Jillian Gaffga

Intern

Giving back to the community has always been ingrained in Jill’s spirit, and she knew her future workplace needed to match her philanthropic values. As a current intern returning in fall 2023, Jill is grateful for the opportunity to participate in KLR’s annual Day of Service, where she was able to meet many new people and make an impact on the community. Learn more about Jill and why KLR is the perfect fit.

Why did you choose KLR for you internship?

Taylor Bulis, a fellow Salve graduate, who works as an audit associate in Boston, worked with me at my previous internship. When she started her internship at KLR she told me all about the firm. What stuck out to me was how different KLR seemed compared to the Big 4. Eight months into my internship it’s clear that at KLR you’re viewed as more than just a number. That’s really important to me!

Is it helpful to have other interns working beside you?

Yes, it makes all the difference. Since the other interns are right next to me, it’s easy to just ask someone to be the second set of eyes on a project I’m working on. It’s fun to troubleshoot and work out things together. Throughout my internship, we’ve been able to accomplish little milestones together.

What is a typical day like for you as a KLR intern?

I typically come in and go through emails and reach out to buddy/coach to see if they need help with something. I’m usually working on foot and ties, accounts payable and cash testing. My buddy Emily will often sit with me to show me more extensive parts of the audits she’s working on, and I’ve had the opportunity to go to several clients to help with testing and shadow associates.

Who is your buddy/coach? Has it been helpful to have their perspective and guidance during your internship?

Emily Chamberlain- buddy, Gabi Maggiacomo- coach

It’s definitely helpful for many different reasons. Emily is always super helpful and willing to sit and work with me. She assigns me things that are both straightforward and challenging. There’s never been a day where I have nothing to do—I’m always learning. It’s nice to have Emily’s perspective—we both moved away from home for college/work so it’s helpful to see how she’s adjusted—it’s nice to have someone to relate to.

Gabi was living in Newport when I did—sends really detailed emails, never have to jump on calls—so nicely explained—always very helpful.

What has been your favorite part about your internship thus far?

The people. I’m such a big culture person—I value that sense of community in a workplace. There’s always someone to talk to here. It’s nice to take a break from work and walk around or grab a coffee with someone. I really appreciate the work-life balance. My coach Gabi will often stop by my desk and encourage me to take a break and go on a coffee run with her. If Emily and Gabi are both in meetings and I can’t get in touch with them, there is always someone else willing to help—everyone is just so welcoming here.

What makes your internship at KLR stand out?

My internship at KLR is very hands on. I like the opportunity to actually do the work rather than watch someone else do it.

Did you participate in our Day of Service/Summit this past fall? What was your experience like?

I love community service and giving back--I’ve always been like that. When I saw the opportunity to participate in the Day of Service, I knew I had to participate. I spent the day at Hockomock YMCA.