Entering the world of accounting and finance can feel daunting, but the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) is designed to pave the way for aspiring professionals. Just ask ACAP alumni, who consistently highlight the program’s transformative impact on their career trajectories. Their experiences underscore how ACAP provides crucial exposure, education, and real-world connections, setting students up for success in the competitive accounting industry.
Darius L. Thompson, a CPA and Senior Manager, Assurance at Ernst & Young LLP, credits ACAP as being “extremely beneficial to launching my career.” He emphasizes the unique exposure ACAP offered to African-American CPAs and business professionals. This early introduction was pivotal, forging lasting relationships and providing invaluable knowledge that he continues to leverage throughout his career. Thompson notes the program’s comprehensive impact, stating, “My overall experience with ACAP was tremendous as I was able to grow more as a person as well as develop skills outside of just accounting and finance.” His resounding recommendation: “I would highly recommend any student interested in any aspect of business to participate in an ACAP!”
Sydney Nelson, MPA, CIADirector, Supplier Diversity at Advocate Health, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the critical elements ACAP provided for career validation: “exposure, education, and experience.” Nelson’s participation in NABA Milwaukee’s ACAP in 2007 offered her initial exposure to accounting as a viable career path. The program’s introductory education in core accounting and business concepts gave her a significant advantage in her high school accounting courses. Furthermore, connections made through NABA, facilitated by ACAP, led to college internships, providing her with invaluable “A Day in the Life” experiences in the field. Nelson concludes, “I walked away from ACAP knowing anything is possible,” and affirms her ongoing commitment to the program: “I will continue to be an avid supporter of ACAP, its outcomes, and how it truly makes an impact on the future leaders of tomorrow.”
These testimonials from Darius Thompson and Sydney Nelson vividly illustrate the power of the Accounting Career Awareness Program. ACAP not only opens doors to the accounting profession but also equips students with the network, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to thrive. For anyone considering a career in accounting, ACAP represents a significant stepping stone towards achieving professional success.
