‘Sometimes I still feel like the little schoolgirl I once was’

Ms Aadvika Sood, an alumna of Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg (Batch 2020), exemplifies the journey from schoolgirl dreams to professional excellence. Today, she is an Associate Consultant at KPMG India, specialising in Risk Advisory and Consulting, and is a CFA Level 2 candidate. Aadvika shares her insights on balancing professional commitments with advanced certifications, essential skills for consulting, and how students can prepare early for a successful career in finance.

Read edited excerpts:

How has your journey from Apeejay School to KPMG been so far?

It’s been surreal! Sometimes I still feel like the little schoolgirl I once was, yet I’m working with a team of 20 and handling multiple projects. The journey has been incredibly fulfilling and has taught me to juggle responsibilities while continuously learning.

What does your role at KPMG involve, and what skills are essential for consulting and risk advisory?

I work as an Associate Consultant handling advisory operations. Problem-solving, curiosity, attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills, and comfort with numbers are crucial. Communication is key, especially since we interact with clients and colleagues globally.

You’re also pursuing CFA. How do you balance it with your job, and why did you choose it?

Planning is everything. I create a month-wise roadmap, set achievable daily goals, and utilise weekends effectively. CFA aligns perfectly with my role, and KPMG provides a supportive environment for professional certifications.

Could you explain CFA for students interested in finance, and is it suitable for those from non-finance backgrounds?

CFA, or Chartered Financial Analyst, is a three-level US-based designation respected in finance, consulting, and advisory. The curriculum is rigorous, detailed, and immersive. There’s no prerequisite, arts or science students can excel too, bringing transferable skills to the table.

What advice would you give to students aspiring for careers in finance, consulting, or risk advisory?

Start early. Focus on colleges and courses that align with your goals, as they shape your professional journey. Build a strong foundation, aim for genuine achievements, and develop skills like problem-solving, communication, and number-crunching.

How do you approach CFA preparation, and what career opportunities does it open?

Consistency and planning are key. I set realistic daily targets and ensure any missed work is quickly caught up. CFA opens doors in investment banking, valuations, consulting, advisory, and audit. For professionals, it’s a major skill and profile booster.

Any myths about consulting or CFA you’d like to bust?

Many think consulting lacks work-life balance or that CFA is just a tough exam. That’s not true, proper planning and genuine interest make both achievable and fulfilling.