The chance to practice accounting in an emerging market overseas is an opportunity too good to turn down for Victoria Business School alumna Gracie Miles.

The chance to practice accounting in an emerging market overseas is an opportunity too good to turn down for Victoria Business School alumna Gracie Miles.

Gracie graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting, Commercial Law, and International Business, and is headed to Medellin in Colombia to complete an internship in the field of management accounting.

"After recently receiving the details of my role, I’ve realised how lucky I am – it's exactly what I see myself doing in the future."

Although she studied Spanish briefly at high school, it wasn't until Gracie was required to take a language paper as part of her International Business course that she realised how passionate she was about the language.

"I would really love to be fluent in Spanish and that's part of my motivation to go to South America – to really practice the language and get amongst the culture.

Gracie credits studying Accounting and International Business at Victoria with her success so far in her career.

"If I had never done International Business, I probably wouldn't be where I am now and heading to Colombia.

"The combination of International Business with my Accounting background has made me stand out and has given me confidence."

It was a friend, who is also a Victoria graduate, who recommended Gracie look at The Intern Group programme. "I went home, got click happy and applied."

Gracie is now looking for help to cover the costs of the six week internship, but says that regardless of what happens and how much she raises, she’ll be heading off.

"Not going is not an option – I know how beneficial this is going to be for my career and what it's going to do for my future.

"Spanish is now the second most widely spoken language in the world and Latin America is a major focus from New Zealand. This role and the experience I’m going to gain is going to open a lot of doors.

"When I return to New Zealand, I hope to be able to share what I learn while in Medellin."

Gracie plans on returning to New Zealand after her internship and complete her studies towards becoming a chartered accountant, and has set up a Givealittle page to help cover the costs of her six week internship.

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