Judy Zhou
Audit
I'm Judy, I'm from China and I hold a Master's degree in Strategic Management from UCD Smurfit Graduate Business School. I studied economics before that at Shanxi University of Finance and Economics.
While I studied, I worked in the retail industry for over six years. I like working in a fast-paced, results-driven environment. I’ve always been quite goal orientated.
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“I’ve found a career I love, and a job I’m proud of.”
Join the next generation of audit experts at Forvis Mazars.
Judy Zhou, Audit Associate
Tell us a bit about your background before Forvis Mazars
Audit work excited me because of the responsibility, the diverse clients and the variety of sectors I could work in. Forvis Mazars is a top-eight accounting firm and has lots of professional development opportunities which is important for my growth. I enjoyed the audit and corporate finance projects in college, particularly the strategic thinking element and using my finance knowledge.
I researched auditor roles and sought insights from alumni and career centre consultants. I learned auditing requires lots of skills I felt were my strengths. I also felt my values aligned with Forvis Mazars' core principles and it's a diverse company - with employees from all walks of life. That appealed to me.
What made you choose your current career and what appealed to you about Forvis Mazars?
My family, especially my mother. Her wisdom has shaped my approach to challenges and decisions. Whenever I face tough situations and feel anxious, she reminds me that "where there's a will, there's a way." Her unwavering support has been pivotal, like when I decided to pursue a master's degree and work outside China. My mentor Leslie at Forvis Mazars has also had a significant impact on my professional growth. From the moment I joined, she patiently guided me in handling different scenarios and effective communication with colleagues and clients. During times of intense work pressure, she provided invaluable one-on-one sessions that helped me manage stress and find solutions.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on you growing up?
It exceeded my expectations and was full of pleasant surprises. The first week was training, which helped me get to know my fellow Level 1 colleagues. We were assigned mentors and buddies of different levels. My buddy was great. He offered continuous support and encouragement. If I had questions, he assisted me and consulted others to ensure my queries were resolved. This support network has helped me integrate into Forvis Mazars and get up to speed with my responsibilities.
What surprised me the most was the encouragement from senior colleagues. They consistently took the time to explain tasks in detail, not just telling me how to do something but also explaining the reasons behind each step. This accelerated my learning and made me feel valued and motivated. We had firm social nights which provided opportunities to bond with colleagues across the firm.
How were the first few months of our graduate programme?
I either take the Luas or walk to work. From 9.00-10.00am, I participate in team meetings, to align our objectives and tasks for the day. Following this, I focus time from 10:00-11:00am and 11:15-1:00pm to work on engagements.
I take a coffee break at 11:00am and lunch from 1.00-2.00pm which I take with my colleagues for a catch-up. When weather permits, we take a walk in the park nearby.
My afternoon work includes client meetings, monthly catch-ups with colleagues/mentors and continued engagement work. This structured approach helps me stay organised and proactive in my tasks.
I try to balance study and social life. Some evenings I dine with friends or coworkers and other evenings I dedicate myself to preparing for the ACA exam. Occasionally, I take park walks or go to yoga to unwind. Our monthly department social nights provide a great opportunity to further connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting.
Can you describe a typical day at Forvis Mazars?
The culture and work environment at Forvis Mazars are both supportive and collaborative, which has greatly contributed to my professional growth and overall satisfaction. Teamwork is highly valued. Our team have regular meetings to align on objectives and discuss project progress.
I have built strong relationships with my peers. We have regular Level 1 catch-ups. Our camaraderie creates a supportive environment where we can navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.
Colleagues and managers at Forvis Mazars are approachable and supportive. They provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring I understand the rationale behind tasks and offering constructive feedback to aid my professional development. Their encouragement and recognition of my contributions have boosted my confidence. Overall, the culture here promotes open communication, teamwork and continuous learning. It's a stimulating environment, where collaboration thrives and I feel valued and motivated to perform at my best every day.
Describe the culture and work environment here
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for our graduate programme?
Don't hesitate, go ahead and apply! Forvis Mazars embraces diversity and really supports trainees in the graduate programme. You can work comfortably and enjoyably and experience significant personal growth. Don't let not having a background that doesn't perfectly match the field hold you back. What matters most is your willingness to take on challenges. For the application, showcase your enthusiasm and demonstrate how your skills and experiences can contribute to Forvis Mazars' team. Highlight relevant coursework, projects or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your ability to excel in a professional environment. During the interview process, research the company thoroughly. Understand its values, services and recent projects. Practice interview questions and align your background and skills with the role. If you're passionate about growth, detail-oriented and eager to embrace challenges, I encourage you to apply to Forvis Mazars' graduate programme. It's a fantastic opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment where diversity is celebrated, and personal development is prioritised.
Be eager to learn and improve and ask lots of questions. Use any feedback on your performance, it can help with your development. You can expect some setbacks and challenges along the way, but it's how you handle these that counts, stay positive. It's also good to set goals to keep motivated
What advice would you give to current graduates who are just starting their careers?
Judy talks about her experience in Forvis Mazars Graduate Programme and how it has shaped her career path.
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Supporting your growth, development and sense of belonging
Graduate FAQ’s
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Why join the Forvis Mazars graduate programme?
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Q&A with Judy
Audit work excited me because of the responsibility, the diverse clients and the variety of sectors I could work in. Forvis Mazars is a top-eight accounting firm and has lots of professional development opportunities which is important for my growth. I enjoyed the audit and corporate finance projects in college, particularly the strategic thinking element and using my finance knowledge.
I researched auditor roles and sought insights from alumni and career centre consultants. I learned auditing requires lots of skills I felt were my strengths. I also felt my values aligned with Forvis Mazars' core principles and it's a diverse company - with employees from all walks of life. That appealed to me.
What made you choose your current career and what appealed
to you about Forvis Mazars?
My family, especially my mother. Her wisdom has shaped my approach to challenges and decisions. Whenever I face tough situations and feel anxious, she reminds me that "where there's a will, there's a way." Her unwavering support has been pivotal, like when I decided to pursue a master's degree and work outside China. My mentor Leslie at Forvis Mazars has also had a significant impact on my professional growth. From the moment I joined, she patiently guided me in handling different scenarios and effective communication with colleagues and clients. During times of intense work pressure, she provided invaluable one-on-one sessions that helped me manage stress and find solutions.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on you growing up?
I was quite nervous starting off as I didn’t know anyone and hoped I would make friends/fit well into my team. I attended the Promotions evening which allowed me to meet other interns that would be starting at a similar time to me. This was a good idea as I then recognised a few people at the intern introduction/training days once we all started, making me feel a lot more at ease.
My team were extremely helpful and welcoming and ensured I was not afraid to ask questions. The open and welcoming environment on my team (and floor generally) was key to settling in and made the first few weeks far less daunting. It was our busiest time of year when I started and although the workload was a lot to begin with, my team gave me support so that nothing became overwhelming.
How were the first few months of our graduate programme?
I either take the Luas or walk to work. From 9.00-10.00am, I participate in team meetings, to align our objectives and tasks for the day. Following this, I focus time from 10:00-11:00am and 11:15-1:00pm to work on engagements.
I take a coffee break at 11:00am and lunch from 1.00-2.00pm which I take with my colleagues for a catch-up. When weather permits, we take a walk in the park nearby.
My afternoon work includes client meetings, monthly catch-ups with colleagues/mentors and continued engagement work. This structured approach helps me stay organised and proactive in my tasks.
I try to balance study and social life. Some evenings I dine with friends or coworkers and other evenings I dedicate myself to preparing for the ACA exam. Occasionally, I take park walks or go to yoga to unwind. Our monthly department social nights provide a great opportunity to further connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting.
Can you describe a typical day at Forvis Mazars?
The culture and work environment at Forvis Mazars are both supportive and collaborative, which has greatly contributed to my professional growth and overall satisfaction. Teamwork is highly valued. Our team have regular meetings to align on objectives and discuss project progress.
I have built strong relationships with my peers. We have regular Level 1 catch-ups. Our camaraderie creates a supportive environment where we can navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.
Colleagues and managers at Forvis Mazars are approachable and supportive. They provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring I understand the rationale behind tasks and offering constructive feedback to aid my professional development. Their encouragement and recognition of my contributions have boosted my confidence. Overall, the culture here promotes open communication, teamwork and continuous learning. It's a stimulating environment, where collaboration thrives and I feel valued and motivated to perform at my best every day.
Describe the culture and work environment here
Don't hesitate, go ahead and apply! Forvis Mazars embraces diversity and really supports trainees in the graduate programme. You can work comfortably and enjoyably and experience significant personal growth. Don't let not having a background that doesn't perfectly match the field hold you back. What matters most is your willingness to take on challenges. For the application, showcase your enthusiasm and demonstrate how your skills and experiences can contribute to Forvis Mazars' team. Highlight relevant coursework, projects or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your ability to excel in a professional environment. During the interview process, research the company thoroughly. Understand its values, services and recent projects. Practice interview questions and align your background and skills with the role. If you're passionate about growth, detail-oriented and eager to embrace challenges, I encourage you to apply to Forvis Mazars' graduate programme. It's a fantastic opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment where diversity is celebrated, and personal development is prioritised.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for our graduate programme?
Be eager to learn and improve and ask lots of questions. Use any feedback on your performance, it can help with your development. You can expect some setbacks and challenges along the way, but it's how you handle these that counts, stay positive. It's also good to set goals to keep motivated
What advice would you give to current graduates who are just starting their careers?
Apply now
More
about audit
Hear from our
current associates
Apply now
More
about audit
Hear from our
current associates
Download the Gen You graduate brochure.
The application, assessment and recruitment process
Your pathway to success
Learn more about our graduate programme
Learn more about our offerings in audit, tax, consulting and more
Graduate Rewards & Benefits
Our benefits support your professional development, wellbeing and growth
Your development & wellness
Supporting your growth, development and sense of belonging
Why join the Forvis Mazars graduate programme?
Unique offer & rewards & Benefits
Graduate FAQ’s
Find the answers to our most frequently asked questions
Download the Gen You graduate brochure
Learn more about our offerings in audit, tax, consulting and more
Apply now
More
about audit
Hear from our
current associates
Apply now
More
about audit
Hear from our
current associates