Ryan’s Journey to CPA Success: From Arts to Accounting in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Meet Ryan Magee, a Senior Accountant at Doane Grant Thornton LLP. Hailing from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Ryan’s unconventional path to becoming a CPA showcases the power of adaptability, curiosity, and determination.

Why CPA?

Ryan’s journey to the CPA designation began unexpectedly. After switching from arts to business during his second year at Cape Breton University, he discovered a passion for accounting. Serving as the VP of Finance and Operations (VPFO) for the student union cemented his desire to pursue a career that combined his love of numbers and leadership. “I knew I wanted to set myself up to work in similar roles throughout my career,” he shares.

A Fascinating Course: Taxation

For Ryan, the most surprising course was Taxation. While he had prior exposure to corporate tax, he found learning about other aspects and integrating that knowledge fascinating. This course broadened his perspective and strengthened his understanding of how tax impacts various business decisions.

Building a Network

One of Ryan’s favorite aspects of the CPA program was the opportunity to meet people from across the province. “I enjoyed developing a network and collaborating with others,” he explains. These connections have proven invaluable in his career.

Balancing Challenges

The most challenging aspect of the CPA program for Ryan was the full weekend workshops. “No matter how busy I get, I always try to have one day a week for myself and family,” he reflects. However, the support of his fiancée, Morgan, and his firm, Doane Grant Thornton, helped him navigate these challenges successfully.

Advice for Aspiring CPAs

Ryan’s advice for future CPAs is to cultivate curiosity. “Whether through work or school, take any opportunity to understand why things are done a certain way or what other team members are doing. Seeing the bigger picture will help tremendously,” he advises.

An Unexpected Journey

Unlike many CPAs, Ryan didn’t always see himself in the accounting field. In high school, his focus was on science, and he never took a business course until his second year of university. However, his exposure to CPAs during his time in university and his VPFO role collectively inspired him to pursue the designation.

Reflecting on the Experience

Looking back, Ryan describes his CPA journey as challenging but rewarding. “It was tough at times, especially when work and life got hectic. Fortunately, I had tremendous support from Morgan and my firm, which allowed me to focus on the task at hand,” he shares.

Beyond Accounting

When he’s not working, Ryan enjoys starting his day with a run, spending time with his dog, and enjoying scrambled eggs and a bagel for breakfast. He treasures Kennington Cove in Louisbourg, NS, as his favorite beach and is a fan of Clint Eastwood movies, The Big Short, and White Christmas.

For podcasts, Ryan enjoys “Let’s Appreciate” by economist Kyla Scanlon and the Halifax-based podcast “The Grand Parade,” which delves into municipal politics. Looking ahead, he dreams of traveling to Germany and Montana.

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