Alumni Spotlight
Year 11 Students Gain Real-World Insights at KPMG Industry Session
On Thursday 30 April, our Year 11 Accounting and Business Management students attended an Industry Insight Session at KPMG, made possible through OurSchool, who deliver the alumni program at Berwick College, and with sincere thanks to KPMG for generously hosting the group.
The purpose of the session was to provide students with meaningful exposure to the professional services industry, connecting them with alumni from public high schools now working at KPMG. Students gained valuable insight into the corporate workplace, different business areas and teams, as well as post-school pathways including university study, graduate programs, and the transition from student life into full-time employment.
The day commenced with an engaging panel discussion featuring professionals who shared their personal journeys to KPMG. Their stories were open, relatable, and provided practical advice for students considering their future pathways.
Key takeaways from the panel included:
Erick Zhou (Workforce Advisory) reminded students that their final results are influenced by overall class performance, highlighting the importance of building each other up and working as a team. He encouraged students to support one another and to save competition for other schools, rather than within their own cohort.
Lauren Palmer (Workplace Relations Advisory) reassured students that it is perfectly normal not to have a fully mapped-out plan at this stage. She encouraged students to keep their options open by choosing broad pathways and subjects that genuinely interest them, as these can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Tiffiny Argyropoulos (Financial Services Consultant) shared her experience of being the first person in her family to pursue tertiary education, demonstrating that hard work and persistence can open doors. She also reminded students of the importance of balance, encouraging them to make time for enjoyment and life outside of study.
Mark Geels (Partner – Technology Implementation) emphasised that while academic results and qualifications are important, students can also stand out through their involvement in activities such as volunteering, part-time work, sport, and personal passions. These experiences help build character, demonstrate time management, and show a well-rounded approach to life.
For our students, the ABSOLUTE highlight of the day was a tour led by Berwick College Alumni Rhiannon Watt (Class of 2005), now Chief of Staff - Consulting at KPMG. Whilst having our very own boardroom meeting, overlooking Melbourne, students gained a real sense of what’s possible. Rhi shared her less-than-traditional pathway (a story for another time!) and showed just how far a Berwick College student can go.
We extend our sincere thanks to KPMG and their team for warmly welcoming our students and generously sharing their time, experiences, and insights. The day was highly engaging and impactful, encouraging students to think big and consider the many possibilities available to them beyond school.
If you are a Berwick College alum or know an alum with a great story to share, we would love to hear from you.
Please reach out to our Alumni Program Coordinator, Jessica, to get involved – alumni@berwickcollege.vic.edu.au