FOCUS
“I desire a better life for myself and getting my master’s degree will ensure a brighter future and better
prepare me to become a CPA.”
– Amber Elston A
fear of public speaking didn't keep Amber Elston from a unique and rewarding opportunity.
Te OSCPA student member and East
Central University junior accounting major was one of two students invited to speak to 150 NASBA members last month at the Western Regional Meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. Te panel she spoke on was focused on exploring Generation Z in accounting. “I was a little nervous at first,” Elston said.
“However, I did not let my nerves get the best of me and eventually they subsided.” Nerves aside, Elston was empowered by the experience and humbled by the chance to express her opinions to the seasoned professionals in attendance. “Te experience was empowering because usually seasoned professionals do not make it a point to ask the younger generations about their opinions—or, at least, that’s been my experience,” Elston said. She added, “I feel like I could not have asked for a better turnout. It was a great learning experience for the panelists as well as the NASBA members. Tose I had the opportunity to speak with afterwards implied that it went well, also.”
Te following is Elston’s summary of the questions she was asked at the meeting.
NASBA: How does being involved with Student CPT (Center for Public Trust) prepare you to become a CPA? Elston: I attended the Student Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., this year. Tis experience prepared me to work through ethical dilemmas. It equipped me with the tools needed and increased my knowledge of
20 CPAFOCUS September/October 2019
ethical leadership. Tis will benefit me not only as a CPA but in every aspect of life.
NASBA: Does student loan debt influence your decision to pursue a master’s degree? Elston: Te short answer is no. I am a first- generation college student. Te majority of my family lives below the poverty line. Although paying back student loans is not ideal, it is necessary in my case. I desire a better life for myself and getting my master’s degree will ensure a brighter future and better prepare me to become a CPA.
NASBA: What types of classes do you intend on taking to fulfill the 140-credit hour requirement for the CPA? Elston: I will be pursuing my master’s, which requires advanced accounting courses. Furthermore, I am looking forward to the CPA prep class.
NASBA: How do you like to communicate? Elston: I prefer face-to-face whenever feasible. Face-to-face is especially important when communicating things of a sensitive nature. Also, other means of communication can be taken in a way that was not intended. Emails are good for routine matters. Text messages are good for quick and easy answers.
NASBA: How do you feel about online classes? Elston: I do not like online classes. I learn best by interacting and asking questions during lecture. However, I enjoy using technology in the classroom. All of my homework is basically online, and it is an effective method of learning. I just think classes should not be completely online.
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