DCU Business School Accounting & Finance Students Participate in KPMG Ireland Insight Day

Some of Dublin City University (DCU) Business School’s second-year undergraduate students recently joined KPMG Ireland for an immersive Insight Day. This visit provided students with an in-depth look at the career paths, culture, and skill sets that shape success within one of Ireland’s leading professional services firms.

The purpose of the event is to give DCU students exposure to life at KPMG, demonstrating the practical career opportunities available to new graduates in professional services. A range of structured activities enriched the day, including a presentation by DCU alumnus and KPMG Partner, Joe O’Mara, who shared his journey from student to Partner, highlighting the importance of pursuing a career path that offers both challenge and fulfilment. “Listening to Joe O’Mara share his academic and professional journey, along with his perspective on the value of continuous learning, ignited a positive energy in our students as they begin planning their own career paths” stated Dr Julie Bertz.

A critical thinking workshop challenged students to apply decision-making techniques to a complex business scenario, fostering essential skills in group dynamics and problem-solving. Students tackled a business dilemma, analysing it from multiple viewpoints through methods like dialectic reasoning and devil’s advocacy. This exercise illustrated the importance of critical thinking in business contexts, enabling students to recognise the impact of collaborative analysis and avoid common pitfalls like groupthink.

The Insight Day also featured a session on effective communication delivered by The Communications Clinic and a networking lunch with KPMG staff, including recent graduates. These interactions gave DCU students the opportunity to engage directly with professionals who have successfully transitioned from academic to full-time roles, allowing them to gain insights into KPMG’s supportive, growth-oriented work culture.

“This visit is a valuable experience for our students’ professional development,” said Dr. Julie Bertz. “Not only do our students gain exposure to the high standards expected within the industry, but they also have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and communication skills in a hands-on setting.”