Meet Sydney Business School, UOW Alumni, Shraddha Sapkota

Alumni spotlight: Shraddha Sapkota

Shraddha Sapkota, a Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong alumnus from Nepal, completed her Master of Professional Accounting Advanced in 2019 and now works as a Financial Accountant at the Transport for NSW. In this interview, she shared her career journey and industry insight to our students. 

Career journey 

I am currently working as a Financial Accountant at Transport for NSW, a leading government agency in the public transportation sector. In my role, I manage various financial processes, general ledger reconciliations, and the preparation of performance dashboards for various stakeholders. I have a strong background in accounting and finance, supported by a Master’s degree in Professional Accounting from the University of Wollongong and I am also the CPA membership.

After earning my master’s degree, I began my career as an Assistant Accountant at Accountants Point where my key responsibilities included handling journal entries and reconciliations. I then worked at Carlton Railway Pharmacy, gaining experience in budget analysis and financial reporting.

I advanced to the ADARA Group, where I served as an Assistant Accountant and later as a Financial Accountant, managing ledgers, preparing financial statements, and overseeing accounts receivables and payables. As I have mentioned earlier, currently I am a Financial Accountant at Transport for NSW. My journey has been marked by continuous learning and a commitment to delivering high-quality financial services.

Preparing for the professional world

My time at the University of Wollongong was instrumental in preparing me for my current career. It provided me a solid foundation in accounting principles, financial management, and auditing practices.

A pivotal part of my education was completing the GWP 900 course, which facilitated internships and gave me exposure to the professional world. This experience allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, build a professional network, and gain insights into the industry. The practical assignments and case studies I worked on helped me develop a deep understanding of real-world financial scenarios.

The university emphasized the use of modern accounting software and tools, which I currently use in my role. Support from professors and collaboration with peers also enhanced my teamwork and communication skills, essential in my current position as a Financial Accountant.

Succeeding with robust skills 

The university's emphasis on modern accounting software prepared me to efficiently use programs like SAP, Microsoft Great Plains, and Business Central in my current role. Additionally, balancing coursework, projects, and internships helped me develop strong time management and organisational skills, enabling me to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines in my professional life. Overall, the education and experiences at the University of Wollongong have equipped me with a robust skill set that has been instrumental in my career development and success.

Guidance and collaboration 

For current students or recent graduates looking to enter the field of accounting and finance, here's some key advice: Practical experience is crucial, so seek internships and part-time roles to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Additionally, focus on developing technical skills with accounting software like SAP and Microsoft Great Plains, as these are highly valued by employers. Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and organization are equally important, so hone these through group projects and leadership roles. Actively network with industry professionals, stay updated on trends, consider pursuing certifications such as CPA or CA for credibility, and nurture a detail-oriented and analytical mindset. Finding a mentor can also provide invaluable guidance as you navigate your career path in accounting and finance.

Learning dedication and experience 

One of my fondest memories from my time at the University of Wollongong was the honor of receiving the Golden Key International Honor in the year 2018, awarded by the esteemed Golden Key International Society. Additionally, I was thrilled to receive an Academic Achievement Letter for obtaining the highest marks in 'Accounting Foundations for Professionals' and 'Professional Practice- Auditing & Risk Assurance.' It was a moment of great pride and validation for my hard work and dedication to my studies.

Besides my academic pursuits, I value the close friendships I formed with two amazing friends during my time at the UOW. These friendships enhanced my university experience significantly and remain a source of comfort and joy. I am thankful to UOW for facilitating these meaningful connections and unforgettable memories.

Empowering future professionals 

I guess, the finance and accounting field in future will be shaped by various key trends.

Automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics will continue to transform how financial data is processed, analyzed, and reported. Future professionals will need strong technical skills to navigate accounting software, data visualization tools, and emerging technologies.

Globalization and evolving regulations will increase the complexity of financial reporting and compliance. Knowledge of international accounting standards, tax laws, and regulatory frameworks will be crucial for professionals to ensure accurate and compliant financial operations.

As technology handles more routine tasks, accountants and finance professionals will increasingly focus on strategic decision-making. Skills in financial analysis, risk management, strategic planning, and communication will be essential to provide valuable insights and support business growth.

With greater scrutiny on corporate governance and ethical standards, future graduates will need strong ethical values and leadership skills. The ability to navigate ethical dilemmas, promote transparency, and uphold integrity in financial practices will be critical for building trust with stakeholders.

The pace of change in the accounting and finance industry will require professionals to be adaptable and committed to lifelong learning. Continuous upskilling in areas such as cybersecurity, sustainability reporting, and financial technology will be necessary to stay competitive and relevant in the evolving landscape.

Overall, future graduates in accounting and finance will benefit from a combination of technical expertise, analytical skills, strategic thinking, ethical awareness, and a commitment to ongoing professional development.

I would say to stay resilient. Understand that career paths may not always be linear. Embrace challenges, setbacks, and learning opportunities as part of your growth journey. Stay resilient, adaptable, and open to new experiences and opportunities.