From biochemistry to accounting: Megan Ni’s path to partnership

For Megan Ni (MMPA 2011 UTM), success has never been about following a straight line. It has been about making thoughtful choices, embracing change, and committing fully to growth even when the path ahead was uncertain.

Born and raised in China, Megan began her academic journey in medicine and biochemistry. While her early training was grounded in science, she discovered that her long-term future would require a different kind of challenge. That realization led her to Canada and to the Master of Management and Professional Accounting program (MMPA) at U of T Mississauga (UTM).

Choosing reinvention

Before arriving at UTM, Megan carefully researched the MMPA program. What stood out was not only its strong reputation in the accounting industry, but its openness to students from diverse academic backgrounds. “The MMPA program’s willingness to accept students with non-accounting or non-business backgrounds made my career path possible,” she says.  Added to that, she says, the program’s co-op structure, strong alumni network, and experienced professors gave her confidence to successfully transition into the Canadian workforce. 

While arriving in Canada was a major transition, UTM quickly became a place of belonging. Surrounded by international students and alumni navigating similar journeys, Megan found reassurance and motivation. Seeing others succeed without a local background helped her believe she could achieve her goals.

It was during her time in the MMPA program that Megan discovered her passion for tax thanks to a course taught by an inspiring professor. It opened her eyes to a field she had not previously considered and reshaped how she saw her own potential.

Building expertise through experience

After graduation, Megan’s career took her across Canada. Working in multiple provinces allowed her to develop a wide-ranging skill set, from compliance and reorganization planning to mergers and acquisitions. These experiences shaped her into a well-rounded tax professional.

Today, Megan specializes in owner-manager business tax. “What excites me most is how proper tax planning can help owner-managers save or defer and reinvest in their businesses,” she says. 

Beyond her practice, Megan is passionate about teaching and mentorship. She contributes to tax literature, teaches courses, and serves on the board of a local university. A lifelong learner, Megan continues to explore how technology and AI may shape the future of the tax profession.

Finding balance

Balancing a demanding career with family life requires flexibility, support and resilience. Megan believes that such an approach allows women like her to reach their fullest potential both professionally and personally. Looking ahead, she hopes to inspire her daughters and young women to pursue similarly fulfilling careers while maintaining strong family lives. What advice would she give young women starting professional careers? “I would tell them to believe in themselves, be brave, and dare to try.”

Originally published by U of T Mississauga