‘Finance is my ikigai’

Tejaswani Nanda is a Chartered Accountant at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. An alumnus of Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, she pursued B Com Hon (batch of 2018) and studied for her CA exam, simultaneously. In a brief interview, the finance expert gives tips to CA aspirants as well as explains how finance gives her a reason to get up every morning and learn something new. Edited excerpts: 

What does a day at the office look like?

A day at the office is very busy. I am part of the valuation control group. I look through the cash inventory. Also, I am part of private equity valuations here. 

What inspired you to pursue Chartered Accountancy?

Well, truth be told, I was good in finance and it did not cost much to be a CA, except the blood and sweat (laughs). So that was my motivation! I have a knack for finances, it gives me enough motivation to get up from the bed in the morning, and go to work and learn new things. It is my ikigai.

Some tips for CA aspirants

Prioritise your studies, maintain a proper balance and study on a daily basis, rather than just going all in towards the end.  

For those who are balancing their B Com Honours course alongside CA preparation, they end up missing a lot of their college life. They are only studying or interning all the time. So, I would suggest you plan enough trips for yourself every six months so you have stories to tell people. (laughs)

Tell us about your best memories from ACFA days?

Sitting in the park, talking to friends for hours and hours. Getting some snacks from the canteen, making random plans. Basically enjoying life.

Your future targets?

I am planning to study for CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst).  That is on the cards next.