It’s a bittersweet moment as Yanshan (Yancy) Liu graduates with a Master of Accounting. Full of mixed emotions, she’s taking a look back – grateful for her experience at The Australian National University (ANU); and looking forward, eager for what lies ahead.
Reflecting on her time as an ANU College of Business and Economics (CBE) student, it’s clear that the multitude of things Yancy loves about studying at ANU, she will miss in equal amounts.
“The friendships, group sports, academic assignments, and shared experiences created a supportive network that has made my academic journey not only successful, but enjoyable,” she says.
I will miss the rich cultural and extracurricular experiences that the University offers. From attending academic conferences, guest lectures, workshops, and cultural celebrations, to participating in clubs and societies, each event has contributed to my personal growth and allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals. This variety of activities has fostered a vibrant atmosphere that made my time at ANU truly memorable.
An academic highlight for Yancy was the Financial Statement Analysis course she undertook – a subject that challenged her to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, increasing her understanding of financial statements and their implications for business.
Yancy also credits the CBE Careers initiatives she completed as opportunities to apply the knowledge acquired in her studies in industry settings.
“Participating in Momentum and undertaking a CBE Internship have been instrumental for both my professional and personal development. They provided me with practical exposure to real-world scenarios, significantly enhancing my understanding of the accounting field.”
According to Yancy, the careers initiatives also boosted her confidence in collaborating with colleagues, helped her understand the essential soft skills required in the Australian workplace, broadened her perspective on potential career paths, and ultimately, prepared her for what’s next.
Overall, these experiences have equipped me with the essential capabilities to transition from student life to the professional world, serving as a solid bridge for my future career.
As a bright future in accounting beckons, Yancy reflects on how much she’ll miss the University itself.
“The campus, with its beautiful surroundings and study spaces, has provided the perfect backdrop for both learning and personal reflection. The lush lawns, winding rivers, and playful ducks in the water create a serene environment. One of my favourite moments is watching the sunset cast its warm glow on the Marie Reay Teaching Centre, a scene that encapsulates the tranquil beauty of ANU,” she shares.
These vivid memories have become an integral part of my experience here, serving as reminders of the balance between academic rigor and the importance of connecting with nature. The campus has not only facilitated my learning but has also provided me with peaceful moments to reflect on my journey and personal growth.
Yanshan (Yancy) Liu
An aspiring accounting professional, Yancy has recently graduated with a Master degree in Accounting. She has a strong foundation in basic accounting principles through both academic studies and practical experience. Yancy’s internship at the ANU Facilities and Services Division allowed her to focus on sophisticated spending analysis and procurement reporting. Additionally, she volunteered as a tax consultant at the ANU Tax Clinic, where she gained valuable insights into tax-related issues. Yancy has also worked in two financial institutions, contributing to macroeconomic research and serving as a Bond Underwriting Assistant. With a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, she actively seeks opportunities to enhance her knowledge and experience in financial services, accounting, and data analysis, while helping clients achieve their financial goals.
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