COAP 2000

As a counselor and NYSSCPA representative, it was a truly amazing experience to see the student’s eyes aglow with not only enlightenment, but more importantly a drive to succeed. It was uplifting beyond measure.

From June 24-29, 2000, the Career Opportunities in the Accounting Profession (COAP) program held its fourth consecutive residency program at Hofstra University in Hempstead, Long Island.

The program, headed by Edward McDougal, Jr., was an intense four-day symposium comprised of workshops and lectures on such topics as understanding financial statements, resume writing skills, time management, and college preparation. Geared towards ethnic students historically under-represented in the finance and accounting field, this program not only educates the students, but also provides a foundation for networking as they prepare for their college careers.

The majority of the students shared with me the fact that they had no prior knowledge of not only the vast majority of people in the finance world, but also had no prior exposure to corporate America.

During the program, participants had the opportunity to visit JP Morgan, Computer Associates, Deloitte and Touche, and Margolin, Winer, Evens LLP.

The Hofstra University setting - a member of the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta -- houses numerous wall-enclosed gardens, which were ideal for rare quiet moments for the students to reflect and enjoy the experience. The participants also shared with counselors reflections of their experience with the program, and concerns about college life and their future careers.

Heartfelt, teary-eyed good-byes capped off the Thursday evening graduation banquet where guidance counselors and parents alike basked in the pride of their star student’s/child’s accomplishments.

Students attended the program without having to pay any out-of-pocket expenses. All expenses-including room, board, and all field trips were covered via funding provided by private donors, corporations, and trust funds.

"Through generous donations, many minority students such as myself have been given the opportunity to be exposed to the business world and college experience," said Jubaid Choudhury, a graduate of the COAP class of 1998. "This had been a magnificent learning experience for myself and other students which will guide us in our futures."

The Prudential Insurance Company donated $7,000. The Community Trust of NY donated $5,000. The Pepsi-Cola Corporation donated $3,000. NYSSCPA members were also very generous in donating approximately $20,000 to the COAP program to date via a donation check-off on their dues invoices.

All donations are considered charitable contributions and are, therefore, tax-deductible. Society members interested in contributing to the COAP program can contact Edward W. Parker at (212) 719-8313 or eparker@nysscpa.org.