The Massachusetts Society of CPAs hosted two cohorts of the
Running from July 17-21 and July 24-28 at Suffolk University in Boston, the free programs allowed students to gain awareness about accounting and business-related careers through activities ranging from networking opportunities and mock interviews to creating vision boards. Highlights of the program included a week-long case study competition judged by a past ACE participant, Suffolk faculty and accounting professionals from various firms such as BDO USA, Deloitte and Grant Thornton.
Case study winners each received a $100 Visa gift card and MassCPAs swag. The winners included:
- Pranav Abburi, Chelmsford High School;
- Aleksa Boteo, Notre Dame Cristo Rey;
- Wellesley Da Silva, Brockton High School;
- Amy Harden, Reading Memorial High School;
- Diana Heung, Lowell High School;
- Abigail MacNeil, Peabody Veterans Memorial High School; and
- Brianna Reyes Cruz, Excel Academy Charter High School.
"MassCPAs has an established legacy of championing aspiring accounting students," said Amy Pitter, president and CEO of MassCPAs, in a statement. "Our ACE program serves as a comprehensive gateway for students to deeply explore the countless opportunities within the accounting profession. With a dedicated commitment to enhancing diversity in the accounting industry, we are confident that these cohorts of ACE participants will make significant strides in their educational and professional journeys. The accomplishments of our ACE students fill us with pride, and we eagerly anticipate their continued growth and success within the profession!"
All 26 students received a $100 Macy's gift card to purchase professional outfits, along with a program completion certificate, as well as a tour of Fenway Park with a presentation from Timothy Zue, executive vice president and CFO of the Boston Red Sox.
ACE is part of MassCPAs' commitment to growing and diversifying the accounting pipeline in Massachusetts by exposing students to accounting careers. Throughout the year, the state society offers resources, events, programs, scholarships, conferences and free memberships to train the next generation of CPAs and bring more people into the profession as a whole.
"I truly valued my time at ACE and appreciate the professionals who guided me through the world of accounting," said Pranav Abburi, a Chelmsford High School junior, in a press release. "Not only did I make wonderful new friends, but I also formed important connections. I am confident that the skills I have learned from this program will serve an important role in my future!"
