Stephanie Wright
Why did you choose to join the Merage School’s MPAc program?
I chose to join the Merage School's MPAc Program for multiple reasons. After I finished my undergrad at SMU I knew I wanted to get my Masters degree to prepare me for the CPA and my future accounting career. I visited UCI two years ago when the program was about to start. The MBA program is nationally ranked and I knew that the MPAc program would be on that same caliber, and I have not been disappointed.
How did you choose your career path?
I knew I enjoyed math and organization but I also wanted a career to use my communication skills. After my first Accounting class I knew that this was the career for me. A career in accounting can open doors into almost any industry or business career you could want.
Best thing about the Merage School?
So far, the best thing about the Merage School is how much the professors and staff care about your future success. They concentrate on teaching real world information, emphasize the recruiting process, and support you wherever you stand in your career. They don't teach from the book and attempt to tie real world information to it, they teach from real world examples and tie the academic information to what has actually happened in their own careers.
Future professional goals after completing the MPAc program?
I plan on starting my career at KPMG in Los Angeles and working there until I see the next opportunity present itself. My end career goal is to give back to the academic community and become an accounting professor by using my real world experience.
What particular skills do you think are critical for succeeding in the business world?
I think the biggest key is to know your own competitive advantage. What can you offer a firm that is different from everyone else in the room? You might not be the best at accounting or had the most experience but if you are able to use your own competitive advantage, it will take you far. Whether it is Excel, industry knowledge, communication, experience, etc., use that in any career path you choose.
What are some of your hobbies and extracurricular activities that you enjoy?
I really enjoy distance running, cooking, and I spend a lot of my time volunteering at Hillsong Church.