Starting as an intern and transitioning to a permanent part-time position while studying for CPA exams can be challenging, but it’s not impossible, especially in the right environment. Read about Bailey’s experience and how Shannon & Associates helped Bailey in her career journey.
Q: When did you start at Shannon & Associates? And how long have you been working there?
I was introduced to Shannon & Associates via a family friend at the firm. They spoke very highly of Shannon and its team, and after interviewing I had the feeling that this would be a great place to work. Fast forward to today – After interning for two years, I moved on to part-time intern work, and am now transitioning to a permanent part-time position while I study for the CPA exams.
Q: What is your current role at Shannon & Associates? Take us through a typical day.
Beyond tax returns, emails, and other work, my day consists of a great deal of on-the-job learning which involves being able to connect with other team members. Everyone is patient, willing to educate you, and helpful in many ways. And there are many skill sets here, so who I talk with depends on what I am working on at the moment.
The people and the atmosphere is why Shannon & Associates is a great place to work. The environment is conducive to learning – everyone is excited to help, wants to help, and has the experience to make me better. It’s similar to my school experience, where professors are more than willing to help. They are excited and want to share their knowledge. It’s the same at Shannon & Associates, and honestly, it’s one of the best parts of working here!
Shannon & Associates is the first CPA firm I have worked for. And after talking with friends, I am very happy with my choice!
Q: What have you gained from working at Shannon & Associates? Can you describe the career growth you’ve experienced?
The opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects is important to me, as it would be to anyone looking for an accounting firm conducive to career growth and expanding their knowledge. I am now studying for CPA exams, and I have learned there’s a variety of industry knowledge not seen at other firms.
And a bonus: Shannon lets you work on and learn what you want to work on! They give you that opportunity, and it helps me with school as well. I love learning about tax and auditing but have also learned a broad spectrum of accounting practices, so it’s almost like a second classroom.
Q: How has the Shannon team helped you in your career journey?
The mentorship program is amazing. I have had the same mentor since I started, and we have conversations about everything, from CPA exams to life in general. My mentor is more than willing to help me in any way possible. A primary Shannon value is to develop their people and build strong relationships, and it’s so true.
What makes Shannon & Associates a great place to work?
The environment and the people. Everyone is excited to help and wants to help. Their experience and support make me a better employee. Not to mention, their mentorship program is excellent. The Shannon team works to develop their people and build strong relationships, and they certainly act on that daily.
—Bailey Thomason
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Shannon & Associates?
I enjoy learning about the many sides of accounting and applying what I’ve learned to different aspects of my life, career, and more. I also value the flexibility of going to school and studying for the CPA exam while I am working. Julia Atwood, a partner at the firm, has been super accommodating!
Q: And a question about S&A Values: Collaborative and Mentoring, Accountable, Respect and Integrity, Excellence, Strive. Do any of those values stand out to you? If so, why?
Collaborative and Mentoring. The mentorship program has been so helpful. It’s nice to have the opportunity to participate in ongoing meetings with one core person. When I first started working at Shannon, I only knew one person at the firm, and my mentor made the transition more comfortable. It shows that the Shannon team lives by their values, works to understand your values, and extends an arm to make you feel comfortable and a key part of the team.
Q: How do you define success?
I would define success as being able to stay motivated and productive while also being able to grow. Being able to learn from mistakes is also a big factor that helps me grow and in the long run, succeed.
Q: What are your favorite things to do outside of the office?
Anything outdoors! I especially love snowboarding, hiking, and spending time with my dogs, Chester and Sasha. Stevens Pass is my favorite place to snowboard, and hiking Mt. Rainier is an amazing experience, every time!
Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? Why?
A volunteer. I am big into community service. And even though I have not been able to volunteer recently, I hope to in the future. I went to New Orleans, Louisiana three times during high school spring break to help build homes. I worked on projects organized by Shirts Across America in the Lower Ninth Ward of the city. My time in New Orleans was a powerful experience because I connected with people in the neighborhood, the Peace Corps, and learned a great deal about rebuilding homes.
Are you interested in joining our team?
Explore our careers page to learn about our culture, team spirit, and what it’s like to work at Shannon & Associates.
