Q and A with a CPA: Meet Linda Raynier

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Q: What have you been doing since graduation?

A: I started full-time with EY as a senior accountant. I was a co-op student there during my time at Laurier. After successfully passing my CPA exams, I was able to obtain my CPA designation at the end of 2012. I knew early on that I didn't want to be a traditional accountant forever, so when I had the chance to make a move, I did. In 2013, I pivoted my career and became a top recruiter/headhunter for a mid-sized recruitment firm in Toronto.

I placed over 200+ professionals in careers from financial analyst up to CFO level. After three years of doing that, I had a desire to work for myself. So, in 2016, I quit my job and started my online career coaching business. At first, I worked with clients in person, locally in the GTA area. But once my YouTube channel (Linda Raynier) started to grow in followers as I shared my expertise on careers, job search, resume and interview strategies through videos, I began getting interest from clients from all over the world and now I work with all my clients over Skype. 

Q: What was the most memorable part of your degree experience?

A: The most memorable part of the BBA co-op program at Laurier was my third-year summer semester. It was a time when I started to really grow out of my shell and made more friends from attending the summer events that were organized. The class sizes were smaller as well, so being able to get to know my classmates that way just made the experience fun and enjoyable. 

Q: How has your degree helped you in your career?

A: My BBA taught me important business, marketing and financial concepts that I wouldn't have now if I had not taken the program. But, most importantly, because of Laurier's reputation and the personal growth I went through alongside other ambitious, bright students, it gave me a strong foundation and the confidence to move forward in my career. The BBA co-op program helped influence my decision to take the CPA route which has had a significant impact on the career I do now. 

Q: What's next on the horizon?

A: I'll continue to expand my reach and business to new programs and offerings. I currently have a course called "Top Notch Resume" that has helped many professionals get interviews and job offers. I plan to develop more of these in the future. 

Q: What advice would you give to students thinking about whether or not to choose Laurier? 

A: Advice that I would give to students thinking about whether or not to choose Laurier is to choose Laurier if, after visiting the campus, you truly feel excited and can see yourself having a great time at the school. I had visited different campuses and schools but something about Laurier spoke to me. I loved the small community feel, the challenging program and the friendly classmates I had. I ended up meeting my current husband at Laurier, so I truly felt it was meant to be. Ask yourself how you feel; if you felt drawn to Laurier, listen to that voice. 

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