Justin Dourado, a third-year accounting student, is currently in the middle of the Pan Am Games action as a Bus Systems Coordinator. In this role, will ensure smooth, effective, efficient and reliable delivery of all bus services at the Pan Am Park and Main Media Centre in downtown Toronto. As an avid sports fan, Justin is excited for this new challenge and the transferable skills he will gain for his future career. In this Q&A, he discusses his experience at the University of Guelph, role at the Games and position as VP of Communications for the Accounting Society (ASG).

Name: Justin Dourado
Hometown: Mississauga, ON
Major: Accounting
Year: 3rd

Why did you choose to pursue your Bachelor of Commerce in accounting at the University of Guelph?

I chose to pursue my Bachelor of Commerce in accounting at the University of Guelph because the program focuses not only on accounting theory, but also practical skills relevant to business. It has allowed me to experience many group projects that have prepared me for my future career. In addition, the Guelph accounting major provides students in the program with the academic requirements for the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. This was a major selling point to me and I do not regret my decision.

What has been your favourite part of your University of Guelph experience so far?

My favourite University of Guelph experience so far has been getting involved in various extracurricular activities including the Accounting Society, intramural sports and the Guelph Jazz Society. I personally enjoy meeting and interacting with new people and through my involvement I have made many friends. The Accounting Society made me feel like a part of the school and has given me the opportunity to participate in various events and activities. Guelph commerce offers countless possibilities for students to learn and interact with one another, and this has amplified my experience.

What are your career aspirations following graduation from university?

After graduating from Guelph, I want to work at an accredited accounting firm in order to attain my CPA designation. After that, I would love to work in the sports or media industry. Opening a business of my own is another option. I would love to open my own music store!

This summer, you’re working with the Pan Am Games. What will you be doing?

My role at the 2015 Pan Am Games will be to ensure the smooth, effective, efficient and reliable delivery of all bus services at the Pan Am Park and Main Media Centre in downtown Toronto. This includes dealing with media, officials and athlete buses and making sure they get to their desired location at the set time. This operation is crucial to the success of the Games as I must make sure all buses are meeting scheduled requirements so that no events are delayed.

What are you most looking forward to in this role?

I am looking forward to representing Canada as one of the many individuals helping to ensure the Games run smoothly. People from around the world will be attending. The Pan Am Games is the world’s third largest international multi-sport event. As a sports fanatic, working at an event of this magnitude is reason enough to be excited!

What skills do you think you will gain from this experience?

Teamwork, communication, organization, time management and professionalism. My position requires me to keep on constant alert for any signs of delays in the program. I am supposed to report these mishaps to my superiors so they can fix any errors. Furthermore, I will be interacting with people from all over the world on a daily basis and a significant portion of my job is to remain professional and polite.

Is there a course you feel helped prepare you for your role with the Pan Am Games?

An example that stands out in my mind is ACCT*2240, Applied Financial Accounting. In this course, we completed the year-round accounting books of a company called “McIvers”. This assignment strengthened my time management and organizational skills. I had to keep the books organized in order to complete the assignment quicker, not lose anything important and keep focused on the task at hand due to a fast approaching deadline. Additionally, I used teamwork skills to complete areas of the assignment I had trouble with and in turn helped other people in the project where they were finding difficulties.

In addition to a busy summer working with the Pan Am Games, you have a busy year ahead as the VP of Communications for the Accounting Society. What are you most looking forward to in this role?

As VP of Communications for the ASG, I am most looking forward to getting the University of Guelph’s accounting community involved! So far, I have had an amazing experience here, and I want to make the Guelph accounting experience for future and current students amazing and memorable. This year, we have developed awesome social events, networking opportunities, swag giveaways and helpful resources, among other things. I hope to provide Guelph Accounting and commerce students with all the resources we can possibly give.

What advice do you have for first year accounting students coming to Guelph in the fall?

My advice for first year accounting students is to take advantage of all the opportunities and resources the University of Guelph offers. From resume critiquing, to writing services, to gym memberships and office hours. There are many ways for an individual to learn and grow during their university career. Be smart and take advantage of them!

If you could sum up your University of Guelph experience in three words, what would they be?

Hard work wins!