Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I come from a middle-class business family and grew up in Borivali, Mumbai. From an early age, I developed a strong passion for understanding how businesses operate and identifying opportunities for improvement. Alongside my professional interests, I have always been enthusiastic about sports, which has helped me develop discipline, teamwork, and a competitive mindset.
What made you choose Ireland as a place you wanted to work?
Ireland appealed to me for several reasons. I was particularly drawn to its strong work-life balance culture, the equal opportunities it offers to professionals from diverse backgrounds, and its reputation for being a welcoming and inclusive environment. These values aligned closely with my own, making Ireland a natural choice for the next chapter of my career.
What was your most memorable experience from your time at NCI?
My time at NCI was truly enriching on multiple levels. Academically, it provided me with a rigorous and relevant education. Beyond the classroom, I valued the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with peers from various backgrounds, and the exposure to a professional environment helped shape my understanding of workplace expectations and standards.
How did you hear about your role? (Was it a jobsite, a contact, a recruitment agency, someone you met at a careers event etc?)
I came across the opportunity through LinkedIn while actively searching for roles related to accounting and finance. Upon finding the position, I took the initiative to connect directly with the Partner at the firm. That proactive approach led to a conversation and, ultimately, to securing the role.
What did the recruitment and selection process involve and how did you prepare for it?
The process included an assessment that evaluated both industry knowledge and personal attributes. I prepared by revisiting core accounting concepts, staying current with industry developments, and reflecting on my experiences to articulate them clearly and confidently.
Can you describe the visa process you underwent? (Did you get Stamp 1G or Critical Skills – has that changed since joining etc)
I initially obtained a Stamp 1G visa, which allowed me to remain in Ireland for two years following my studies. I subsequently transitioned to a Stamp 1A, which reflects my progression into a structured professional training role.
What is a typical day like in your current role?
My day typically involves client communication, preparing financial statements for audit clients, and handling accounts preparation. Each day brings its own set of challenges, which keeps the work engaging and allows me to continuously develop my technical and interpersonal skills.
What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?
Without doubt, the most challenging aspect has been balancing the demands of full-time work alongside pursuing a Level 9 Master's degree. It required careful time management, resilience, and a strong commitment to both my professional and academic responsibilities.
What are your Top 3 tips for current students and graduates who are looking to enter the job market in Ireland?
Do not be discouraged by rejection.Treat every application as a learning opportunity and continuously refine how you present yourself, starting with a strong, well-tailored CV.
Invest in building your professional network early. Engage with industry professionals, understand what the current market demands, and position yourself accordingly.
Seek out diverse perspectives and experiences.Everyone's journey is different, and approaching your career with an open mind will expose you to insights and opportunities you may not have otherwise considered.