Why did you choose accounting for your career? Why ACCA?

ACCA provides a comprehensive understanding of financial principles, opening up opportunities for roles in various industries and enhancing career prospects. Its global recognition and flexibility are indeed significant advantages. Being recognised in over 180 countries, ACCA offers an international student like me the opportunity to work internationally and adapt to different accounting standards and practices. Additionally, I was particularly interested in the flexible exam structure that it provides, which allows me to progress at my own pace, balancing work and study commitments effectively.

What field of work or study were you in before you started your ACCA exams?

I pursued MSc in Finance from Trinity College Dublin before starting my ACCA journey.

Why did you choose Accountancy School?

I chose Accountancy School because it is the leading provider of ACCA education in Ireland. Its reputation for excellence makes it the top choice not only for students seeking a high-quality education but also for employers who recognise the value of its programmes. This widespread recognition and endorsement by employers significantly boost the institution’s credibility. Furthermore, the comprehensive lecture structure and experienced faculty solidified my decision to pursue my ACCA qualification at Accountancy School.

What advice would you give to someone starting their ACCA journey?

Before embarking on your ACCA journey, it’s crucial to develop a comprehensive plan. Begin by considering all relevant factors, such as the total number of exams you’ll need to complete, any specific requirements set by your employer, your personal commitments, and, for international students, any visa requirements that might affect your plan. Once you have a clear understanding of these elements, create a detailed study schedule. This plan should outline when and how you will prepare for each exam, taking into account your work hours, personal responsibilities and any other obligations. Consistency is key, so it’s important to adhere to this schedule as closely as possible. Practice is essential for success in ACCA exams. Aim to complete as many practice questions as you can. Approach your ACCA exams one at a time. This strategy allows you to focus your efforts on mastering the content for a single exam before moving on to the next, helping to prevent overwhelm and burnout.

What is your career goal after gaining your ACCA qualification?

Upon gaining my ACCA qualification, my career goal is to specialise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). I aim to leverage my ACCA knowledge to excel in financial analysis, deal structuring and strategic advisory roles within M&A.

From left to right:
Louise Johnston, Chair of ACCA Ireland Committee
Megha Aggarwal, Prize winner
Ronnie Patton, ACCA Global President
Dave O’Donoghue, Accountancy Lecturer