OSCPA student ambassador thrives on embracing her authenticity

By Cecilia Yontz, OSCPA marketing and communications intern

Authenticity and persistence are two things that former OSCPA Student Ambassador Ayana Witherspoon believes have helped her stand out thus far in her college career.

Her advice to students navigating the internship process: “Be your authentic self,” said Witherspoon, a junior majoring in political science at Wilberforce University.

A self-proclaimed “internship guru,” Witherspoon has sought out and landed many great internship opportunities. This inspired her to help other students discover what opportunities await them.

“I love doing internships and being able to motivate my peers and tell them where they can reach out and go for resources to get these internships and earn these hours is really fulfilling,” she said.

Witherspoon’s relationship with OSCPA started during her fellowship with the Ohio Auditor of State’s office where she learned more about accounting and its benefits, even as a political science major. After attending CPA Camp last summer, Witherspoon knew she wanted to bring the Student Ambassador program to her university.

“Accounting spreads everywhere. You can't escape it; everyone has accounting,” said Witherspoon. “I took on the Student Ambassador role to expose more students to the opportunities they can get within the accounting field.

Many students might not even know of the CPA Exam, and there are business majors that might want to convert to accounting majors. I'm able to spread knowledge and pay it forward, and I’ve always enjoyed doing that.”

Outside of her time as an ambassador, Witherspoon played the euphonium in the Wilberforce University marching band and was a member of the women’s golf team. She encourages others to follow their interests and put themselves out there.

“Have courage and go for it. Don't look down, just go for it,” says Witherspoon. “Anything I've ever wanted to do, I dare myself to just do it. I want to look back when I graduate from college and have no regrets.”

Witherspoon plans to take the LSAT and is looking forward to starting her career path following graduation.

Cecilia Yontz, OSCPA marketing and communications intern