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Nicolas Robert secured much more than a job at the age of 24. His role allowed him to grow, push his limits and contribute from day one.
Many people think that accounting is nothing more than figures. So did Nicolas. He even failed his Secondary IV maths exam! However, everything fell into place after embarking on a CEGEP Technical Certificate in Accounting course. He is currently enrolled in an Advanced Graduate Diploma course in Rouyn-Noranda.
“I like working with numbers, but not creating complex equations. Accounting is tangible because we really help businesses to understand their finances.”
Real world experience from the age of 20
What did Nicolas think of his first internship at RCGT? It was a revelation. At 20, he was certainly one of the youngest interns ever at the Val-d’Or office.
“Initially, I was afraid of not being up to the task, but it went very well because everyone on the team took me under their wing.”
The mentoring system immediately reassured Nicolas. “The person assigned to me was available to answer all my questions. That takes the pressure off and you can focus on learning every day.”
Which tasks was Nicolas entrusted with? Compilation engagements, corporate tax returns and work on real client files. “Even during my first internship, I was doing important work. Not just filing!”
An internship becomes an adventure
During Nicolas’s second internship, RCGT offered him an unforgettable experience: 10 days in Northern Quebec working with an Indigenous client. “During my time there, I learned a lot about how the community lives and their economic reality. My three teammates and I worked together on a major assignment.”
This engagement left such an impression on Nicolas that he returned the following year. “Working as a team on a project like that and delivering financial statements on time was very satisfying. And I had a truly unique learning experience.”
Variety is the spice of life
What does Nicolas appreciate at RCGT? The diverse range of clients. “It’s never boring at the firm. One day you’re working for a forestry company and the next day, it could be a municipality or a restaurant. Each client has their own set of challenges.”
This variety motivates Nicolas far more than a traditional corporate role. “I’ve never been interested in working for one client only. I need to work on a wide range of projects.”
Nicolas is currently on his fifth internship and he shares his passion with new recruits. “I really enjoy supporting the new interns. I remember my early days so I know how they’re feeling.”
His mentorship role allows him to create a connection and reassure interns just as his mentors did. “I show them how to apply what we learned in our studies to real life. This helps them to see how important our work is.”
Setting the bar very high
Nicolas gives each project his all. During one of his internships, a colleague joked that “If you get a 4.3 grade point average for your Bachelor’s Degree, I’ll build a statue in your honour!”
Nicolas took this challenge seriously. “It was a crazy goal so I didn’t tell anyone about it, but it motivated me throughout my studies.”
Even though Nicolas didn’t get a 4.3 GPA, his determination led to something more impressive: a Governor General’s Academic Medal. “I didn’t even know this award existed! But it shows that giving your all can pay off.”
Ambition as a driving force
When it comes to his future at RCGT, Nicolas aims high. “What’s my objective? Becoming a partner one day. I know that it takes a lot of work, but if I can get the opportunity, that’s where I see myself.”
This ambition is backed by strong conviction. “Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton is the largest accounting firm in Quebec. The sky’s the limit. We have all the tools and specialties. There are endless opportunities.”
Are you up for the challenge?
Are you still unsure? Nicolas’s message is clear. “RCGT is the best place to build your career. There’s so much variety: from the smallest SMEs to large clients in a range of sectors. There are specialists who can help you. And, most importantly, they trust you from day one.”
After receiving a Governor General’s Academic medal, Nicolas is now focusing on his next challenge: his CPA exam in September. And what comes after that designation? The real adventure can begin.