Accounting Students Gain Career Wisdom and Experience on Career Road Trip to Forvis Mazars

Commonwealth University students got a behind the scenes look at the day-to-day life of a career in accounting when they visited Forvis Mazars on September 24.  

The road trip was initiated and coordinated by Accounting faculty member, Joan McDonald, CPA. After an office tour, students heard from a panel of Bloomsburg alumni who are employed by Forvis Mazars about interview best practices, resume tips, industry standards, and the required professional skillset to be successful.

Students and employees also enjoyed a networking lunch, after which a recruiter from Forvis Mazars spoke to students about what sets the company apart from other CPA firms, as well as potential internship and full-time employment opportunities with the firm.

“Forvis Mazars provided an outstanding professional development program for our students. They were able to hear from our alumni in a wide range of positions about what it's like working in audit and tax, and spend time with each of them one-on-one,” said McDonald, who also serves as the faculty advisor of the Student Accounting Association. “The tour of the office gave them an idea of what the office environment is like at an accounting firm and the campus recruiter provided them with insight into what he looks for in resumes and virtual interviews. We thank them and the Bloomsburg alumni who made this trip a great experience.”

Once they returned to campus, students were encouraged to send follow-up emails and thank you messages, add the alumni to their LinkedIn networks, and apply for positions within the organization. Students said they enjoyed meeting new people, networking & learning more about the company, and returned to campus more comfortable networking with and talking to professionals.

Career Road Trips are part of Professional U at Commonwealth University, a career community of faculty and staff, alumni, and employers who provide students with opportunities for career experiences, professional connections and development, and financial support along their journey from college students to confident professionals.