The Debits and Credits The Beta Alpha Psi and Society of Accounting Students Monthly Newsletter Issue #2. Vol #3. November 2023
Member Highlight: Julia Brown By: Nina Figetakis Meet Julia Brown, a senior accounting major from Clark Summit, PA. Julia stands out as an active member of several prestigious on-campus organizations, showcasing her commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. As a member of the international business honors society Beta Gamma Sigma, the women's business honors society Omega Beta Sigma, and Kania Women in Business, Julia has demonstrated her passion for learning and networking. Her involvement doesn't stop there – she also works part-time in the library dean's office, highlighting her impressive ability to balance academics and work. During her sophomore year, Julia took on the role of a Spanish and statistics tutor at OSSS, further contributing to the academic support system within the university. Julia also finds time for giving back to the community through volunteer activities such as fall-move in, the university's street sweep, the We Care program, and the library's annual book sale. Lastly, Julia is a newly joined candidate for BAP this year! When asked why she chose to join BAP, she responded “I chose to join BAP to connect with like-minded accounting and finance students, and to have the ability to take part in the amazing service opportunities BAP organizes each year!” Over the past summer, Julia undertook an internship at EY in their audit practice, an experience that undoubtedly enriched her understanding of the industry. Following graduation, she will be returning to EY as a full-time FSO audit associate. When asked about her future career goals, Julia responded with “My major career goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). I am currently studying for the exam, as I plan to achieve 150 credits to be eligible to sit after graduation in May. I am extremely thankful for the wonderful opportunities and experiences The University of Scranton has given me. The university, specifically its exceptional accounting professors, have instilled in me all the necessary skills to make my career and professional goals possible. I am eternally grateful for their immense dedication to seeing their students succeed.” As Julia embarks on her journey with BAP and her future at EY, we wish her the very best in her endeavors. The University of Scranton is proud to have students like Julia who exemplify excellence in academics, leadership, and community service. Good luck, Julia! 1
BAP & SAS Members Future Internship and Full-Time Positions By: Kaleigh Timmons With the bulk of recruiting season behind us, it’s time to celebrate our BAP & SAS members who have secured internship and full-time job offers for the upcoming year: Member
Major/Minor
Internship
Full-time
Major: Accounting
EY – FSO Assurance Intern
Major: Accounting Minor: Forensic Accounting
Wiss & Co. - Audit and Assurance
Major: Accounting & Finance Minor: BLDR
Wiss & Co. - CFO Advisory
Senior
Major: Finance Concentration: Financial Services
J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. Global Finance and Business Management Summer Analyst
Brett McCartney
Major: Accounting
RKL - Financial Management Services Consultant Baker Tilly - Audit Deloitte - Tax
Major: Accounting
FORVIS - Audit KPMG - Audit
Major: Accounting
EY - Audit
Major: Accounting & Finance Minor: BLDR
Deloitte - Audit and Assurance
Deloitte - Incoming Audit and Assurance Associate
Major: Accounting Minor: Finance & BLDR
EY - Financial Accounting Advisory Service
EY - Incoming Financial Accounting Advisory Service Associate
Major: Accounting & Philosophy Minor: Forensic Accounting & BLDR
Cullari Carrico - Audit PwC - Assurance
PwC - Incoming Assurance Associate
PwC - Assurance
Senior
Major: Accounting Minor: Forensic Accounting
PwC - Incoming Assurance Associate
Ashley Zaita
Major: Accounting
Wiss & Co. - CFO Advisory CohnReznick - Tax Deloitte - Insurance Tax
Julia Brown Senior
Nina Figetakis Senior
Ryan Hanley Sophomore
Jacob Jureidini
Senior
Annalisa Mechanick Graduate Student
James Powell
EY – Incoming FSO Assurance Associate
J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. Incoming Rotational Analyst for the Global Finance and Business Management Program
KPMG - Incoming Audit Associate
Senior
Madelyn Ronan Senior
John Sheehan Senior
Kaleigh Timmons Senior
Dylan Vigna
Senior
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Alumni Spotlight: Ryan Schultze By: Brianna Kerrane Meet Ryan Schultze, a distinguished University of Scranton alumnus who graduated in the spring of 2021, with a major in accounting and minors in finance and business analytics. A proud member of Alpha Sigma Nu and the Society of Accounting Students, Ryan's commitment to excellence extended beyond the classroom. For three years, he served as a resident assistant, and for two summer sessions, took on the role of an orientation assistant, helping new students transition smoothly into university life. During summer 2020, Ryan interned with RSM, a top-ranked mid-sized accounting firm. At the end of his internship, Ryan received a full-time offer with RSM and began his career in their Gaithersburg, VA office. Ryan speaks highly of his time at RSM, emphasizing the invaluable opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and networking. In December 2022, Ryan ventured into a new chapter of his career, joining Chick-Fil-A Inc. in their Atlanta office as a restaurant accountant. Reflecting on this experience, Ryan appreciates the positive aspects of working with a fantastic team in a new city. After approximately nine months, Ryan decided to return to public accounting, and currently serves as an Audit Associate for CohnReznick. In his role, Ryan undertakes significant responsibilities, guiding audit phases such as planning, interim fieldwork, year-end fieldwork, and account closure. Committed to professional development, he diligently maintains and completes his Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements in accordance with the CPA state board's standards. Ryan's day-to-day activities involve effective communication with his team. Throughout the fall, Ryan and his team are responsible for performing interim testing for income statement accounts and fixed asset additions. In addition to this, Ryan mentioned his role in reviewing his clients’ new lease agreements and highlighting significant changes and information. Ryan also discussed his enthusiastic participation in an employee resource group that supports Veterans in the workplace. BAP members are eagerly anticipating Ryan's insights on the Young Professional Panel being held on Thursday, November 30th starting at 5:30pm in the Pearn Auditorium (BRN 228). During this session, Ryan and his fellow alums will discuss their experiences and achievements which will undoubtedly inspire our Scranton students. Ryan Schultze stands as a shining example of intelligence, accomplishment, and a commitment to giving back to the community. For those interested in learning more about careers at CohnReznick, please connect with Ryan on LinkedIn. 3
BAP & SAS Calendar of Upcoming Events: ● ● ● ● ● ●
Tue, 11/14 @ 11:30am (BRN 228): EY: Commitment to an Inclusive Culture Wed, 11/15: Recruiter-in-Residence: PwC Thu, 11/30 @ 5:30pm (BRN 228): Young Professional Panel Tue, 12/5 @ 11:30am (BRN 312/314): Drop-in Tutoring Tue, 12/5 @ 5pm (BRN 500): Cookies, Cocoa, & Cards Service Event Thu, 12/7 @ 5:30pm (BRN 312/314): Drop-in Tutoring
Please contact Nina Figetakis, SAS & BAP Secretary, with questions concerning attendance and participation.
BAP & SAS Build Blessing Bags with the Help of PwC By: Brianna Kerrane For the second year, our BAP and SAS members orchestrated a Blessing Bag Drive for the NEPA Youth Shelter, located in downtown Scranton. The NEPA Youth Shelter is a nonprofit organization that provides housing and after-school activities to local high schoolers in need. The shelter also provides food, clothing, educational resources, counseling, and a safe place for teenagers. As Scranton students, our members understand the significant impact that the NEPA Youth Shelter has on the community. We held our Blessing Bag Drive throughout October where students, faculty, and staff donated individually packaged non-perishable food and beverages, clothing items, water bottles, and personal care products. At the conclusion of the drive, BAP and SAS held a Build-a-Blessing Bag, spon sored by PwC. Several firm representatives (and Scranton alumni) came to support our cause and began the community service event with a discussion on the importance of community service to one’s professional career. Each of the PwC representatives spoke about their personal experiences volunteering and how the firm dedicates forty hours each year for every employee to participate in volunteer initiatives. The representatives also discussed how they were able to expand their network through these experiences. After the presentation concluded, our BAP and SAS members along with our PwC friends packed more than 70 University of Scranton drawstring bags with the donated items, hand-written greeting cards, and Scranton accounting fact cards for distribution at the NEPA Youth Shelter. Thank you to our members, everyone who donated to the cause, and our PwC friends for having such a successful event! 4
Accounting Knowledge is Power By: Ryan Hanley “EY Unveils Fruits of $1.4 Billion Artificial-Intelligence Investment” By: Isabelle Bousquette
Congratulations to our BAP & SAS Members who have demonstrated perfect attendance this semester: Nina Figetakis Ryan Hanley Brett McCartney Annalisa Mechanick Frederick Rollo Madelyn Ronan Kaleigh Timmons Ashley Zaita Keep up the good work!
In September, Big 4 Firm EY announced a massive $1.4 Billion investment into Artificial Intelligence (AI). The announcement noted that the firm would also spend significant capital to train its staff members on the firm’s own AI platform. This statement comes after PwC, KPMG, and Deloitte announced they would all invest over $1 Billion in AI earlier this year. Read more here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/ey-unveils-fruits-of-1-4billion-artificial-intelligence-investment-ab8d5b5a “AICPA and NASBA to Launch Learning Program Designed to Ease Path to CPA Licensure” By: Jeff May & Thomas Kenny Earlier this year, The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) announced they plan to launch an initiative learning program with the Tulane School of Professional Advancement. This initiative has been designed to provide post-graduate students with a new, less-expensive method to complete the 150-credit hour requirement needed to obtain the CPA license.
Read more here: https://nasba.org/blog/2023/08/04/aicpa-and-nasba-to-launch-learning-program-designedto-ease-path-to-cpa-licensure/ “Deloitte Almost Reaches $60 Billion in Global Revenue in 2022” By: Jason Bramwell Deloitte, the first of the Big 4 firms to report 2022 annual revenues, announced the firm reached revenue totaling $59.3 Billion, up 19.6% from 2021’s revenues of $50.2 Billion. The firm’s earnings growth was particularly attributed to the substantial expansion of the firm’s consulting branch, which accounted for $25.8 Billion in revenues last year. Read more here: https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2022/09/08/deloitte-almost-reaches-60-billion-inglobal-revenue-in-2022/70477/
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Meet the Firms: Nisivoccia By: Madelyn Ronan Nisivoccia, a renowned certified public accounting and wealth management firm, has been serving clients since its inception in 1970. Founded by Raymond Nisivoccia, the company has grown to become a respected name in New Jersey, with a commitment to excellence and community support at its core. The firm has expanded its footprint and services, boasting three offices strategically located in Mt. Arlington, Bridgewater, and Newton. Nisivoccia offers a comprehensive range of accounting, tax, and audit services to a diverse client base, including profit, not-for-profit, and governmental entities. In 2022, Nisivoccia solidified its position by merging with Anderson & Company, PC, strengthening its ability to provide top-tier services to its clients. The firm's commitment to excellence was further validated when they received the ClearlyRated designation for "Best in Accounting for Client Service Excellence" for the second consecutive year in 2022. Nisivoccia is not just a business; it's a family. The Nisivoccia Way, a core philosophy of respect and community engagement, permeates everything they do. With a casual, family-like atmosphere, the firm ensures that both staff and clients are treated with the level of respect they deserve and expect. The respect doesn't stop at the office doors; Nisivoccia continually invests in the community that has placed its faith in the firm for over five decades. Nisivoccia is committed to giving back. They collaborate with over 275 not-for-profit organizations, donating billable time, serving on boards, attending events, and promoting important community messages. This dedication to community is a testament to their strong sense of social responsibility. Internship applications are live now! Nisivoccia offers dynamic internship programs in various fields: Audit: Gain hands-on experience in auditing. Tax: Explore the world of taxation with experienced professionals. Government: Learn about government-related accounting and financial management. Nisivoccia's internships provide numerous advantages: Real-world Experience: Gain valuable hands-on, real-world client experience. Teamwork: Collaborate with experienced CPAs and work as part of a dedicated team. Flexibility: Enjoy a paid internship with a flexible work schedule. Firm Activities: Participate in various firm activities and exclusive intern events. Are you interested in learning more about Nisivoccia and the internship and career opportunities they offer? Then please reach out to our campus recruiter, Samantha Algieri, at salgieri@nisivoccia.com, or visit their website at https://www.nisivoccia.com/careers/. 6
BAP Strives to Impact KSOM: More Than Just Numbers Event By: Dr. Amanda Marcy, CPA On Wednesday, November 1st, the Nu Kappa Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, in collaboration with the Scranton Accounting Department and PwC, orchestrated a transformative event – "More Than Just Numbers: An Accounting Exploration." This impactful service activity aimed not only to inform interested KSOM students about the myriad opportunities within the accounting field but also to dispel the stereotype that accountants are merely mundane bean-counters. The event drew over 30 attendees, spanning first-year students to seniors and encompassing a diverse range of business majors and undecided students. The evening commenced with insights from Scranton PwC alumni Ron Reiprich, Trust Solutions Assurance Partner; Patrick Tuzzo, Deals Manager; and Phil Cocco, Assurance Associate. They delved into various career paths in accounting, emphasizing the skills and qualities essential for success in the field. The alumni highlighted the expanding opportunities in public accounting, managerial accounting, forensic accounting, and governmental accounting. They stressed that accounting, given its evolving landscape, is no longer confined to traditional norms. Aspiring professionals should also equip themselves with knowledge and experience in finance, business/data analytics, and technology. Soft skills such as leadership, communication, time management, and teamwork were underscored as crucial for professional growth. The event provided a unique platform for attendees to engage with current accounting students. Panelists Kaleigh Timmons, Madelyn Ronan, Annalisa Mechanick, and Dylan Vigna shared their personal journeys into accounting, their experiences within the major, and insights into their internships and extracurricular involvement. The candid dialogue offered valuable perspectives for those navigating their academic and professional paths. The evening culminated in a pizza party networking session, generously sponsored by PwC, fostering connections among students, alumni, and professionals. Adding 7
an extra layer of excitement, two lucky students—First-year Business Administration major Owen Tillinghast and First-year Business Undecided major Brendan Tennant—walked away with Amazon Gift Cards. It was an enriching experience for all participants, underscoring the vibrant community spirit within the KSOM family. Any student interested in pursuing an accounting major or exploring accounting career opportunities is encouraged to reach out to Dr. Amanda Marcy at amanda.marcy@scranton.edu.
A Burrito-ful Day for BAP By: Dr. Amanda Marcy, CPA A round of applause for our diligent Treasurer, John Sheehan, who organized a highly successful fundraising event at Chipotle Mexican Grill on Saturday, October 21 st! The event proved to be a fantastic opportunity for our club to not only enjoy some delicious food, but also to bolster our financial resources. Thanks to John's efforts and the enthusiastic participation of our club members and supporters, we secured 33% of the event sales. This accomplishment translates to more than $100 in funds that will be earmarked to support our diverse range of club activities. The primary aim of our fundraising initiatives is to provide financial support for the various endeavors of our student-run organization. These activities include member attendance at regional and national conferences, engaging site visits, impactful community service initiatives, and a spectrum of professional development and networking events. We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated in this Chipotle fundraising event. Your contribution is invaluable and directly contributes to the enrichment and success of our club. As we continue to strive for excellence, we look forward to the continued support of our members and friends in future fundraising endeavors.
Contact Us! Faculty Advisor: Dr. Amanda Marcy, CPA – amanda.marcy@scranton.edu President: Kaleigh Timmons – kaleigh.timmons@scranton.edu Vice President: Madelyn Ronan – madelyn.ronan@scranton.edu Treasurer: John Sheehan – john.sheehan2@scranton.edu Secretary: Nina Figetakis – nina.figetakis@scranton.edu Social Engagement Director: Brianna Kerrane – brianna.kerrane@scranton.edu Junior Officer: Ryan Hanley – ryan.hanley@scranton.edu Email: uofsbap@gmail.com Instagram: uofs_bap_sas 8
It’s Classified Information Become a PICPA Student Affiliate Member: IT’S FREE! Interested students should use the QR code below to access the membership application. If you have any additional questions, please contact Scranton’s PICPA Student Ambassador, Kaleigh Timmons, at kaleigh.timmons@scranton.edu.
Scan Here to Join Today! Upcoming FREE PICPA Student Events and Webinars:
Upcoming FREE AICPA Student Events and Webinars:
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Upcoming FREE Gleim Student Webinars:
Register Here: https://gleim.clickmeeting.com/whyaccounting-is-a-proven-career-choice/register Upcoming FREE UWorld Student Webinars: Register Here for the Saturday, November 18th session, 11am-2pm: https://events.uworld.com/Free_BEC_ Bootcamp
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