Learning on the job opens doors for former Whanganui High School student

Former Whanganui High School student Brooke Polkinghorne, 27, right where she wants to be. Photo/Stuart Munro

For many graduates locking in a job after study can be a lengthy process but for former Whanganui High School student Brooke Polkinghorne it was no drama.

How? Well, in the third year of her accounting degree she started studying extramurally.

She worked for Doyle and Associates accounting firm in Whanganui three or four days a week while finishing her studies.

Not only was she given the opportunity to learn on the job but after graduating she secured a full-time position.

"It was a tough but I was on a steamroller to get it done and Doyles were really supportive," Brooke said.

And her hard work has certainly paid off.

Now, the 26-year-old is working at Balance Chartered Accountants in Whanganui.

"No day is the same ... it's always something different because everyone's business is different.

"It's a lot more face to face than I thought it would be and less behind the scenes work ... which I love."

Born and raised in Whanganui, Brooke said there is no place she'd rather be.

"It's a really supportive environment here. When you're in a town where everyone knows you and wants you to do well, it's a nice feeling to be supported."

The advice she gave to students considering a career in accounting was to be open-minded to having a secondary degree.

"Having a marketing demographic to support your degree is really positive because consultant work is becoming a big part of the job. Also use your contacts because it's often about who you know ... as well as making sure the boxes are ticked."

And to students unsure about what they want to do after they leave school, she said go away and explore what's out there.

"Don't dive into a degree you're not committed to because it's a waste of time and money."

She said the best and the most unexpected part of her job is working with people.