How my interest in finance got me an internship at TAXAVTAAR -By Sidra Siddiqui from Lakshmibai College

Being a young girl in 11th grade with almost nil knowledge of finance I always had this strange fascination with the field. I used to connect with CAs around the globe on LinkedIn and spend most of my days watching YouTube videos on accountancy. I guess my long-cherished dream to intern with a renowned CA was fulfilled in the summers of 2019 when TAXAVTAAR visited our college for an internship drive.

The selection process for an internship at TAXAVTAAR

First, the CVs were scrutinized which was followed by a group discussion to select the students, and then there was a personal interview with the HR head. For me, group discussion was the most exciting step in the whole procedure and it gave a boost to my confidence. I was so thrilled during the whole process that even the HR head asked me the reason for me being so excited.

Even though I was happy and carried a wide smile on my face all along, I was anxious until the results were announced. And my name was on the list of selected students. I was above the moon when I saw my name on the list. But I didn’t want to celebrate right away and so I decided to go back to my hostel and thus, spent the entire night studying about the company and finance basics.

Orientation and induction training

For me, the first day of my internship at TAXAVTAAR was just like the first board exam day. I entered through the office door all suited up and anxious, of course! And then I was allotted a team. My team included majorly college students, and within no time I gelled up with my teammates and we were given training on how to file ITR and GST returns. We had a theory class for 2 days and then on the third day, we were assigned the first task.

When I look back at what I learned and how I grew as a person in those eight weeks with this team, I firmly believe that practical knowledge does give more insight.

The journey of learning

I worked with top-notch CAs of Delhi, it helped me adapt to a professional environment. I met clients, filed their ITRs, resolved their issues which helped me strengthen my communication and interpersonal skills. TAXAVTAAR had a tie-up with Fortis hospital, and my team went there to file the ITR of doctors. It was indeed the best experience. Meeting people, guiding them about taxes was like a dream come true. I learned the skills of communication and coordination which I believe will help me in the future.

The most important learning was when one day my team leader couldn't make it to Fortis and I was assigned with the responsibility to lead my team. Nothing can ever give happiness to an intern than getting the responsibility of stepping into the shoes of a leader for a day. I did it with full dedication and was praised by almost everyone at the office.

I learned many things during my internship at TAXAVTAAR, had the best days but when you work, you have dull days too. There were days when I faced criticism, but then when I think about those days now I feel it was for my benefit. Those days made me strong, confident and made me believe that the world is not as easy as it seems.

The final day

The last day was very emotional yet the most exciting. We got our certificates, letters of recommendation and every intern had a big smile on their faces. Some interns got PPO, I got that too. My teammate gave us a party, we finally had a fun day after working really hard for 8 long weeks. And then everyone bid us farewell, wished each other the best for the future and promised to stay connected. It was indeed the best of the best experience!

An internship is an opportunity to test all the skills that one develops in college and have a look at what the real, corporate world looks like. With this internship opportunity, I learned about my strengths and weaknesses and I got a chance to network with the most intelligent people around. I believe the second most vital thing I learned is to take criticism sportingly. To meet deadlines at any cost still remains at the top of the list.

Lastly, I want to conclude by saying that you must lookout for opportunities, they are available in plenty. Also, work hard because there is no shortcut for success.

Other related articles that might interest you

Sidra Siddiqui - Lakshmibai College

Hailing from Jaipur, she has pursued her graduation in commerce from Delhi University and is an an avid reader.