Omar Herrera
Senior Audit Associate
KPMG
Lincoln Park, MI USA
“Do what makes you happy!”
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
As a first-generation college student and having non-English speaking parents I was on my own throughout the entire application and financial aid process.
I enrolled in a university after finishing my pre requisites at a community college and was told by the university I should consider changing my major after one semester.
Enrolled in a second university where I thought was a better fit for me and met many helpful classmates along the way.
After graduating with my bachelor's degree it came time to attempt the CPA exams. I failed my first two attempts and felt like quitting after that.
After passing my first one I felt like they were all possible so I had to change my study methods with tips from friends that were on the same boat as me.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Bachelor
Business Administration with a focus in Accounting
Wayne State University
Business Administration with a focus in Accounting
Wayne State University
Career
Senior Audit Associate
I ensure that companies' financial statements are free of material misstatements by examining records and documents.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Engineering
Numbers
Accomplishing Goals
Day to Day
There are so many moving components to what an audit entails but I will cover it all briefly. The audit begins with walkthroughs and documenting client processes and controls, if it is a publicly traded client we will evaluate the design and implementation of such controls. Additionally, we perform substantive procedures to ensure the financial statements are fairly states. This includes examining records for completeness, existence, accuracy, valuation, ownership, and presentation.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
I would say start with career fairs in college. It is important to get your resume out there and to get the recruiters and people from the firms to put a face to your name. Don't be shy and talk to people. This will make a lasting impression and they will consider you since they can remember you when sorting through all of the resumes!
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Bachelor
Business Administration with a focus in Accounting
Business Administration with a focus in Accounting
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Teachers:
"Don't get an accounting degree if you aren't pursuing a CPA, it is like being a bookkeeper."
Challenges I Overcame
First-Generation College Student
