Nina Petinglay
Mount Royal University
Originally drawn to business and management, Nina Petinglay’s university experience ignited her love of accounting. “I just went straight for accounting after my first intro to accounting class,” she says. “Accounting just felt good.”
But Nina’s story doesn’t stop at textbooks and lectures. Fueled by a thirst for practical accounting experience, she dove into an eight-month internship with Deloitte in her second year. Balancing the demands of academia with her professional commitment, Nina achieved something extraordinary: clinching the top spot at the inaugural 2023 Winter City Case Competition hosted by NAIT. “We practiced a lot during the weekends,” she says. “My team was great, and we had a really good team dynamic.”
And it’s not all about accounting! Having come from the Philippines to study in Alberta, Nina recognizes the struggles faced by international students, so she volunteered as an International Students Ambassador to help foster a sense of belonging for other students. “As a new international student, I struggled with finding new connections. It was a new culture, a different country, and a new educational environment,” says Nina. “Having gone through that, I wanted to give back and help others in their journey and create a sense of belonging.”
Nina’s pro tip for fellow students? “Create a schedule!” she says. “I maintain an Excel sheet with colour-coded due dates for assignments, along with how much it’s worth of my overall grade. This helps me manage my responsibilities, especially when juggling multiple tasks.”
Most importantly, she emphasizes, “make the most of your university experience and have fun; it’s important to strike a balance between a social life and studying.”
Q&A with Nina Petinglay
Is there anything that might surprise people about you?
“I’m an adrenaline junkie. I love trying new and exciting experiences outside my comfort zone, and I also have a passion for baking.
Funny story: baking is how I came to Canada. I started baking and sharing brownies and cookies at school. Eventually, my friends and classmates began paying me, so I launched a business and with the proceeds, saved up to apply for my visa application and entrance fees in Canada.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank for their help or inspiration?
My parents. My mom dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom, taking excellent care of our family. My dad’s work ethic and drive have always impressed me. He’s an exceptional team leader. Growing up, we were never pressured to be top students, but seeing his work ethics inspired me to aim for a brighter career and future.
What does being named a Capitalize Campus Star mean to you?
I’m incredibly excited! I was genuinely surprised when I received the email informing me of my nomination for Capitalize Campus Stars. It’s still sinking in, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.
Capitalize and CPA Alberta are proud to announce the 2024 class of Capitalize Campus Stars. The Campus Stars program recognizes amazing Alberta post-secondary students who are dreaming of one day becoming CPAs. Learn more about the entire 2024 class!