Arunava shares his journey going from being an Accountant to a master’s student in Project Management at RGU.
Hey there, fellow trailblazers! Today, I’m excited to share my rollercoaster ride from the world of numbers to the dynamic realm of project management. So, grab your favourite brew and settle in as I take you through the twists and turns of my professional odyssey.
Embarking on this journey wasn’t a decision made overnight. It was a gradual realisation born out of years spent crunching numbers, navigating tax codes, and analysing financial statements.
Yet, as I delved deeper into the intricacies of public accounting with industry giants like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and RSM, I began to sense an underlying desire for something more dynamic, something that would allow me to not only interpret financial data but also lead teams and drive impactful projects.
Thus, my journey from accounting to project management began. A journey filled with challenges, triumphs, sacrifices, and ultimately, profound growth.
1. Accounting: A stepping stone to something greater
The foundation of my professional journey was laid in the halls of public accounting. From the early days of navigating complex tax codes to analysing intricate financial statements, I found myself knee-deep in numbers. Working with renowned firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and RSM provided me with invaluable experience and insights into the inner workings of financial systems.
However, as the years passed, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was something more awaiting me beyond the confines of traditional accounting roles.
2. Embracing change: Transitioning to Project Management
It was during my tenure at PwC that the seeds of change were sown. While managing projects and resources, I discovered a passion for project management – a realm where I could leverage my analytical skills while also exercising leadership and coordination abilities.
This realisation marked the beginning of my transition from tax accountant to project management enthusiast. Despite the initial challenges of navigating a new field, my aptitude for stakeholder management and effective communication served as guiding lights, propelling me forward.
3. Mastering the craft: Certifications and beyond
Fueled by my newfound passion, I embarked on a journey of professional development, pursuing coveted certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Professional Scrum Master (PSMI), and Prince 2 practitioner.
Each certification represented a milestone in my journey, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the world of project management. Through relentless dedication and meticulous study, I solidified my position within the elite fraternity of project management professionals.
4. Bridging the gap: Recognising industry needs
As I delved deeper into the field of project management, I couldn’t ignore the glaring gap between theory and practice. Despite the abundance of project management methodologies and frameworks, there seemed to be a scarcity of qualified professionals capable of bridging the divide.
This realisation spurred me to delve deeper into the intricacies of project leadership, understanding its pivotal role in delivering successful outcomes. Armed with this knowledge, I sought to become not just a project manager, but a leader capable of driving meaningful change.
5. Seizing opportunities: Exploring the UK market
Eager to expand my horizons, I set my sights on the UK market, particularly the oil and gas sector. Thus, I made the decision to pursue a master’s degree in Project Management from RGU.
Renowned for its excellence in project management education, RGU’s Aberdeen Business School is accredited by AACSB, and its master’s degree is accredited by the Association for Project Management (APM) and by the PMI Global Accreditation Centre (GAC). This degree offered all the elements necessary to gain an in-depth understanding of project management studies, providing me with a solid foundation to excel in the field.
6. Sacrifices and success: Juggling family, studies, and certifications
The pursuit of excellence often demands sacrifices, and my journey was no exception. Balancing the demands of family, coursework, certifications, and a part-time job required unwavering dedication and resilience.
There were nights when sleep seemed like a luxury, as I poured over textbooks and course materials, fuelled by the relentless pursuit of knowledge and growth. Yet, with each challenge overcome, I emerged stronger and more determined than ever before.
7. Gaining practical experience: Working with industry leaders
One of the highlights of my journey was the opportunity to work with industry leaders like Schlumberger during my master’s program. This hands-on experience provided me with invaluable insights into the complexities of oil and gas projects, further solidifying my confidence in my abilities as a project management professional.
Collaborating with seasoned professionals in the field not only enriched my understanding of project management but also expanded my professional network, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
After working with Schlumberger for a year, I was offered an extension on my contract. The entire journey with Schlumberger has given me a thorough understanding of oil and gas and how important is communication and stakeholder management in the real world.
Conclusion and tips for new and prospective students
My journey from accounting to project management has been nothing short of transformative. It has tested my limits, challenged my assumptions, and ultimately, propelled me towards personal and professional growth.
As I look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the world of project management. With passion as my compass and resilience as my guiding light, I am ready to embrace whatever challenges and adventures come my way, confident in my ability to thrive in the chaos.
To students, I would say it’s about believing in yourself. Keep up the good work, manage your time, plan efficiently and push yourself to move forward. Challenges will come, but remember the toughest challenges bring the best rewards in life.
Arunava Maitra
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