It’s September which can only mean one thing- the new beginning of another university year. The dust (sand) from the summer has settled, course books have been purchased and people have been reacquainted through the usual fresher’s weeks antics.
For this week’s blog we thought we would talk to two budding future accountants, Ciaran & Jessica, to get their perspective on their subject choices and international career prospects.
Jessica has just started her 2nd year as an accountancy and finance student, whilst Ciaran is about to embark on his final year at university. So how do their views differ?
What made you want to choose to study accountancy & finance?
Jessica: I studied Accounting in 5th year at school and I found it really interesting, so it was a no-brainer when choosing what to study at university.
Ciaran: I didn’t really know what I wanted to do to begin with, I just knew accountancy & finance was a solid investment as a subject with a clear career path. Did international opportunities in the future impact your university or subject choice?
Jessica:
International opportunities are easily available and regularly suggested at university, so I am glad that I have the option to go abroad if I wish to do so in the future. However, this didn’t have a great influence on my decision on where I chose to study.
Ciaran: My university has a lot of international ties so that did definitely impact my choice. When I chose accountancy & finance I did so knowing that it was a universal subject that could be very useful for a career at home or abroad.
Which country would you most like to work in and why?
experience the fast-paced life of an accountant living in the City. I’ve been down to visit a few friends there already and love the place!
Ciaran: Most of the people I know who’ve left to go abroad have recommended Australia or New Zealand, so I’d probably go out there to travel for a year after I’ve finished with my degree, then see what I think.
Jessica: Luckily I’m only starting second year so have plenty of time to still decide what I want to specialise in.
Ciaran: I’m doing my dissertation in Corporate Financing the areas it covers really interest me, so hopefully I’ll be able to find a job in that field after I graduate/become qualified.
What companies/company would you like to work for and why?
Jessica: I would love to work for one of the Big 4 because they have offices all over the world allowing for lots of travelling opportunities. They seem like great companies to work for with a big variety of people from different backgrounds.
Ciaran: I’m quite keen to run my own business one day, but before that I would love to get the chance to work for one of top ten firms and learn from some the best. My best mate works for Mazars UK and is really enjoying it there.
Jessica: Yes, I know someone who travelled to Italy and lived there for two years while working as an accountant. He had a great time as he was able to learn some Italian and loved the culture there.
What do you think would be the biggest challenge in an international move?
Jessica: I think the biggest challenge would be overcoming an language barriers or trying to fit in to the local culture.
Ciaran: Biggest challenge would be leaving friends and family behind. It’s easier these days with Skype and WhatsApp but it could still be tough when you need support.
Jessica: For me, the most exciting thing would be making connections and becoming friends with lots of people in a different country.
Ciaran: Getting to test yourself in a different environment and that buzz of arriving somewhere new, where you don’t know anyone. I would say I’m quite confident so would revel in the opportunity to move abroad.
From all of us here at Think Global Recruitment we would like to wish Ciaran and Jessica the best of luck with the year ahead, we know they’ll do great!
