Aparna Akella

UC Berkeley, Class of 2023

Major: Applied Mathematics, focus on Business Analytics
Email: aparnaakella@berkeley.edu

My experience in the BCPA program was an engaging and exhilarating experience. I had the ability to interact on a more personal level with professionals in the accounting industry and gain insight into various accounting practices in the classroom. My favorite part of the professional aspect of the program was meeting recruiters at subsequent events and being able to discuss with them the various responsibilities and practices within firms. The academic experience was also enriching, and I enjoyed the auditing class I took because it led me to discover the career path I want to follow in accounting. BCPA program also showed me how I can combine various academic disciplines in order to adapt to technological innovations used in accounting. The skills and knowledge I gained are valuable assets that I am able to use for my career endeavors.

Thanks to the BCPA program, I was able to solidify my career path, and also better prepare myself professionally for the accounting industry.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want to connect!

Sage Kasick

UC Berkeley, Class of 2025

Major: Intended Business Administration
Email: kasick@berkeley.edu

The BCPA program is an excellent opportunity to explore your interest in accounting and to pursue your professional aspirations in the field. The courses, which will prepare you for the CPA exam, are taught by experienced professors who are truly invested in your success. Beyond the coursework, the program offers invaluable opportunities to network with industry professionals and recruiters from top accounting firms, giving you an edge before the recruiting season begins. My favorite part of the program was the people: being surrounded by driven and supportive professors, professionals, and students was truly inspiring. I’m beyond grateful for the community and unique opportunities that the BCPA program has given me.

Please reach out to me if you have any questions or if you would like some insight into what my experience was like in the program!

Darren Lee

UC Berkeley, Class of 2024

Major: Economics
Email: delee@berkeley.edu

The BCPA program has been a home for me away from home. Being confused about what to do in my first summer at Berkeley, I decided to enroll in the BCPA program and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made at Berkeley. Here, I’ve not only been able to make great friends that were not only students from Berkeley but also visiting students. I’ve also been able to find my passion in tax accounting and policy, something that I didn’t expect at all.
The BCPA program gives a detailed, comprehensive introduction to accounting knowledge in a very accommodating manner. It ensures that all students can maximize what they get out of the program, such as by having classes in the evening so that students that have to work and commute won’t miss out on anything. The program also came with the benefit of a terrific range of opportunities in the form of its small class size, exclusive alumni network, office visits, and amazing faculty and staff that all come together to help you excel in your professional and academic career. The best part is that by the end of the program you won’t only be eligible to take the CPA exam, which is a great boost that recruiters look for, but you will be able to read and track the stories of businesses through their financial reports. You’ll be able to tell stories just by looking at numbers!
Do feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about the program!

Natalia Shamoon

UC Berkeley, Class of 2025

Major: Intended Business Administration
Email: nataliashamoon@berkeley.edu

My participation in BCPA served as a vital exploratory experience for learning both technical accounting skills as well as intangible information insights to the public accounting industry. For motivated students like myself, the introductory summer program fosters academic excellence as a result of dedicated professors, thoughtful programming, and extraordinary CPA advising faculty. All students are provided customized advice, resources, and unlimited support; making the hefty CPA coursework and recruiting experiences extremely manageable. One of my favorite memories from this summer was studying on weekends at local coffee shops with my high-performing peers, discussing more about current events, and connecting over shared student experiences. BCPA provides unique and student-oriented recruiting events both on campus as well as in-person visits to firms which are of utmost value for students interested in recruiting in both Big 4 public accounting and midsize firms.

If you are unsure if the program is right for you, please reach out to me via email to set up a coffee chat to expand on the information I’ve shared or to ask any follow up questions!

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