Hello everyone! My name is Prachi, and I am a Global Finance Associate in the Activate Strategic Functions New Graduate Development Program. I recently graduated from the Smith School of Business at Queen's University in April 2021 with a Bachelor of Commerce specializing in Finance.
When searching for full-time opportunities, I focused on finding a company that I would be proud to work for and could provide an abundance of opportunities to grow and succeed. My journey at Scotiabank started when I came across the Activate Your Future Launch Event introducing the program. Throughout my interactions with the Campus team and numerous coffee chats along the way, I was drawn in by Scotiabank's culture and values as they aligned with my own. I quickly realized this was the team that I wanted to be a part of and a company that had everything I was looking for in an employer. Since starting at Scotiabank, I’ve felt immense pride in being part of this team and gratitude for the amazing individuals that I learn from each day!
When I learned about the Activate program, I was incredibly eager to join. I’ve had experience working in this area at other companies, but in a program such as Activate, I'd be able to gain exposure to multiple departments as well as build a better understanding of the structure of the business. I was excited as this program would allow me the opportunity to work within Strategic Functions again. In addition, the chance to rotate through different areas of finance while being supported by mentors along the way made this an opportunity that I could not resist.
It is hard to believe that five months have passed, and I am already nearing the end of my first rotation. These past few months, I’ve been a part of the Canadian Banking (CB) Balance Sheet Analysis & Review team. I have been tasked with taking a deep dive into and analyzing the CB Balance Sheet and have learned a great deal about the various CB business lines. In this short amount of time, I’ve already learned a great deal of knowledge and insight that I can take with me in the challenges ahead.
Of the many highlights of my time at Scotia so far, the first that comes to mind is the amazing people I have met. The Canadian Banking team has been so welcoming and they have truly made me feel part of the team. Whenever I feel that I am struggling, I know I can reach out and ask questions to get their advice. I am super grateful for their support and hope to meet them in person someday! I am also thankful to be part of the Activate community. I’ve had the privilege of joining the Social Committee as the VP of Marketing where I help connect the Activate community in our remote work environment. I am so happy for all the connections I’ve made within this community and I look forward to growing with everyone!
My advice to students is to see everything as an opportunity! Raise your hand and take on any challenge you can, big or small. There's something to learn in every task, every project, and every conversation. I am a big fan of viewing everything in life as a learning opportunity as it pushes me to do things that I may not otherwise!
Interested in learning more about our Activate program and how to apply? Click here!
