Internships are a pivotal steppingstone in any young professional’s journey, offering hands-on experience, industry exposure, and valuable mentorship. At The Bonadio Group (TBG), we’re committed to creating a meaningful internship experience that empowers students to grow, gain confidence, and build lasting connections.
For many of our current leaders, the journey didn’t stop there—several began their careers with us as interns and steadily advanced to leadership roles.
In this piece, you’ll hear directly from some of those leaders, Partners Andy Borowski, Theresa Raponi, and Rick Bigham, on their growth from intern to partner, their reflections, and the advice they’d offer to those just starting out.
Embracing the Intern Mindset
Andy, Theresa, and Rick all emphasized how crucial it is to approach any and every internship with resilience, curiosity, and intention. Looking back, all agreed that being willing to learn and develop, rather than possessing all the answers, was much more important in the early phases of their careers. The three partners encourage interns to embrace difficulties and new assignments, seeing them as chances to step beyond their comfort zones. One recurring subject was the value of staying curious, while taking time to understand both client needs and internal processes more deeply.
Redefining Success
Each partner shared how their definition of success evolved throughout the course of their careers, moving from personal achievement to group success. Generally, the three agreed on how success in their early years of work frequently linked to personal achievements. This included meeting deadlines, passing tests, getting promoted, etc. These tangible milestones provided a sense of validation and progress that was always encouraged during their time as students.
However, as their careers progressed, their priorities changed. Success shifted from just crossing things off a list, to focusing on their impact on others, coaching team members, building stronger client relationships, and contributing to a positive, supportive work culture. Today, success is measured not just by what they achieve personally, but by how they help others grow, how they strengthen the firm, and the legacy they leave behind. Andy emphasized that he evaluates himself differently now, stating, “Nowadays, my view is all about our team and our clients. Have I helped others to grow and be the best they can be (team members and/or clients)? That is how I view success now.” This change in viewpoint draws attention to a greater and fulfilling definition of success, one that is based on influence, community, and mutual advancement.
Partnership Rooted in Opportunity
Earning the title of “Partner” can be a truly personal and life-changing experience rather than simply a professional turning point. While their achievement was rewarding in and of itself, Andy, Theresa, and Rick quickly came to understand that the partnership marked the start of a new era characterized by increased accountability, responsibility, and the chance to influence the firm’s course. One special component of the partner group was the sense of fellowship that reaffirmed the encouraging environment they had encountered on their journey. Rick described this feeling in a more personal way, elaborating that, “Becoming a partner meant the fulfillment of “O” in PROMISE, the acronym that summarizes the TBG core values. The hard work of the partners that came before me created the “Opportunity” for me through growth of the practice.” Although each partner feels a similar, but unique feeling in earning this role, they all understand the legacy of those who came before them, recognizing that their own success was built on the foundation of opportunity created by previous generations.
Advice to Interns: Be Present, Be Curious
In response to the question of what guidance they would give interns today, each partner highlighted the importance of arriving with purpose, curiosity, and an openness to learning. They challenged young professionals to be present, ask meaningful questions, and view each assignment as a chance to have an influence, no matter how major or minor. Reliability, professionalism, and a sincere desire to learn were mentioned as traits that make a lasting impression. The idea that success comes from being open to learning, accepting difficulties, and learning from mistakes, rather than from knowing everything was a recurrent topic between the three. “You don’t need to have all the answers; what matters is being willing to ask the right questions,” emphasized Theresa. They pointed out that this kind of thinking enables interns to reach their greatest potential and push beyond their comfort zones.
TBG Legacy
When asked about the legacy they hope to leave behind, Andy, Theresa, and Rick spoke with a deep sense of purpose and gratitude. Their goals were focused on the potential influence they could have on the firm, their coworkers, and the clients they serve rather than on receiving personal recognition. They want to be known for opening doors, encouraging development, and establishing an environment where people feel encouraged and ready to succeed. Andy put the legacy he wanted to leave behind simply, “I want to leave our firm and our clients in a better place than when I started.” A simple, yet powerful statement emphasizing his desire for the wellbeing of the firm. The other two highlighted the significance of teamwork, mentoring, and honoring the principles laid down by earlier generations. In the end, their legacy is more about the doors they opened for others and the enduring culture they contributed to than it is about what they achieved.
Inspired by these stories? Your career journey could start the same way. Explore our internship and entry-level opportunities to see where a future at TBG could take you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Check out our current openings and take the first step toward building a meaningful and rewarding career.
This material has been prepared for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. Should you require any such advice, please contact us directly. The information contained herein does not create, and your review or use of the information does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship.
