My name is Yves van Marle, 27 years old. During my study business economics, I gained practical experience from an internship at a healthcare institution and an internship at an accounting firm. After finishing my higher professional education, I started my Master Accounting and Control at the University of Amsterdam. I finished this study in July 2015 after a thesis internship at KPMG. After finishing my Master, I made a six month world trip. When I came back, I became a trainee with KPMG and I started with my post-master Accountancy at the University of Amsterdam. Developing broad professional skills and personal growth are key points during this process. By working at KPMG and following my post-master, I want to develop myself into a starting professional. Why KPMG? During my Master, I visited several events like inhousedays, dinners and workshops. I really enjoyed the events at KPMG, mostly because I had a good connection with employees from KPMG. Furthermore, it was really clear to me which departments and activities there are at KPMG. So, based on my feeling and prior good experiences, I decided to apply for a job at KPMG. “Try to attend as many events as possible during your study and get a good picture of the culture at a company.” My experience at KPMG At KMPG, I get the opportunity to develop myself from a student to a professional in a short time span. This is, among others, due to the dynamic work and the amount of time I spend on customer contact. Moreover, these contacts are with a large variety of customers. You grow quickly in your work and job level, ensuring that you continue to develop yourself as a person and as a professional. In addition to working, KPMG also organizes all kinds of informal events to get to know your colleagues better. So, a ski trip this year was one of these activities! KPMG employees under the age of 31 automatically become members of ‘Connect’, a platform for youngsters. ‘Connect’ organizes various activities throughout the year, such as breakfast sessions, lectures, pub quizzes and golf clinics. In these activities, focus is on social, academic and personal development. My success of the past year This year, I participated in a first year inspection of a large listed company. There were a few strict deadlines. This was hard, but together with my team we put muscle in to it and completed the assignment on time. The fact that we did this together, gave me a very satisfied feeling! Through this assignment, I also learned how to deal with deadlines while also ensuring the interests of the customer. I would like to tell you this Try to attend as many events as possible during your study and get a good picture of the culture at a company. I wrote my Master’s thesis at KPMG and I definitely recommend to do this. This gives you a unique opportunity to get a view behind the scenes of a company for a couple of months. In addition, it is also a great way to establish your network. This will certainly help you in making choices for your future career!
Working At Witlox VCS
Who am I? My name is Dietske Bastiaensen, I am 22 years old and was born in Zundert. After graduating from VWO, I started my bachelor in Business- and Consumer sciences at the University of Wageningen. During my studies I became interested in the way companies handle their finances. Therefore, when I was finishing my bachelor’s degree, I started with the premaster Accountancy. I graduated from both educations over the past half year. Since the amount of course work over the past year was limited, I had time for some extracurricular activities next to my studies. Therefore, I began searching for a side-job in accountancy to obtain practical experience in addition to my studies. Hence, I started about 7 months ago with an internship at Witlox VCS in the position of Assistant Accountant within the audit. Since then, I have been working at Witlox VCS for about 4 days a week. In September I will start my masters education in Accounting, in which I will do the ‘’Professional (RA/RC) route’’. This program concerns a full-time degree of one year, which I will combine with my position at Witlox VCS. Thanks to Witlox VCS, I will thus have the opportunity to put the theory from the lectures directly into practice by combining studying with working. Furthermore, in coordination with my supervisor there is a certain amount of flexibility to spend more time at Witlox VCS when my study allows it, and work less when I am preparing for my exams. What do I do at Witlox VCS and what does the team and organization look like? Witlox VCS is located in Breda and targets SMEs. I am currently working as an assistant in the Audit team. The team consists of assistants and accountants and our main task is to carry out control activities for the larger clients of Witlox VCS. Often, I work at the office of the client, which allows me to view various companies from within. We work on each assignment for about two to three weeks in teams that consist of three persons. As a result, I am involved in several parts of the control process and observe a large part of the activities that take place within the organization. Witlox VCS offers a total package to its clients, which means that you collaborate with other departments as well. For example, the wage department of Witlox VCS looks after the salary administration and payments for some clients. In addition, Witlox takes care of financial questions within the corporate finance department, provides fiscal advice and performs calculations in the fiscal department. All this information is valuable input for my role and used to perform my tasks properly. The team consists mostly out of Register Accountants (RAs) and students that are doing the RA route (e.g. at the Neyenrode Business University or at the University of Tilburg). Because the team consists of multiple students and experienced Register Accountants, the working environment is productive and enjoyable. Recently we went with the assistant-accountants to a craft beer night, which allowed us to get to know each other in a different setting. “The employee day demonstrated that Witlox VCS is looking for development, not only on a corporate level, but also on a personal level.” Next to the work there are more activities, either with the team or the entire office. For instance, the yearly team trip took us to a golf course, where we received a golf training and were able to play some holes. The day was concluded with a delicious Italian meal and lots of laughter. Furthermore, two weeks ago I attended my first employee day. During the day, two courses were offered. The first course was about your personal ambition and intrinsic motivation. The second course expanded on this topic, by tying the personal ambitions within the office together in a collective ambition. Following these courses we had dinner and competed against each other in a pubquiz. This way, the entertainment was coupled to the educational part, which allowed the office to grow closer together by getting to know each other better. The employee day demonstrated that Witlox VCS is looking for development, not only on a corporate level, but also on a personal level. Furthermore, personal development as well as receiving and giving feedback is one of the central themes within the training programs of Witlox VCS. My experience at Witlox so far What I enjoy most from working at Witlox VCS is that it is an accounting office of medium size, with approximately 120 employees. In my experience it meant I was taken seriously from the start, which is also exemplified by the opportunity to work on control activities. In addition, you are involved in many affairs and obtain a good overview of what is happening in the company. It allows for an informal working environment and efficient communication channels between various teams. As a result, I felt immediately at home at Witlox VCS. Tips for students of Tilburg University It is important to look for something you will actually like and are interested in. To discover this, having access to as much information as possible is useful. You can gather this information by talking to people about their experiences. You can always send me a message via Linkedin or talk to me at the university if you have questions. Do you think working at Witlox VCS is something for you and do you want to receive more information? Have a look at our website (https://www.witloxvcs.nl/) or contact Loes Vinkenborg.
Working at PwC
My name is Jordi de Oude, I am 24 years old and live in Eindhoven. I have been working at PwC for 2 years now, first as an intern, and later as an Associate in the Assurance department within PwC Eindhoven. Simultaneously, I am finishing my last course of the Post-Master Accountancy in Tilburg. Next to my studies I enjoy spending my weekends with family or riding my motorcycle. After high school, in 2012, I moved from Apeldoorn to Tilburg to study for a bachelor in Business Economics. Despite the fact that I was an active member of Asset | Marketing, I quickly discovered that Accountancy-related courses inspired me the most. Crunching numbers and the story behind the figures I found most interesting. This interest became extra clear because of the Inhousedays of several accountancy firms I enjoyed. As a result, I started with a Master in Accountancy after graduating in the Bachelor Business Economics. During my Master I did an internship with PwC and wrote my thesis here. Why PwC? During my studies I had the opportunity to look around several offices, both in the Big-4 and smaller offices. Ultimately, I chose to join one of the Big-4 office, because I believed I could develop myself optimally there. Of course, that led to the question: Which office? I decided based on my gut feeling. I have been to a lot of events, like the Inhousedays, BBQ-nights and case-days. As a result, I became more familiar with 3 of the 4 major offices. Therefore, I went into job interviews with multiple offices, but during these talks my preference for PwC became clear rapidly. “Go to as many of the events organized as possible to get a good impression of the culture at the companies.” I immediately felt at home, connected with my colleagues and experienced the most informal vibe here. Also, I had the impression that PwC was really willing to invest in me, in order for me to develop myself. In addition, you are placed in a 2-year development program of Pwc, The Associate Academy, where you get to develop yourself with the assistance of a coach, a lot of work experience, training and social events. Experience so far Within PwC I am in the final phase of the Associate Academy. During this program I had the opportunity to gather experience within almost every department, something that distinguishes PwC from the other firms. Next to that, I had the opportunity to develop myself within the program because of the great guidance of a coach, the multiple trainings that are organized, and sparring during the training days with other Associates of my year. In addition to the work and training, a lot of activities are organized where you can get to know your colleagues in a different way. For example, I went on a weekend trip to Cologne with fellow Associates of the office in Eindhoven, every year we go on a ski trip, and multiple team outings are organized, which vary from a diner to a trip to the Efteling. In addition, sports events are regularly organized, like an indoor football- or tennis tournament. Soon, PwC will be having its 125 anniversary and to celebrate there will be a big party for all the offices in the Netherlands. In short, a lot of opportunities to get to know colleagues in an informal way. In conclusion, PwC offers you the room to develop yourself in other areas than Accountancy, as I am involved in the recruitment team of the south region of the Netherlands within PwC, and I am part of the Connected Running. Through Connected Running me and a couple of colleagues organize jogging work-outs for colleagues and clients. My tips for students Go to as many of the events organized as possible to get a good impression of the culture at the companies. Ultimately, all the offices have the same type of clients and same working activities, and the difference is made by the type of people that work there and the culture of the firm. It is a search for the place that makes you feel at home. In addition, I made the right choice to write my thesis at an Accountancy firm. This kind of experience offers the opportunity to have an insight in a company where you might end up working, a look at the kind of activities you might be performing, and most of all, to get to know the people. I can recommend you to do this. Try to join a team during an internship, so you get a good impression of the work.
Working at Joore
My name is Marieke Haans, I am 23 years old and living in Tilburg. After finishing high school, I graduated for my bachelor Business- and Consumer studies at Wageningen University. During my bachelor I discovered I was more interested in subjects as for example business economics and mathematics than I expected.. During my bachelor, I moved to Amsterdam to study for a minor in Accountancy at the University of Amsterdam. For me, this was a confirmation to start the master Accountancy. Momentarily, I find myself in the graduating phase at Tilburg University, while working 2 to 3 days a week at Joore. In September I will continue with the Post Master Accountancy. Other than studying and working, I like to play hockey, have a drink or go to dinner with family and friends. In February 2017 I started my master in Accountancy. Usually the lectures are scheduled on two weekdays which creates the possibility of gaining work experience next to your master. – In March 2017 I started working for Joore as a working student assistant-accountant , and I definitely do not regret the decision. Joore especially appealed to me because it characterizes itself as a young, ambitious organization with an open and personal approach. Moreover, I thought it was important to choose for an office with a good vibe and a firm I felt comfortable with. The major advantage of working at Joore is the intensive collaboration with colleagues, both chartered- and assistant-accountants and tax specialists. I have experienced that we can learn a lot from each other. In contrast to other small accounting firms, we serve many audit clients. Moreover, I have the chance to develop myself internationally. Joore co-operates intensively with a Romanian accounting firm. Many of our clients are internationally oriented as well. Joore is very flexible about the number of hours I can and want to work. It is completely fine to work only one day or not at all during my exams, and usually three days during other weeks. When I started working at Joore, the focus was on compilation work. . I have experienced that learning how to book and compile an administration is a solid base for further growth. After a short while I started visiting clients, for both auditing and compilation assignments within a team. Nowadays, I generally work for a client for several days and I work as a full-fledged team member in various assignments. Joore is very flexible about the number of hours I can and want to work. It is completely fine to work only one day or not at all during my exams, and usually three days during other weeks. I also appreciate the monthly evaluation about my progress. This allows me to discuss personal and business related topics with my direct colleagues. Do you want to know more about the possibilities for you at Joore? Visit our site for more information or contact Britt Donkers (britt.donkers@joore.nl – 013-5900017). Joore is always looking for motivated colleagues!
Working at Joore
My name is Marieke Haans, I am 23 years old and living in Tilburg. After finishing high school, I graduated for my bachelor Business- and Consumer studies at Wageningen University. During my bachelor I discovered I was more interested in subjects as for example business economics and mathematics than I expected.. During my bachelor, I moved to Amsterdam to study for a minor in Accountancy at the University of Amsterdam. For me, this was a confirmation to start the master Accountancy. Momentarily, I find myself in the graduating phase at Tilburg University, while working 2 to 3 days a week at Joore. In September I will continue with the Post Master Accountancy. Other than studying and working, I like to play hockey, have a drink or go to dinner with family and friends. In February 2017 I started my master in Accountancy. Usually the lectures are scheduled on two weekdays which creates the possibility of gaining work experience next to your master. – In March 2017 I started working for Joore as a working student assistant-accountant , and I definitely do not regret the decision. Joore especially appealed to me because it characterizes itself as a young, ambitious organization with an open and personal approach. Moreover, I thought it was important to choose for an office with a good vibe and a firm I felt comfortable with. The major advantage of working at Joore is the intensive collaboration with colleagues, both chartered- and assistant-accountants and tax specialists. I have experienced that we can learn a lot from each other. In contrast to other small accounting firms, we serve many audit clients. Moreover, I have the chance to develop myself internationally. Joore co-operates intensively with a Romanian accounting firm. Many of our clients are internationally oriented as well. Joore is very flexible about the number of hours I can and want to work. It is completely fine to work only one day or not at all during my exams, and usually three days during other weeks. When I started working at Joore, the focus was on compilation work. . I have experienced that learning how to book and compile an administration is a solid base for further growth. After a short while I started visiting clients, for both auditing and compilation assignments within a team. Nowadays, I generally work for a client for several days and I work as a full-fledged team member in various assignments. Joore is very flexible about the number of hours I can and want to work. It is completely fine to work only one day or not at all during my exams, and usually three days during other weeks. I also appreciate the monthly evaluation about my progress. This allows me to discuss personal and business related topics with my direct colleagues. Do you want to know more about the possibilities for you at Joore? Visit our site for more information or contact Britt Donkers (britt.donkers@joore.nl – 013-5900017). Joore is always looking for motivated colleagues!
Working at Fagro
Who am I? I am Koen Koot, 25 years old and have been working at Fagro as a Financial Consultant for 1,5 years. Just like you, I did my studies in Tilburg, which is where I currently reside. Luckily, I didn’t have to move too far, since I am originally from Kaatsheuvel. Probably most notable to you for…. the Efteling of course. What did I do before Fagro? Like I shortly mentioned before, I studied at Tilburg University as well. After graduating in the Bachelor in Business Economics, I subsequently continued with a Master in Finance. A Master I can recommend to everyone. During my bachelor period I also did an internship at ABN AMRO Bank in Breda. Other than being an incredibly educational period, a really fun time too! Let that be my first tip: make sure that you develop yourself well, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself during this period of your life! “It became obvious that Fagro attaches great value to the personal development of the consultant.” How did I end up at Fagro? The opportunities ahead of you as students, I of course faced as well. When I finished my Master, I had to orientate myself on the job market. An important moment to get in touch with relevant employers are the Economic Business Weeks (EBT). Here I got in contact with Fagro. After a pleasant, personal conversation during the EBT I got invited for a cup of coffee at the office. Things have been snowballing ever since. After a couple of additional follow-up interviews and a competence test, Fagro and I turned out to be a match, and I am still very happy with that! Why Fagro? Other than the right click I had with the business manager of Fagro, there are other reasons why I chose for Fagro. In the conversations we had it became obvious that Fagro attaches great value to the personal development of the consultant. A special program was created for starting employees where you and fellow starters of your generation have monthly competency- or subject oriented trainings. Next to the organized training, Fagro also offers the opportunity to study for the post master part time in order to become a Register Controller. There are definitely enough opportunities to develop yourself! In addition, I really wanted to explore consultancy as well. Gaining as much experience as possible across various organizations, both professionally and socially, is very important to me. I believe that it is incredibly important that you can adapt yourself well to the dynamic environment and deal with varying personalities in the business world. “Try to be active within a study association or local sports club. Not just to strengthen your CV, but to discover yourself!” What do I do now? Even though one of my main reasons to choose for Fagro was to develop myself in different types of businesses and environments in a short amount of time, I am ironically enough still working for my first client: Philips Lightning. However, the fact that I’m still working here means in my case that I have managed to develop myself a lot! After starting out as a credit manager at Philips Lighting IP (intellectual property) I have managed to progress into an assistant controller. Primarily I was responsibly for everything regarding the accounts receivable position, but over time I became responsible for the total revenues of the licensing team. An incredible challenge as a starter, but that makes it incredibly exciting and educational. In fact, I was invited to go to America for week to work on a project for Philips. These wonderful opportunities were offered to me partly because of my choice for Fagro, and who knows what exciting opportunities lie ahead of me! What advice do I have for students? Since I am probably only a couple years older than you, I don’t want to call it ‘advice’. However, I can share with you what I think is important in this period of your lives. Make sure that you know what you like to do! Create distinction in the courses you attend. What do you think is really interesting? In addition, make sure you are active next to your studies. Both socially and professionally. Explore whether it’s possible for you to do an internship so you can get a taste of what it’s like to work inside a certain company or industry. Try to be active within a study association or local sports club. Not just to strengthen your CV, but to discover yourself! Like I said, don’t forget to enjoy yourself during this period of your life. It is an important aspect of developing and discovering yourself. You can always contact me via LinkedIn in case you have any other questions, or would like to know more.
