Blog

I always try to give 110% in everything I do and push myself to complete the best work I am capable of. This approach was no different when preparing for the Common Final Examination (CFE). While I gave 110% when studying for the CFE, I never thought I would make the honour roll. Much to my surprise though, I actually did! Though I probably wouldn’t have been able to do it without the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF).

On February 20^th 2020, the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) faculty, staff, alumni, and members of CPA Ontario gathered in downtown Toronto to celebrate the successes of SAF graduates in their Common Final Examinations (CFE) to become a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). The National Cub on Bay Street graciously held the event for us in their front room, which immediately made me forget that we were in the middle of Toronto and not a century old English manor house.

I strongly suggest you take part in any competition like the CFA Ethics Competition. I feel I was able to learn more about CFA Ethics in this competitive environment, than I would have through a course or project. I learned how ethics can be implemented in all types of situations—even in my daily life.

The IBM Technology Consulting Competition was a perfect example of how being in SAF allowed me to explore an exciting and unique experience. The competition is the largest tech-focused and student-run case competition in Canada, and in the past, over 400 participants from schools across North America competed.

Back in my first-year, I shied away from case competitions because I wasn’t confident thinking on my feet—but as one of my mentors advised me, competitions are a great way to learn about a new business field and get out of my comfort zone. As you gain more experience from your co-op terms and courses, you are already prepped with all the technical knowledge you need to succeed.

For those who are interested in business strategy and technology, the IBM Technology Consulting Competition is second to none. I had the opportunity to combine two of my passions and develop a creative solution all while meeting industry leaders and like-minded individuals.

Centered around IBM’s technology, our task was to determine the best course of action for a medium-sized bank looking to expand its operations nationally. With four hours to pull the deliverables together, we as a team were able to identify and play to the strengths of each individual. Our team was able to leverage a diverse set of backgrounds, as we’ve all completed a variety of co-op placements including private equity, accounting, management consulting and tech.