviated, 7-month length of the program benefitted your career progression?
A:One of the biggest reasons I chose D'Amore-McKim for my MSA degree was the accelerated nature of the program. Since incoming hires at Big-4 firms must be 150-credit compliant before starting full-time, I wanted to meet this requirement quickly, so I could start working as soon as possible. It also allowed me to reach my goal of becoming a CPA much sooner than if I attended a longer program. Even though the curriculum is challenging, it is extremely rewarding to look back at how much I have learned in such a short period of time.
Q:Is it important to you that your professors have real-world accounting experience?
A:One of the unique parts of the MSA curriculum is that the professors teaching in the program have relevant real-world accounting experience. Learning from a textbook is very different than learning from professors who can add their own personal experiences and advice. During lectures, team projects and presentations, professors give us a taste of what to expect when we start working. There is so much to learn about accounting and business, but the real-world experience allows professors to focus on teaching us the most important and relevant concepts.
Q:What would you say to a prospective student considering D'Amore-McKim for their accounting degree?
A:The education that you will receive at Northeastern will prepare you for whatever path you choose in the accounting world. Each day, professors will challenge you to be your best. If you don't understand a concept, they will do everything in their power to help and correct your mistakes. One of the other unique parts of being an MSA student at Northeastern is that it is a cohort program. All of my peers in the program are enduring the same challenge, which has created a bond between all of us. The relationships you build in your cohort will propel you through the program and benefit you when building your alumni network in the future.
Q:Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
A:Due to the variety of opportunities available for accountants, I can't pinpoint where my career will take me in the coming years. However, I am looking forward to starting my career at PwC in the risk assurance practice. From there, I see myself gaining my CPA license and building my career in Boston. I hope to gain as much experience and knowledge from my peers as I can, so I can move into a leadership role. Wherever I am in the future, I want to be in a dynamic environment that challenges me to grow and build meaningful relationships.