Honestly, I had no aspiration of being an accouting major.
I started off as a marketing major actually.
So I thought, "What am I doing as a theatre major?"
I went into accounting because I thought that was an opportunity to use my creative side.
I figured, this is a good way to get into practically any industry.
Accounting is that foundation that you need
to really understand how business works.
And how it is that successful people were able to get to where they are.
So when I started as an intern,
I was very overwhelmed by the prospect.
But when you walk through the door, you are not expected to know everything.
However, you are expected to seek out those people who do know a lot of things.
When we came in, we had
a week long training where we learned the ins and outs of what we're gonna be doing.
And it felt really good to be hands-on.
And really feel like I was part of the team here.
What excites me to wake up every day and go to work is first of all
the people I work with.
It's everyday I have to assess what you've done,
and what kind of fire.. could arise that could throw my entire schedule off.
One month you could be working on a bank.
It can be hopping on a whole bunch of different conference calls with clients that are around the globe.
And next month you could be working on an energy company.
One of the realities is, sometimes,
I have to work a lot.
Actually, a lot of times.
But the ... to that is,
they realize that the only way that you are going to be truly successful
is if you've got that balance between work and life.
At PwC, we are encouraged to take time during the day,
and actually contribute to the community.
I really enjoy having the opportunity to mentor kids,
really actually because they realize that they can be where I'm at.
When you are in a team environment, whether it's on a basketball court,
a football field, or even in an engagement team,
you have to realize that no matter how low or how high you are on that totem pole,
the work that you do is important.
Ballroom dancing is my escape.
It's a partner dance, so it's not just all about you.
Within client service, the same kind of concept applies.
It's about that collaboration with your team, and collaboration with the client.
Team is the most essential part of PwC.
And one thing helping me so far is the support system.
Coaching is a really important part of what we do every day.
I have a formal coach,
and then I have a whole handful of informal coaches.
For someone new to a corporate environment,
it can be a little daunting.
But over the course of the few years I've been here,
you realize they are real people,
and they were in my position at one time.
I think some days I still feel like I'm playing dress-up,
when I walk out of my apartment, I get on the subway, and get to work,
and I actually know what I'm doing now.
Now today actually I serve some of the largest companies in the country.
And now I'm in a position where I'll be teaching people what I know.
If you are a college student looking to get into professional services.
Stay in touch with the professionals that you interact with.
Understand who you are.
Try to be as well-rounded as possible.
Do not matter where you come from, what your background is,
if you believe in something, go for it.