Julia Losciale is an analyst with Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Transaction Advisory Group in New York. She earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Binghamton University.

In the following Q&A, Julia shares her insights on why she chose to intern at A&M, how she got started in her career with the guidance of an influential mentor and her approach to networking and building professional relationships. She also shares some fun facts about her love of reading, her involvement in golf and her unwavering support for the New York Yankees.

Why did you choose to intern at A&M?

During my sophomore year at Binghamton's School of Management, I was introduced to the A&M Transaction Advisory Group (TAG). While attending an information session, I was immediately captivated by the practice. Listening to Paul Aversano speak about TAG, I recognized it as an environment I aspired to be a part of due to the firm's remarkable culture. Rather than being just another face in the crowd, I wanted to join a place where my contributions would be valued, and at A&M, I genuinely feel that sense of worth and recognition from my colleagues. Discovering the internship program, I was drawn to the opportunity of working on live deals with lean teams, allowing me to gain hands-on experience in financial due diligence (FDD). It felt like an incredible chance to learn and grow in a practical setting.

How did you get started in your career, and what were some of the biggest challenges you faced early on?

Binghamton University excels at equipping students with the necessary skills for the business world right from the outset. Even in my early days, I had a clear interest in accounting and was eager to secure an internship after my freshman year. Actively engaging within the School of Management and seizing every chance to enhance my professional growth became second nature to me.

One of my initial hurdles was landing that crucial first internship. As a freshman with only one Intro to Financial Accounting class under my belt, I faced the challenge head-on. I relentlessly applied to countless opportunities, sending out what felt like hundreds of applications. Fortunately, the strong resume I had painstakingly crafted caught the attention of a human resources (HR) manager at a mid-sized accounting firm. This stroke of luck granted me the opportunity to interview for a summer internship with them. Seizing that chance was a turning point, opening doors that would shape my future in countless ways.

How do you stay current with industry trends and developments, and what resources do you rely on for ongoing learning and growth?

Keeping myself informed about current events and their potential impact on professional life is of utmost importance. Personally, I rely on the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) to stay updated, appreciating its comprehensive coverage. Additionally, I find Morning Brew quite valuable for concise email updates. To stay in the loop in real-time, I leverage social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. Following accounts like Bloomberg, WSJ, and influential business figures allows me to access timely news. Furthermore, I find audiobooks and podcasts to be excellent sources for continuous learning and personal growth. Among my favorites are M&A Science and M&A Talk podcasts.

What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishment so far in your career?

My most significant achievement to date is successfully passing all four parts of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam on my initial attempt. By effectively managing my time during internships and graduate school, I dedicated myself to diligent study, enabling me to complete the exams before commencing full-time employment. I strongly believe that aspiring accounting students should strive to accomplish this feat, utilizing their available opportunities to excel academically.

What advice would you give to university students looking to work in consulting?

A career in consulting offers unique opportunities and thrills yet breaking into this field can present its challenges. My most valuable advice is to actively build your professional network in college. I once received the guidance that "it's not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you," and I find this statement particularly relevant for aspiring consultants. Take the initiative to connect with alumni from your school who are working in your areas of interest on a platform like LinkedIn. Request coffee chats or informational interviews to learn about their careers and gain valuable insights. Attending information sessions hosted by various consulting firms is also beneficial for understanding their practices. Moreover, make the most of the resources offered by your college for professional development. Refine your resume and hone your interviewing skills, as these proficiencies will prove invaluable in the long run.

What do you consider to be the most important qualities for success in your field, and how do you cultivate those qualities in yourself?

The key qualities for success in transaction advisory go beyond what can be taught. Work ethic, attitude and drive are crucial factors that contribute to the success of young professionals. Accountability is also vital—as everyone makes mistakes—especially in the early stages of a role. While practical accounting knowledge develops over time, it's the untaught skills that truly pave the way for success. Personally, I take immense pride in my work and have embraced the belief that "hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work" since childhood. This mindset is reflected in my unwavering drive and strong work ethic. Furthermore, I approach each day with a readiness to learn, buoyed by my genuine enjoyment of the work I do and the people with whom I collaborate. Maintaining a positive attitude comes naturally to me in such an environment.

Can you tell us about a mentor or advisor who has been influential in your career development, and what did you learn from them?

Ever since my initial experience as a deal work intern in Summer 2021, Damiano Dragone a Senior Director in TAG, has been a guiding presence, providing invaluable opportunities for my growth and development as an FDD professional. Throughout my initial months at the firm, I had the privilege of collaborating with him on every deal, which facilitated a rapid grasp of my responsibilities as an analyst. I owe my current position to his patience, guidance and openness to allowing me to explore new avenues within my role.

How do you approach networking and building professional relationships, and what tips would you offer to others who are just starting out?

When it comes to networking and fostering professional relationships, my approach revolves around the fundamental concept of building genuine connections. Unlike the transactional mindset often associated with networking, where the focus is solely on what others can offer, I believe in treating professionals as individuals rather than mere opportunities. I value the opportunity to get to know them on a personal level, appreciating them beyond their immediate potential benefits.

What's your favorite hobby or activity outside of work, and how did you get into it?

My current favorite hobby is golf! Inspired by my dad and both grandfathers, who are passionate about the sport, I decided to give it a try given my love for sports. Additionally, I recognized its potential as a networking opportunity in the future. I enrolled in lessons and began playing in the spring, so I'm still in the early stages of learning. Nonetheless, I find immense joy in witnessing my progress and eagerly anticipate the day when I can enjoy a round of golf with friends and family. Coming from a softball background, adapting to a new swing has been an intriguing challenge, but I appreciate the excitement it brings and the chance to spend time outdoors.

What are some fun facts about you?

Reading is one of my greatest passions, and this year has been no exception. I've already read over 30 books this year, most of which I read during my train commute to work. My love for sports began at a young age when I first started playing softball at the age of eight. It's a sport I still actively participate in, although I made the transition from fast pitch to slow pitch in college. As a fervent fan, I proudly support the New York Yankees, and it's a funny coincidence that my birthday aligns with that of my favorite player.