Return of the GAAP Spring Break Trip

Story by Ashley Plys, a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a CBSM student marketing assistant. All Images courtesy of Charlie Sparks.

After a two year hiatus, in-person events are starting to make a comeback! Over spring break, the Great Alaskan Accounting People student organization headed out to the accounting community in Alaska to meet with firms and accountants in the field. GAAP students visited Fairbanks firms on March 7, then flew down to meet up with UAA’s Accounting Club and visit Anchorage firms on March 8-9.

This trip provided students with insight into smaller and larger firms within the industry, along with a wide variety of employers, such as the FBI. One firm the group visited was BDO, located in Anchorage. Katye Stochmal, expert audit paraprofessional at BDO said, “BDO was very excited to have UAF GAAP students back in our office in person. At BDO, we strive to create a culture that supports everyone’s individuality and interests, while supporting an environment that is productive and enjoyable. Students came with great questions and really engaged with our staff. Our doors are always open to UAF and GAAP students!”

The BDO culture was something that resonated with GAAP attendee and accounting major, Alyssa Appel. “This trip was a great learning experience, since I’m fairly new to accounting. It gave me a better idea of what to expect in the industry and actually inspired me to apply for a position with BDO next year,” said Appel. She has since been offered the position!

ConocoPhillips was another interesting experience, where students met with professionals one-on-one in fast-paced, round-robin interviews. “We enjoyed having the students here. They were prepared and engaged and we were able to have good dialogue. We look forward to meeting again with the students during accounting week in the fall,” said ConocoPhillips finance supervisor, Todd Teeples.

BBA Accounting student Kristina Angelova attended the trip and found that it provided her with insights into the industry. With her two engineering degrees, it’s no surprise that she connected with ConocoPhillips. “A year ago, I didn’t even know what accounting was,” said Angelova. “Now, through GAAP and the spring break trip, I was able to experience large firms like ConocoPhillips and specifically the departments that keep their business exciting.”

The GAAP Spring Break Trip is a way for students to turn the tables and interview the accounting firms themselves. They are introduced to the wide range of options within the industry and meet professionals outside the classroom, so they can determine what is the perfect fit for them. With in-person events making a steady return, students can once again enjoy fun networking experiences and make strong connections with local businesses!