The Value of Taking on Challenges through Internship

－ How did you first learn about Crowe Watanabe Consulting?

My mother works in the international financial sector, and she told me about a career event where Crowe Watanabe Consulting was participating. That was my first encounter with the firm.

－ What made you decide to join the internship program?

Having grown up watching my mother discuss and debate with her international colleagues, I naturally developed an admiration for the finance industry.
I wanted to work in an environment that combined both “Finance” and “Global” perspectives, so I applied for and joined Crowe Watanabe Consulting’s internship program.

“There isn’t just one answer to a challenge”

－ Can you tell us about the internship itself?

The internship was designed to closely resemble real M&A work. It involved researching potential buyers for a client company considering a sale and presenting the findings to the team.
Over the three-day program, the work included analyzing the client’s business and market environment, identifying potential buyer candidates, and delivering a presentation with recommendations on the final day.

－ What was your impression after joining the internship?

Before joining, I was worried—I had no business background and didn’t know what I could contribute.
However, once I started working, that anxiety quickly faded. I realized how valuable firsthand experience is compared to theoretical thinking..

I was assigned a mentor who constantly checked in with me, offering advice and feedback on my research and questions. Through this, I learned that even for difficult problems, there’s always more than one approach—and that taking the first step is what matters most.

The final presentation also became a milestone moment. It allowed me to clearly see how much I had grown in a few days.

－ What made you decide to join the company full time?

There were two main reasons.

First, I was impressed by the people and the supportive environment.
During the internship, I saw how much time my mentors and supervisors devoted to helping me grow. They were generous with their advice and feedback, which made me feel that this was an organization where I could learn and work with peace of mind.

Also, the firm’s compact size gave me confidence. In a large company, you may not always get to work with the people you meet during interviews. At Crowe Watanabe Consulting, I felt reassured knowing that I could work closely with the same people who guided me during the internship.

The second reason was the opportunity for young professionals.
I learned that even associates in their early 20s can join overseas training sessions and global conferences, and have their input reflected in actual M&A proposals. Hearing directly from the CEO about how much the firm invests in young talent convinced me that this was a genuine part of the culture—not just words.

All of this made me certain that Crowe Watanabe Consulting was the right place for me.

－ After joining the company, was there anything different from your expectations?

The growth opportunities were even greater than I had imagined. Every day, I find new chances to learn and take on challenges.

At the same time, I’ve realized that growth requires self-driven effort.
When I don’t understand something, I don’t just ask—I read related books, look up primary sources, and research technical sites. I’ve come to appreciate that learning in this field takes initiative. Crowe Watanabe Consulting provides an environment full of opportunities, and that motivates me to work hard and grow in return.

Becoming a professional consultant — through constant learning and challenge

－ How do you spend your typical day?

For the first three months, I trained alongside new graduates from the tax advisory group.
We studied company law, tax, accounting, and finance fundamentals in the morning, and learned M&A basics at Crowe Watanabe Consulting in the afternoon.

After training, I began attending client meetings with my supervisors and supporting them by preparing materials used in discussions.

This experience reminded me that M&A requires not only accounting and legal knowledge, but also an understanding of the global business landscape. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue the U.S. CPA qualification, aiming to become a consultant capable of supporting Japanese companies expanding overseas.

－ What does a typical day look like?

Our working hours are from 9:00 to 18:00.
I usually start by reviewing my assigned tasks, setting priorities, and organizing my day. After completing tasks, I report back through chat or meetings, and spend time preparing or reviewing materials for upcoming client meetings.

－ What are your future goals?

I want to deepen my expertise so I can work on equal terms with our global colleagues.

Last year, I assisted at an international Crowe conference. Listening to global members discuss complex topics made me realize how much more I wanted to learn. It motivated me to strengthen both my technical skills and my business English.
I’m now actively participating in training opportunities to learn how to use English effectively in real business situations.

Crowe Watanabe Consulting is truly a company that genuinely supports each individual’s growth—and I want to live up to that by becoming a well-rounded consultant who can contribute globally.

－ Finally, do you have a message for those considering joining Crowe Watanabe Consulting?

Crowe Watanabe Consulting is a place that takes personal growth seriously.
People here are supportive, approachable, and collaborative. If you want to grow while working in a close-knit, team-oriented environment, this is the ideal place for you.