Mark Kramer’s Post

This program is a result of creating alternative pathways to CPA. Let me say that again - alternative pathway to CPA. There will still be students that take the traditional route of an MBA, MSA, MST etc. from their alma mater or another university. This may be news to some (sarcasm) but the cost of education in this country is astronomical. Not everyone can afford it. This is about creating a program that allows students to work and earn and learn. You know what else? What you learn by working, in my opinion, is more valuable and relevant in some cases than classroom. So dont discount the experience we give students in working with clients in real world situations. This program can really change the lives of students that cant afford the high price tag of a full masters. This is about building pipeline and moving the profession forward and we should all be working together. Well done AICPA and Tulane. Thank you for your efforts. #inclusiveness #experience #cpa

I want to thank the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Center for Accounting Diversity and the AICPA for making an investment in students such as myself. As a sophomore at my undergraduate University, Mississippi Valley State University, I decided to add to my Business Administration degree and pursue a double major in Accounting. The field aligned with my capabilities, and I truly enjoyed it—however, one deterrent in pursuing my accounting education post-grad was cost. There can be numerous barriers to entry when trying to become a Certified Public Accountant, whether obtaining educational material, paying application fees, or the cost to sit for all parts of the exam. I am currently earning my post-graduate education for free through the fellowship and additional funding. I will also be sitting for all four parts of my exam at no cost to myself. Accounting is a vital field and integral to all businesses. Therefore, an investment in students is an investment in the profession's future. I cannot thank both organizations enough, and Surgent Accounting & Financial Education as well for providing my study supplies for the exam. Please consider giving another undergraduate student the opportunity and privilege I have obtained by supporting the Center. Feel free to reach out to the fantastic director, Dr. Kecia Williams Smith, Ph.D., CPA to look into how you, or your organization can make a difference. (Also, thank you for making this fellowship a reality, Dr. Williams Smith. When I think of how to make an influence in Accounting, I look to you!) #Accounting #CPA #HBCUPROUD

One thing we really love is hearing inspiring stories from our NC CPA Foundation Scholarship recipients! They all bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to the table and are fired up about the accounting profession. This month, we asked some of our scholarship recipients who identified as Black or African American to answer a few questions about what inspires them to pursue accounting and the importance of diversity within the profession. Today's answers come from Elon University student Noah Biggers! Read what he has to say... "I decided to pursue a career in accounting because I wanted to work in a field that firstly, would allow me to be of service to my community, and secondly a field that would allow me to use my passion for business and financial literacy daily. Becoming an accounting professional greatly impacts my life. Especially, when I think about the stories of my ancestors who didn't have the opportunities that I have been given to accomplish my goals. Many African Americans in history were barred from the basic right of education, and therefore couldn't become business professionals, or invest their money in stock, or even establish themselves as accountants. However, in the midst of their trials, they persevered so that one day, students like myself, could achieve the goals that they couldn't and be successful. Diversity within the accounting pipeline needs to be supported. It is inspiring when one can look into a career field and see someone who looks like them or even has the same background as them. This very occurrence of representation allows one to believe that they too can be successful in said field. Additionally, diversity eliminates barriers and causes us as humans to understand each other a little better than before." Thank you, Noah, for your beautiful thoughts and for your contribution to the accounting profession now and in the future! #BHM #ncacpa #accountingstudents #elonuniversity #accountingscholarships #accountingmajor #blackhistorymonth #celebratediversity #diversity

In response to the significant shortage of accountants and to address the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure, Franklin University proudly announces a strategic partnership with Miles Education. This collaboration introduces a pioneering educational initiative poised to revolutionize access to CPA licensure, combining Franklin University's century-long tradition of educational excellence with the cutting-edge training capabilities of Miles CPA Review. The newly launched program offers 30 credits at the highly competitive rate of $99 per credit hour, compared to typical costs ranging from $500 to $1000 per credit hour. Specifically designed for U.S. undergraduates who require these additional credits to fulfill the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure, this initiative significantly lowers the financial barriers often associated with advancing in the accounting profession. Additionally, the program broadens the pathway for individuals aiming to transition into accounting careers. Learn more about this strategic partnership with Miles CPA Review: https://bit.ly/4al0tEb. #FranklinUniversity #MilesCPAReview #Accounting #AccountingDegree #CPA #OnlineDegree

Inspiring Achievement: Mississippi Youth Passes CPA Exam at Age 15 I recently came across an incredible story that showcases the power of alternative education paths and early academic achievement. In a remarkable feat, a young individual from Mississippi successfully passed the CPA exam at the remarkable age of 15! This accomplishment is a testament to the benefits of homeschooling and early college programs, which provide unique opportunities for young minds to excel and reach their full potential. By embracing alternative education methods, students can pursue an accelerated academic journey and develop valuable skills at an early age. In an era where the traditional public K-12 education system faces numerous challenges, such as overcrowded classrooms and limited individualized attention, it's crucial to explore alternative approaches that can better meet the needs of students. Homeschooling and early college programs offer tailored and personalized education, allowing students to thrive and surpass expectations. Alternative education options like homeschooling and early college programs can provide the flexibility, customization, and enriched learning experiences that foster intellectual growth and prepare students for future success. The achievement of this young CPA candidate serves as a powerful reminder that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. #Education #Homeschooling #CPA https://lnkd.in/eNn5t2my

I'm happy to share that I have completed my Graduate Diploma (GDip) in Accounting at Western University. This wouldn't have been possible without the amazing professors, Stacey Hann, CPA, CA, Barry Hawn, Jaclyn Cairns, CPA, CA and Maria Ferraro, that gave us the necessary skills and technical knowledge needed for us to be successful in achieving this milestone. Next up in my CPA journey - capstone 1, capstone 2 and the CFE!

Upon graduation this December with a Bachelors in Integrated Business from UCF, I will be taking the next step in my furthering my education & career where I will be attending Graduate School at the University of West Florida for my Masters in Accouting/Taxation. I am excited about this next chapter in my life and can’t wait to enhance and sharpen my accounting knowledge and skills. #gradschool #uwf #accounting

Lucky Acadia accounting students will get to hear wise insights from the one and only Mike Kennedy, CPA, CA! Help him out below 👇

Assistant Professor, Theresa Mulcahy (nee Cunningham), shares what you need to know about the MSc in Accounting, a new full-time postgraduate programme with classes starting in September 2024. Learn more about this course here: https://lnkd.in/eegMPyd2

📣 Student Spotlight Meet Robert King, MACC Student - Why did you choose UNF? I chose UNF because the campus was beautiful, class sizes were smaller than other universities, and Jacksonville is in a prime location for the accounting market. Further, UNF has one of the top-rated business colleges in the state of Florida (AACSB accreditation), and the accounting department is an extension of that top rating. - What is your favorite part about being a graduate student? What I enjoy most about the graduate program is the range of material we cover. Undergraduate courses focus on the application of material, while the grad courses focus less on application and more on the theory and reasoning of that application. One of my favorite classes in the MAcc was Advanced Auditing Theory, and I liked that we looked at case studies of failed audits and what the deficiencies were. - What is your favorite part about being a graduate assistant? As a grad assistant, I was a distance learning coach helping students learn accounting. I found this most rewarding because I was helping other students succeed. In my role as a coach, I provided supplemental material and sessions where we went over content and problems from the course. This provided a good review for me and helped students become more confident with the material. - What is your goal after graduation? My goal after graduation is to become a CPA before I start working at KPMG. I have taken one of the four parts of the CPA exam and hope to be done by the time I start with KPMG in Fall 2024. - What are your hobbies? I am a music fan, so I collect vinyl records. I have a little over 650, with most of my collection coming from 60s and 70s rock, but I also have soundtracks, classical, comedy and many other genres spanning from 1956 to 2020. - Do you have any advice for future graduate students? Take advantage of the new perspectives you learn from. The graduate program takes a step away from application to educate students on different ways of thinking. The professors in the graduate programs are all professionals with their own unique experiences and perspectives; students should engage with their educators more to expand their ways of thinking and how to approach different scenarios and viewpoints. #CogginCollegeofBusiness #UNF #YourCareerMastered #CogginGraduatePrograms #MACC #Graduateschool #Graduatestudent #CPA #KPMG