Tell us about yourself.

I went to Baylor University where I studied accounting, supply chain management, and math. I also got a Master of Accountancy. Outside of work, I love to bake and cook, knit, take care of my dog, and I’m a big activities person (movies, arcades, go karts, mini golf, etc.). I’m a Christian, which takes up a good bit of my time too. My main talent is binge-watching shows. Usually, I can get through a season in a day. On the weekend, you can catch me at Zumba with Simone (another ADP), church, brunch, and watching TV with my dog.

What is the Accounting Development Program (ADP)? How does it set up its members for successful careers?

ADP is a three-year, global program that allows accountants early in their careers to get a breadth of experience in an industry environment. It is ideal for people who want to have variety of work or don’t know what they want to specialize in, but who also don’t want to work the hours that public accounting requires. 

ADP sets up accountants for success by providing a wide range of experience, exposing them to the finance function, and giving them plenty of opportunities to network. ADPs receive executive exposure through presentations, training in fundamental business skills, and a community of people their age to start work with. It also has an accelerated promotion track, so your performance can translate into actual career progression.

Why did you decide to join ADP?

I decided to join ADP because I wanted the industry equivalent of working at a Big Four company. In accounting, it can be hard to have career growth without Big Four experience, but development programs like Dell’s have gained reputability and are often seen as equivalent to early public exposure. In ADP, I’m able to learn a ton, grow my career, and get the coveted line on my resume without sacrificing my personal life.

I also joined ADP because I wanted to work with other recent grads. It can be isolating to be the only recent grad in a room, so having people I can learn from, be supported by, and grow with is my favorite part of the program. My cohort is super close, so even if I’m struggling at work, I never feel alone. I have a whole group of people I can talk to and get help from.

What is one of the most impactful moments of your ADP experience?

The friends I’ve made are the most impactful! Having people you are comfortable with at work makes a world of a difference. My cohort is very supportive of each other and is always looking out to make sure we succeed together. We never feel pressure to have all the answers because we know at least one of us will be able to figure things out. It really is a team effort and like a little family. It feels a lot more like we’re a group of friends who happen to work together, rather than just coworkers.

Could you highlight any standout projects or opportunities you’ve had a chance to work on as part of the APD program?

As a year one ADP, we got to do individual research projects where we learned from subject matter experts about different areas of Dell. For instance, I got to learn about our procurement strategy and give a presentation on what I learned to some accounting managers. It was an interesting topic and a great opportunity to network with people I would have not crossed paths with otherwise.

Would you recommend the program to other graduates?

Yes! If you are a hard-working problem-solver who is willing to take on challenges but also wants work/life balance, this is the program to be in. It is a great foundation for career progression and allows you to learn a lot very early on.

To learn more about life at Dell, visit Our Stories.