MFAcc 2026 » Erica Lam
Erica Lam is a recipient of the 2024-2025 MFAcc Fellowship. The MFAcc Fellowship is awarded to students who have demonstrated high academic standing, displayed effective leadership skills, and have financial need.
Erica is pursuing her Master of Forensic Accounting as a part-time student. Erica’s academic journey has been both challenging and rewarding as she balanced her studies and work commitments. With a strong foundation in accounting principles, Erica has developed a keen interest in uncovering financial discrepancies and understanding the complexities of financial fraud. By applying forensic accounting techniques, Erica hopes to play a crucial role in detecting and preventing fraud, thereby contributing to a fairer and more honest society.
Erica completed her Bachelor of Science degree from Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2019. She is currently an Associate, Real Estate Banking with the Scotiabank. She is in her first year of the MFAcc program, with plans to obtain her Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential.
The moment I received the notification, I was overwhelmed with pride and a sense of accomplishment. It highlighted the hard work, dedication, and passion I had poured into my education and career advancement. Being awarded this recognition significantly enhanced my confidence, validating my faith in my skills and my capacity to contribute positively to the field of forensic accounting. I sincerely appreciate the donors, faculty, instructors, and peers who have been a source of support and guidance during my academic experience. — Erica Lam
What initially sparked your interest in forensic accounting, and how did you decide to pursue it at the University of Toronto?
I was highly interested in the MFAcc program, as it presents an excellent opportunity to enhance both my technical expertise and interpersonal skills.
In my current role, I am responsible for analyzing large volumes of financial data to detect irregularities and assess risks that may impact a Borrower's credibility and financial stability. The MFAcc program's highly relevant curriculum which covers investigation, risk assessment, and loss quantification directly aligns with these responsibilities. By engaging in these courses, I would strengthen my analytical abilities in evaluating a Borrower's financial health and integrity, ultimately helping to mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks associated with counterparty financial misconduct
Can you tell us about your background before entering MFAcc? What experiences or achievements do you think best prepared you for the challenges in MFAcc?
During my undergraduate studies, I volunteered with the Student Union’s Audit Committee, an experience that equipped me with valuable skills and insights relevant to this program.
By analyzing financial data, I gained hands-on experience in identifying discrepancies and potential areas of concern, refining my analytical and investigative abilities. Additionally, presenting my findings and recommendations to the committee and engaging in discussions with various stakeholders strengthened my communication skills, allowing me to convey complex financial information effectively.
This experience has deepened my understanding of the real-world implications of forensic accounting. Alongside my natural curiosity and passion for investigating complex challenges and identifying hidden patterns, which are crucial attributes in order to excel in the program and in the industry.
Forensic accounting can be a unique and niche field. What aspects of the MFAcc program stood out to you the most?
The University of Toronto is widely recognized for its outstanding academic standards and top-tier programs. Its esteemed reputation, along with a strong dedication to promoting innovation and research across diverse disciplines, such as forensic accounting, positions it as a highly appealing option.
The program aims to achieve academic excellence while also placing a strong emphasis on the development of important skills such as critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making. These abilities are fundamental for success in the field of forensic accounting.
Most importantly, the program is taught by a group of seasoned professionals who specialize in forensic accounting. Their extensive practical experience, research achievements, and commitment to education guarantee that students benefit from exceptional instruction and guidance.
With your first-year of the MFAcc program completed, how has your experience been so far?
MFAcc features a remarkable academic environment that fosters cooperation. I thoroughly enjoy the classes and the dynamic interactions with both instructors and classmates. The program attracts talented individuals from various backgrounds, and there are open discussions and group projects that create a stimulating environment where students share their distinctive perspectives and thought process.
The instructors, who are seasoned industry professionals, are not only highly knowledgeable but also deeply passionate about sharing their expertise. Their insights provide students with invaluable experiential learning, keeping us informed about the latest trends in the field and offering a deeper, more practical understanding of the role of a forensic accountant. Faculty members are very approachable and deliver essential mentorship. They support students in their academic and career pursuits, cultivating a welcoming learning environment.
I currently work full-time and study part-time, and the level of academic rigor is substantial. Completing individual assignments, group projects, and exams demands a considerable amount of commitment and effort, at times more than I had anticipated. Balancing energy levels and time has presented a significant challenge. Some days, maintaining high productivity at work followed by engaging in coursework can feel quite overwhelming. However, the challenge is incredibly rewarding, as each milestone achieved reinforces my resilience, strengthens my skills, and brings me one step closer to my professional goals.
Can you walk us through a particularly memorable course you have taken?
During the last course, we undertook a challenging and highly engaging project: developing an investigation plan to analyze financial discrepancies within a fictional organization. This assignment closely mirrored real-world forensic accounting work, requiring us to assess potential conflicts of interest, identify red flags, and systematically gather and analyze evidence.
The project pushed us to think critically, apply investigative techniques, and work collaboratively under tight deadlines. Presenting our findings in a structured, professional manner—just as forensic accountants would in an actual investigation—enhanced both our technical expertise and communication skills. It was an invaluable learning experience that reinforced the practical application of forensic accounting principles in complex financial scenarios
How do you see the forensic accounting field evolving in the next few years, and what role do you hope to play in it?
As financial crimes evolve in complexity, the need for specialized skills in areas such as cybersecurity, digital forensics, cryptocurrency, and data analytics will continue to rise.
I would like to apply my knowledge and leverage technology to optimize investigation capacity and enhance business environment. I hope to contribute by applying my knowledge and leveraging technology to enhance investigative capabilities, improve efficiency, and foster a more transparent and resilient business environment.
Upon graduation, I aim to take Certified Fraud Examiner exam and actively participate in advocacy for stronger regulations and policies to prevent financial crimes.
What advice would you give to prospective students applying to the MFAcc program?
I recommend starting your application process as early as possible and thoroughly reviewing the eligibility criteria and application guidelines to ensure you meet all requirements.
Given the program's demands, staying organized with required readings and deadlines is essential. Effective time management will be especially important if you are balancing work and other commitments.
Additionally, clearly defining your aspirations and articulating how you plan to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the MFAcc program will help demonstrate your potential to make a meaningful impact in your profession.