About Tarrah
Previous University: St. Lawrence University
Q: Why did you choose D'Amore-McKim for graduate school?
A: As an undergraduate at St. Lawrence University, something that was instilled in me was its alumni foundation. The strength of the alumni network at D'Amore-McKim was important to me and how willing they are to connect with the prospective and current students. The internship component was also hugely influential in my decision-making process because it can set you on a professional trajectory.
Q: You pursued an Alpine ski career while you were going to St. Lawrence University. Where does skiing fit into your life these days? What's your favorite spot?
A: These days, skiing is primarily an outlet and an opportunity to fuel the soul. I'm not doing so much racing lately, but I'm doing more backcountry skiing which has been fun. My favorite place to ski in New England is Sugarbush; I went to school near there, but I've also had the chance to ski in the Swiss Alps, and they're awesome.
Q: Your sister received her MS in Accounting/MBA from D'Amore-McKim. How did her experience play into your consideration of D'Amore-McKim for graduate school?
A: My sister Ali graduated in 2021. Her experience differed slightly from mine because she was a student during the COVID pandemic, and her program was completely remote. During this time, I got a glimpse into her experience and her close-knit cohort. After her graduation, I saw her career trajectory and the success that has followed from her experience.
My original inspiration in accounting is that I'd grown up with seeing my dad, who is a CPA in Canada, and the positive impact that he has had on his clients throughout his career. I think it's so interesting, all that you can do–you can go into different industries and find your passion and apply your skills in a lot of different facets of accounting.
Q: Where do you envision going with your career?
A: I'm starting to go into public accounting, and I'll be there for a while. I think it's awesome to get perspective and to find your passion within that, whether it's an industry, a group of people, or something else. I know I'm within the scope of what I want to do, and I'm looking forward to it.
Q: How has your corporate residency experience prepared you for your professional career?
A: My corporate residency was in the Trust Solutions practice at PwC. I worked primarily with one client, where I got exposure to both public and private accounting and auditing processes. During my three months there, I met many D'Amore-McKim alumni and networked within PwC. I received a full-time offer and plan to go back full-time in September as a first-year associate.
This experience helped me understand the broader framework of accounting and deepen my knowledge of the industry. I worked in a company with many different areas and diverse staff members. I was able to ask questions and learn through doing. Before my corporate residency, I had an idea of where I wanted my career to go, and this experience helped me to see the full scope of the field and my options. I'm excited to take what I've learned from this experience and put it into practice.
Q: Tell me about the community at D'Amore-McKim and your cohort.
A: The community at D'Amore-McKim is probably my favorite part of the program. On my first day, I was blown away by the variety of student backgrounds in my cohort. We have all been able to learn from each other. I benefit by asking my classmates for help and in turn, help them learn in areas where I am more comfortable and confident. I think that being vulnerable, sharing with each other, and helping each other along the way has been hugely impactful for us all.
Networking with alumni has also been impactful. They return to campus, and we can ask questions and learn about their experiences, knowing they've walked the same steps we're currently taking. It's been really amazing to see where I, as a student, can go and how close-knit alumni cohorts are.
Q: What advice would you share with future students?
A: I would say to be open and to be excited for new challenges, because D'Amore-Kim definitely allows you to grow. D'Amore-McKim offers a safe environment where you can push yourself to grow. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and make the most of it.
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