NYC Gazette

More than 40 students from St. John’s University attended a recent event at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business to explore the field of internal auditing. The "Meet the Internal Auditors" forum, held on November 18, featured five professionals, including three alumni, who discussed the expanding role of internal auditors in today's regulatory and global business landscape.

The event was organized by University Career Services and the student chapter of The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) at St. John’s. A particular focus was given to the roles internal auditors play in information technology (IT), which is an area that interests many students from Tobin College.

Yougnand Paul moderated the panel discussion, which included Christian Amazan from EY; Shreya Guha and Fazle Choudhury from JPMorganChase; and Jonathan Rojas from Fiserv. They answered questions and provided guidance for students considering a career in this industry.

Alexie Crisp, a senior studying Interdisciplinary Business, said, “I was introduced to so many different perspectives on the internal auditing industry.” She noted how artificial intelligence can benefit auditing processes.

Internal auditors are responsible for evaluating management policies within organizations. Their duties include reviewing corporate procedures, examining financial practices, assessing compliance with laws and regulations, and suggesting improvements for risk management.

Unlike external auditors who focus mainly on financial risks, internal auditors also assess a company’s reputation, growth potential, environmental impact, employee treatment, and adherence to business ethics.

David Y. Chan from St. John’s Department of Accountancy emphasized that internal auditing remains a growing field due to complex business operations and increased regulatory scrutiny. He stated that it should continue offering career opportunities for students at St. John's.

St. John’s offers Master of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees related to Risk and Financial Advisory through its Department of Accountancy. Dr. Chan explained that studying various disciplines could lead to diverse career opportunities within this profession.

The university has partnered with IIA since 2015 through an Internal Auditing Education Partnership program aimed at preparing students for careers in this field. In 2019, IIA recognized St. John’s as a Center for Internal Audit Excellence—a distinction shared by only 12 institutions worldwide.

Matthew Warner, a Finance major who discovered his interest later in his academic journey described the panel as “eye-opening.” He appreciated networking with accomplished professionals who offered insights into their careers.

Gigi Miller found Mr. Amazan's advice particularly valuable: “As you grow and discover yourself do not hesitate to develop your network,” he advised future professionals like her interested in pursuing internal auditing careers after graduation next year with plans for further studies at St John's University.