Audit Associate, KPMG
Why did you decide to come to Leeds?
I decided to come to Leeds in part because of the CU legacy in my family - my mom, uncle and cousin all graduated from CU, so I grew up hearing fun stories of them being students in Boulder. Additionally, as a junior in high school, I had the opportunity to participate in the KeyBank Business Leadership Program through the Diverse Scholars Program. I spent a week in Boulder, exploring the campus and surrounding community, attending 'preview' freshman level courses taught by Leeds faculty, and participating in a business case competition. That week, I fell in love with CU Boulder's campus and began to envision myself being a Leeds student. When I was granted scholarships through the Diverse Scholars and Leeds Scholars programs, choosing Leeds seemed like a no-brainer!
What is one thing you learned at Leeds that you will never forget?
Leeds taught me the importance of making the most out of any experience. The business school offers a multitude of ways to get involved, ranging from student clubs, case competitions and opportunities to work with faculty on research projects. From the first day of my freshman year, I leaned into everything that Leeds had to offer, looking for ways to enhance my experience at Leeds. I joined one of the business fraternities, participated in case competitions, acted as both mentee and mentor through various mentoring programs, and even worked as a Peer Advisor in the Leeds Advising office, which allowed me to connect with more Leeds students and faculty/staff. Because I took advantage of everything that Leeds had to offer, I graduated knowing that I had an enriching and multi-faceted experience in school.
Tell us about a particular professor or mentor that influenced you while you were at Leeds.
Kristi Ryujin was someone who greatly influenced my experience at Leeds. Kristi taught me the value of having a sponsor in your life, someone who will not only mentor you but help create opportunities for you as well. I found a sponsor in Kristi, as she invested the time to get to know me and constantly challenged me to not only become a better business student but also a better person. Kristi encouraged me to step into stretch roles and leadership positions, even when I questioned my own ability to perform. Kristi's support pushed me to grow in ways that I would not have imagined when I began my time at CU. I deeply owe Kristi for helping me become the woman and professional that I am today.
Where has life taken you since you graduated Leeds?
Since graduating from the Master's in Accounting program in December 2019, I passed the four sections of the CPA exam, enjoyed a Colorado summer (hiking, hammocking, and spending as much time outdoors) before starting work, and began my career as an Audit Associate with KPMG in October of 2020. While I am still learning the ropes of 'adulting,' I have remained connected to Leeds by serving as a YAMS mentor and holding a position on the Leeds Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Board.
What is one piece of advice/best practice that has stuck with you throughout your career?
One piece of advice that I work to live by is “be comfortable with the uncomfortable,” both in my personal and professional life. Raising my hand to take on challenging tasks/projects at work and setting stretch goals for myself in life have helped me to continually grow and improve. I have also carried what I learned at Leeds, making the most out of any experience, with me in my career. Within my company, I have found ways to lean into groups and resources that allow me to connect with more professionals on a level beyond our daily work tasks.
What advice would you give to anyone interested in pursuing a career in your professional field?
My advice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in Accounting would be to always advocate for yourself. I have learned that it is important to vocalize to your team the things that you want to learn or be a part of. For example, I have been focusing on developing my client experience skills and will ask my seniors to sit in on client meetings and to take the lead in client communication in my assigned work areas. While I believe most firms offer resources and support for professional growth, you are ultimately responsible for advocating for yourself and your development in your career.
What do you miss most about Boulder?
I miss the Flatirons and the infinite possibilities of things to do. I loved spending an evening on Pearl Street, exploring new coffee shops, and enjoying the outdoors, whether it be on Farrand Field or hiking the Flatirons.