Student Ambassadors attract the next generation of CPAs: thousands of Ohio college students learn about the accounting major and exciting opportunities in a CPA career, thanks to The Ohio Society's Student Ambassadors. The Student Ambassador Program, funded by The Ohio CPA Foundation, was created in 2001 to promote the CPA profession to college students who have not declared a major.

• Position: Member BENEFITS

Student Ambassadors are accounting majors who are in their junior, senior, fifth year or enrolled in a graduate-level accounting program. They are chosen from participating schools based on academic achievement, as well as traits such as an outgoing personality plus strong communication and presentation skills.

This year, 15 Ambassadors will be spreading the good news about accounting on 12 Ohio campuses. With their help, students will better understand the role of accounting in the business world and consider the prospect of a career as a CPA.

"Accounting is the profession that gives the greatest insight into the business world--and provides the best opportunity for advancement. I'm excited to share my enthusiasm for the profession and let others know what accounting has to offer," said Curtis Farnsel, Student Ambassador at Bowling Green State University.

The Ambassadors plan events on campus to reach undecided students and dispel misconceptions and negative stereotypes about CPAs. Among other activities, they present information to introductory classes to generate interest from undecided and non-accounting business majors in pursuing a career in accounting. Some also keep regular office hours for students who want to speak with them one-on-one.

"I love speaking to students about their futures. If I can help a student decide what they want to do then I know that I have made a difference. I enjoy accounting, and I just want to show students that it can be a lot of fun," said Tabatha Green, Student Ambassador at Wright State University.

The Ambassadors continue this peer-to-peer networking throughout the academic year, talking about the accounting major and their future career plans as CPAs.

"Obtaining my CPA license will allow me the flexibility to assist all clients to the best of my ability. It will reassure my clients and my colleagues that I have the knowledge and experience required to not only pass the rigorous CPA exam, but also provide them with the best service possible," said Katie Reinhard, Student Ambassador at Cleveland State University.

The energy and excitement each Ambassador shows on his or her respective campus will help promote the profession and attract the best and brightest students to the accounting major.

"When I took my first accounting class, I really enjoyed the simple, yet complex rules. As I met more upperclassmen, I learned more about the field and the different career possibilities," said Valbona Bushi...