In 2015, Alice Shen moved from her home country of China to Australia to pursue a master’s degree in professional accounting at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). Upon completing her studies in 2017, Alice applied for the KPMG graduate program, one of several graduate and student programs offered by the company.
According to Alice, applying is one of the best decisions she has ever made. Not only did she receive a placement in the program but, in 2021, she went on to become a senior consultant within KPMG’s CFO Advisory Division.
In an ongoing pursuit of learning, Alice also worked towards a certificate with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA Global), a global body for accounting professionals. She credits her training with ACCA Global as one of the key pillars of her success.
Speaking to Insider Guides, Alice shared the unique challenges and opportunities she experienced as an international student in Australia and her journey to working with one of the Big Four firms.
Championing inclusion and diversity
Working at KPMG means that Alice is surrounded by a supportive, fun and highly capable team. She loves the highly social aspect of her work, which includes forums and events. Additionally, Alice appreciates that KPMG’s values align with her own.
In addition to a commitment to excellent client service, inclusion, diversity and equity are championed at KPMG. This division encompasses cultural diversity, the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, support around family and caring responsibilities, gender equity, a barrier-free workplace for people with a disability, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
When the opportunity arose to become more involved in this part of the business, Alice eagerly volunteered.
Alice uses her platform within KPMG to promote inclusion, diversity and equity by creating opportunities for her team to have open dialogues, initiating actions and activities, and helping to build a safe working environment.
“The highly inclusive environment here has really helped me to progress over the past few years. I believe that through communication, collaboration and teamwork, I will be able to help maintain the safe and welcoming environment at KPMG,” Alice says.
How ACCA Global made all the difference
In addition to her studies with UNSW, Alice says that her experience with ACCA Global offered her invaluable career leverage. The global body for professional accountants, ACCA Global works towards accounting for a better world. A key part of achieving this mission is equipping its students with the skills, knowledge and experience needed to drive positive change in the sector.
Alice adds that ACCA Global offers you a sense of belonging within a broad international community. Because ACCA Global is a multinational organisation, its learning, networking and growth opportunities transcend borders.
Through ACCA Global, Alice was able to strengthen her critical and logical thinking, technical, analytical and communication skills – all of which have proved critical in her role at KPMG.
Read more:
Words of wisdom for international students
Alice knows from firsthand experience that the challenges faced by international students are diverse and unique. However, she believes that embracing these challenges arms people with the capacity to grow and develop.
With the hope of seeing more international students empower themselves just as she has, Alice offers the following points of advice:
- Be intentional – Think carefully about what you really want for your future. Once you have an idea of what that looks like, set specific and measurable goals – and stick to them.
- Be flexible – A sense of adaptability and a willingness to adjust your approach will take you far.
- Start networking – It’s never too early (or too late) to start building your professional network in Australia. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for support or feedback from those in your industry whom you respect.
- Gain experience wherever possible – When it comes to launching your finance career, Alice explains that experience is key. Look for internships through your education provider or organisations like ACCA Global to gain practical experience that will give you a competitive edge when looking for graduate roles.
- Focus on soft skills and technical skills – According to Alice, soft skills – such as communication, problem-solving, open-mindedness and an eagerness to learn – are just as important as technical skills.
- Don’t be discouraged by language gaps – In Alice’s experience, a combination of effort and confidence will help you advance in both your English proficiency and career.
- Maintain a balanced lifestyle – Look after both your mind and body. Nothing is more important – or crucial to your success – than your own wellbeing.
- Lean on your support systems – Most of all, Alice says, the support of her loved ones and career mentors has brought her to where she is today. Whether it’s your friends, family members, or even classmates, don’t hesitate to lean on your closest connections.
Read more: The Gig Economy: How Working as a Freelancer Can Transform Your Career
