CPA: 3 letters equal a million possibilities
0By Katelyn Simpson
The Kentucky Society of Certified Public Accountants (KYCPA) CEO, Penny Gold, was on campus on Tuesday, Nov. 11 to talk to students about the opportunities as an accounting major and to inform students about what the CPA test is all about. Gold talked about the advantages to obtaining a CPA license and all the doors it would open for students, especially at this time.
“It’s a great time to be a CPA,” said Gold.
Gold brought with her Bob Patterson, founder and owner of a small accounting firm in Louisville, Ky. called Patterson & Company. Patterson gave students a real-life insight on his journey in the business world and was able to provide some first-hand tips for becoming a CPA and what to do after you become one. Patterson talked about his own testing experience and claimed, “It was the hardest thing I have ever done, and I’m glad that I don’t have to do it again.”
Both Gold and Patterson assured students that the time, effort and money that students would have to put into the test would all be worth it in the end
“I think the CPA test is very beneficial and sets you up for success in the future. I’m nervous about taking the exam, but I believe it’s reachable with some hard work,” said senior, James Brooks
The KYCPA has several college programs that they offer such as the KYCPA student membership which is a great way to network and develop leadership skills. Membership includes a subscription to The Kentucky CPA Journal and ASK (Accounting Students in Kentucky) e-newsletter, a $300 discount on the Becker review course, and makes you eligible to serve on KYCPA committees. The PEAK competition is another program that is offered by the KYCPA. It is a Jeopardy-style accounting competition where students have the opportunity to win $1,000 scholarships. Also, KYCPA holds Becker CPA exam workshops where students can get review time with a Becker representative.
“It was awesome for the KYCPA to visit UPIKE. The KYCPA taught me many things about the profession and mentioned great career opportunities. I look forward to seeing them this year at the PEAK competition next April,” said senior Jarred Thacker, PEAK team captain.