Graduate recruitment spotlight: Shauna Durack

What is your role and team? Where and what did you study?

My name is Shauna Durack and I am an Accounting & Outsourcing Graduate based in the Limerick office. I joined the firm as part of the graduate programme and work with a variety of clients across different industries, supporting them with their accounting and financial reporting requirements.

Before joining the firm, I studied Business at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) in Limerick. My studies gave me a strong foundation in accounting principles and business practices, but I've really enjoyed seeing how those concepts are applied in a professional environment and continuing to develop my skills through hands-on experience.

What was it like being involved in the graduate recruitment photoshoot and interviews, and what did you enjoy most about the experience?

Being involved in this year's graduate recruitment campaign is a really enjoyable experience. At first, it was a little outside my comfort zone, but everyone involved has been incredibly supportive and made the shoot day feel relaxed and enjoyable. It is great to have the opportunity to represent the graduate programme and share my experience with potential future applicants.

The part I enjoyed most was meeting colleagues from different offices and service lines and hearing about their own career journeys. It is also rewarding to reflect on how much I've learned since joining the firm and to be able to highlight the positive aspects of the graduate experience. Overall, it is a memorable experience and one that is helping build my confidence and I look forward to sharing my journey at the upcoming grad fairs.

Watch Shauna’s “day in the life” video about her graduate campaign shoot experience.

Outside of the technical skills, what has been the biggest personal or professional lesson you've learned during your traineeship?

One of the biggest lessons I've learned during my traineeship has been the importance of confidence and communication. Coming straight from college, it's natural to feel that you don't have all the answers, but I've learned that asking questions, seeking feedback and being open to learning are some of the best ways to develop professionally.

I've also learned the value of building strong relationships with colleagues. Everyone is willing to share their knowledge and support each other, which has helped me grow both professionally and personally. Learning to manage priorities, adapt to new challenges and trust in my own abilities has been just as valuable as the technical skills I've gained.

What has surprised you most about working in professional services?

What surprised me most was the variety of work and the level of exposure graduates receive from an early stage. Before joining, I expected that it would take a long time to become involved in meaningful client work, but I quickly found myself working on a broad range of assignments and taking on responsibility with support from my team.

What's something your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?

Something my colleagues might be surprised to learn about me is that I'm quite adventurous and enjoy trying new experiences whenever I get the chance. Whether it's travelling, exploring new places or taking on a challenge outside my comfort zone, I always like to push myself to try something different.

What are three words that sum up your experience of working here?

Friendly, welcoming and supportive.