What is your current job/role?
Senior Associate in International Tax and Transaction Services at EY.
How do you think that your degree helped you in achieving this role?
There are plenty of accounting and finance modules in the course which really allowed me to strengthen my knowledge in those areas. This helped massively when applying for placements and jobs as it was clear I had a strong foundation in accounting and finance by the time I went on placement.
What electives did you take during your studies? Did you enjoy them? How have helped your career choice?
I took the accounting electives. This massively helped me as when I undertook my studies with Chartered Accountants Ireland, I received several exemptions because of taking those electives. The accounting modules really do build on each other over the years and are taught extremely well.
Favourite thing about studying at TUS?
I found that the lecturers were extremely helpful, and I really got to know them over my 4 years. They really do care about how you are getting on with your studies and they have taken an interest in helping me with my own career. I also made friends for life as class sizes are small, so I really got to know everybody in my course very well.
What was your favourite module/subject?
The financial markets elective in final year was my favourite module in my four years. It was tough but very relevant to current events, and I see elements of it in my current role. The research part of this module was very rewarding and gave me freedom to choose what I wanted to write about.
Did you have a work placement as part of your degree? If so, talk a bit about it.
The placement element of my degree was by far the most beneficial to me. There were several top companies to apply to as well as local businesses. I ended up receiving a graduate offer from EY during my placement and have since started as a graduate. I feel the experience you gain while out on placement is a massive advantage to take with you into final year and really helps you figure out what you want to do after college.
What advice would you give to prospective Business students at TUS?
My advice would be to have fun and follow your interests as TUS has many great electives. Talk to your lectures and get to know them because you’ll see them every year and they are more than willing to help. Finally, I would encourage you to make the most of your placement in third year as it is a great way to launch your career and put what you’ve learnt into practice.