April 2000

Society Visits St. John's University

In the NYSSCPA's continuing effort to strengthen relations with New York colleges, Recruitment for CPA Careers Committee member Don Kiamie met with more than 40 Beta Alpha Psi members at St. John's University on March 1. Kiamie spoke about the future of the profession, his career experiences, and Society benefits for students.

"I think it is very important to tell accounting students how diverse the profession is," he said. "I like to use my path as an example. I have been in both public and private accounting fields, and I have worked in three different industries. Currently I work in real estate and also teach accounting."

Among the Beta Apha Psi students in attendance was Josephine Cucharra, an NYSSCPA Excellence in Accounting Scholarship recipient for the past three years. The scholarship is one of the many resources the Society offers to encourage accounting students.

"It's very important to know just how diverse the profession is," Cucharra said. "As an accounting student, you begin to realize how many options are available to you."

In addition to discussing specific Society benefits for students, Kiamie stressed how belonging to a professional association can help with career development. Students can join the NYSSCPA as associate members.

"Belonging to a professional association like the Society is a great opportunity for students," Kiamie said. "They not only can increase their technical knowledge but also can network with many professionals who can be important to their future."

In the past six months, Kiamie has also visited Concordia College, Hunter College, Long Island University, and Mercy College. He has attended career events at Middle School 95 and Intermediate School 117 in New York City sponsored by the Walks of Life program, and he spoke to the Urban Peace Academy in Harlem.

Members interested in volunteering to speak with students should contact NYSSCPA Recruitment Specialist Sanjay Paranandi at (212) 719-8364, (800) 633-6320, or sparanandi@nysscpa.org. *