After spending several years in the workforce, IMAcc student Kamila Mirzaeva decided to come back to school. We spoke to the native Russian about her career plans, her favourite spot in Niagara and her tips for other students coming back to school after being in the workforce.
As an international student studying in Canada, you’ve had a number of new experiences this year. What has been your most memorable experience at Goodman?
This year has become one of the most exiting, amazing, and challenging years in my life. I now know a new environment, new people, and a new culture which I am truly in love with. This year, for Brock University, and for Goodman, it was very special due to the 50-year anniversary. “Be a part of it” said the white slogan on red. And I was. I was at an awesome Alumni anniversary dinner with an informal and friendly atmosphere, live music and gifts, where old friends met each other again, laughing- it brought back good memories. All these things made the event memorable for me. I had a really good time with new friends. I saw, even after graduation, how people stay a part of Brock, part of Goodman and, for me, this is what Goodman Spirit is.
How do you hope the IMAcc will advance your accounting career?
The IMAcc means a lot for me in terms of my professional growth. I truly believe that this program will help me climb the career ladder because of Goodman’s reputation in the accounting field. The IMAcc is not my final destination as I am going to get my professional designation as well, but the IMAcc gives me a strong academic background that is applicable in the Canadian environment.
You were out of school and working for several years before deciding to return to classes. What tips would you give to other students that are returning back to earn their master’s degree?
My tips are universal regardless whether he/she is a mature student or not:
- Perfect your time-management. Managing your time is extremely important . Try to do things on time. Make your own daily schedule and follow it strictly.
- Do all the problems. The more you do the better off you are. If you can do it, it means you understand it.
- Make friends. Communication is the key: your profs, your classmates, all these people can help you if you have problems with an assignment or you need advice or information.
- Ask questions. This is one of the key skills needed for your success. Ask the right question of the right people. People in Canada are usually helpful.
What is your favourite thing about living in Niagara?
It is not something new but I will say that I love Niagara Falls. It impresses me so much by its beauty and power. It is definitely worth visiting.
How do you show your #GoodmanSpirit?
Goodman Spirit for me means being active, being competitive, growing in knowledge and skills, think positive. For the last five months, I have attended different training sessions such as Excel Advanced training, workshops and information sessions,. I got Bloomberg certified, learned more about consulting and took part in research related to the Niagara community. In addition, our team won a case simulator competition and for my preliminary coursework, I was picked as the most dedicated student in my class.
