CASSI: More than just a professional network
May 03, 2023
Evan O’Donnell, Assurance Associate at PwC, Co-Chairperson of CASSC and Vice-Chairperson of CASSI, has taken full advantage of the student societies, and thinks you should, too
I am in the third year of my training contract with PwC, and I can honestly say I have enjoyed my Chartered Accountancy journey so far. Don’t get me wrong, the immense exam material, gruelling exams, busy season hours and never-ending deadlines can take time to get used to, but like anything in life, balance is key.
CASSI networking
Throughout my three years, I have been involved in Chartered Accountants Ireland student societies.
Joining a regional society committee or Chartered Accountants Student Society of Ireland (CASSI)committee opens the door to a world of opportunities. Not only is it advantageous from a CV and career point of view, but the network of similar colleagues on similar life paths also creates lifelong bonds.
The fun, banter and laughs I’ve shared with my fellow students and colleagues over the past three years have made the route to becoming a Chartered Accountant an enjoyable one.
More than a bean counter
I have spent three years on Chartered Accountants Students Society Cork (CASSC), serving as the Education Officer, Vice-Chairperson and Co-Chairperson, and enjoying every minute of it.
Through organising academic and social events for my region, I have learned how to be an event planner, a traffic warden, a bouncer and, most importantly, an effective communicator!
Who says the role of an accountant is solely bound to calculators?
Exam camaraderie
I have been very fortunate that there are more than 30 other graduates in my intake at PwC Cork, which has certainly aided the exam process.
Having a large network of like-minded individuals who are going through the same challenges as myself, such as meeting audit deadlines, completing the CA Diary and sitting the Chartered Accountancy exams, has proved to be incredibly beneficial.
My advice to any current student who is debating whether to join a regional or national student society would be to go for it! The worst that can happen is that they’ll have buckets of fun with fellow students!
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