UOWD and Andersen collaborate for Job Shadowing and Mentorship program
In August, a group of around 20 students from the University of Wollongong in Dubai received practical training and mentoring from practitioners at Andersen.
Mid-August, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) announced that it had launched a career-focused program in collaboration with Andersen, a global leader in the professional services industry. The two-week initiative was designed to offer students hands-on exposure to real-world work environments while building their confidence and career direction.
Organised by UOWD’s Careers & Alumni Department, the program connected more than 20 students with professionals from Andersen’s UAE business.
The program gave students an immersive view of Andersen’s multidisciplinary environment. Spread across offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and JAFZA, they were matched with teams aligned to their interests, from tax and advisory functions to marketing and technology governance. This approach allowed the students to understand how Andersen teams collaborate to deliver solutions to its clients across the UAE.
Building Skills and Confidence
Students were guided through real-world scenarios that highlighted the importance of precision, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making – skills essential for thriving in professional services.
During the program, students also got to hear from two UOWD alumni, Rishi Sundaram and Joseph Mendez, who are now building thriving careers at Andersen. Both alumni shared their professional journeys and offered guidance to students on navigating the transition from university to the corporate world.
The mentorship concluded with a recognition event celebrating the achievements of the students. Certificates of completion were presented as a symbol of their curiosity, commitment, and readiness to take on new challenges. The closing ceremony featured reflections from students, encouragement from Andersen’s leadership, and a strong sense of collective pride in what had been accomplished in just two weeks.
Reactions from leaders
Mary Gosha, Careers and Alumni Manager at UOWD, said: “We’re grateful to Andersen for opening their doors to our students and investing in their future. This program was about more than just shadowing professionals, it was about building confidence, clarifying career paths, and helping our students see what’s possible beyond the classroom.”
Meanwhile, leaders from Andersen highlighted how the program supported the firm’s mission to invest in young talent.
Anurag Chaturvedi, CEO of Andersen in the UAE, noted: “At Andersen, we are committed to shaping future leaders by offering students meaningful opportunities to experience the professional world of tax, legal, advisory, and consulting. This initiative highlights our dedication to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application.”
Deepa Chaturvedi, Partner at Andersen in the UAE, added: “This program reflects our focus on investing in young talent and supporting their growth. Over the course of the program, students not only gained professional exposure but also built the confidence and skills that will guide them in their future careers.”
Myra Rodrigues, Senior Manager at Andersen in the UAE: “Collaboration is at the heart of how we grow and innovate. This initiative brought our professionals and students together in a way that encouraged shared learning and fresh perspectives. It also reinforces Andersen’s brand as one that values partnerships, invests in people, and continues to look ahead to the future.”
The University of Wollongong is an Australian university located in Wollongong, New South Wales, approximately 80 kilometres south of capital city Sydney. The university launched its Dubai business in 2020.
