Why did you choose the field of accounting as your career?

If you would have asked me in high school which career path I wanted to pursue, accounting would have been at the bottom of the list. I took numerous science courses in high school, assuming that I would pursue a career in the medical field. However, after much contemplation, I realized there was no particular area in the medical field where I saw myself working, and that encouraged me to look into the business world. I always enjoyed organization, analytics and working with numbers and that inspired me to consider the field of accounting.  During my first week in Touro, I met with Professor Ehrlich, the chair of the accounting department, who encouraged me to take a full load of accounting courses to try it out, and the rest is history!

Why did you choose Touro?

I only applied to Touro! It was an obvious choice due to its unique combination of strong academics and supportive atmosphere that supports my religious values. I had an unparalleled college experience where I built lasting relationships with my professors and my classmates and received a stellar education that continues to help in my profession.

Did you do the accelerated accounting program? If so, can you share what that was like and why you did it?

Yes, I was in the first graduating class of the accelerated accounting program. It was definitely rigorous, but it allowed me to complete my degree faster and begin my career earlier. The program’s structure helped me stay disciplined and focused, and it mirrored the fast-paced environment I would later experience at EY. It was a great opportunity to challenge myself academically while gaining a head start on my professional goals.

What is your title at EY? Did Touro undergrad prepare you for your current role at EY? How?

My official title at EY is FSO Assurance Staff, Financial Services Organization Audit. Touro prepared me for this role by providing a strong foundation of technical accounting concepts. I have consistently been able to connect the work I do to what I learned in my courses. Additionally, the finance courses with which I supplemented my accounting degree provided me with an understanding of economics and investments, which has helped me tremendously in the investment valuations process of the audit.

What was it like transitioning from Touro to the corporate world? What advice would you give to others who plan to walk that path?

Transitioning from the warm, homey atmosphere at Touro to the large corporate sphere was a major and difficult transition. Being an Orthodox female in the corporate world presents a multitude of challenges. Almost a year after beginning at EY, I am still adapting to the immense cultural differences between the Orthodox community and the corporate world. It is of utmost importance to connect with others in the same situation in order to build a robust support system and to have mentors to guide you through the many challenges you will face.

Can you share a day in the life of your job at EY?

Due to the vastness of the audit in which I am involved, each day looks different. I start a typical day by checking my emails and my Teams channels, which helps me create a to-do list. My team has check-in calls three mornings a week where we touch base on priorities, and team members state their respective to-do lists. After the check-in call, I begin opening audit workpapers where I work on testing various financial statement line items, ensuring that the client’s financial statements are free of material misstatement. As part of the Wealth and Asset Management team within the Financial Services sector of the firm, one key area that I work on is testing the client’s valuation of their investments, their primary asset. We use a variety of techniques depending on the investment class to ensure that the valuations reported on the client’s financial statements are accurate. I conclude my day by compiling a list of support needed from the client and emailing them a concise request list.

What do you find most interesting or appealing about your position and what is most challenging?

My favorite part about my job is its fast-paced nature. Each day presents new challenges, and I am constantly on my toes trying to solve problems and reconcile any differences between mine and the client’s calculations. I have also learned an incredible amount about advanced Excel functions, which I enjoy incorporating into my work. Moreover, I am fortunate to work on an incredibly supportive team with whom I am constantly collaborating to solve problems. I am exposed to many extremely intelligent, knowledgeable individuals, and it is humbling to realize how much I have to learn. One challenge about my job is that the work can get very tedious, requiring a large degree of patience and keen attention to detail. An additional challenge is the long hours that are often required to meet tight deadlines, notably during busy season.

What skills/strengths do you feel are necessary to succeed in a big 4 accounting firm?

In addition to a strong accounting foundation, the most important skills include a willingness to learn and work long hours, and to maintain a professional demeanor under immense pressure. Teams value members who pick up on tasks quickly, are good-natured, possess a strong work ethic and maintain a positive attitude. A strong Excel background is a plus, but it is easily learned on the job.

What is your ultimate career goal? Why?

My immediate career goal is to pass all four sections of the CPA exam, a process that I have begun. Beyond that, my goals are to be able to use my knowledge to help others understand their finances and to create a schedule that will provide a stronger work-life balance, allowing me to focus on family and community.