From junior to certified: chasing new heights of development

For me, the ASPAAS programme was an experience that boosted both my personal and my professional development. During my first year I had the opportunity to learn and put into practice the theoretical knowledge I had acquired, gaining a better understanding of the responsibilities that come with the auditor profession.

Ultimately, the professional experience gained at Forvis Mazars allowed me to have my traineeship credited as an equivalent. I am currently preparing for my final exam and I am delighted to be just one step away from obtaining my certification.

My team played a vital role throughout the programme, constantly encouraging me to persevere and to make the most out of this opportunity. Having their constant support and being able to grow in an environment that encourages continuous learning gave me the confidence and motivation to see this project through to the end.

Ioana Chiriac Manager, Audit & Assurance

Attending the courses of Beyond Business School has been one of the most valuable development experiences of recent years. The programme has given me greater clarity on topics I was already dealing with in my role as a manager, such as team coordination and building a culture based on feedback. At the same time, it has given me new perspectives in areas such as artificial intelligence, business strategy, venture capital and entrepreneurship.

One of the most important lessons I learnt was that technology and AI do not replace creativity and critical thinking but can enhance them when used as tools for learning and challenging your own ideas. The experience also reinforced my belief that a team's success is built on quality relationships, discipline, transparency and embracing vulnerability, not just technical expertise.

The final project, which I developed and presented to a panel that included investors, gave me the confidence that I can turn ideas into concrete initiatives beyond my day-to-day professional work. The fact that I completed the entire programme at the same time as the audit busy season showed me that limits are often based on our own perceptions rather than on reality. This confirmed one of the lessons that stayed with me after Beyond Business School: success is not about motivation, but about discipline.

At the same time, I've come to realise that leaders and teams are truly forged during difficult times, because, as I learnt on the programme, if you can't lead your team through tough times, you'll never make it through the good ones.

Cristina Nimerenco Manager, Audit & Assurance, Beyond Business School graduate