Student Ambassadors

Undergraduate Major: Criminal Justice
Undergraduate School: NC Central University
Hometown: Warsaw, NC
Accounting Concentrations: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Watching sports, specifically Chapel Hill and the New England Patriots

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The MAC program offers a strong academic foundation with rigorous coursework that is highly valued in the accounting field. UNC has an excellent network of alumni, as well as strong ties with top companies in accounting, consulting, and finance.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
The frameworks and standards that ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in financial decision-making. Also, how to manage short-term assets and liabilities (like inventory, receivables, and payables) to ensure liquidity and operational efficiency.

Undergraduate Major: Management
Undergraduate School: Fisher College
Hometown: Mays Landing, NJ
Accounting Concentrations: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
I love to play piano, collect records, and spend time with my wife when I’m not studying.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The school has an impeccable reputation, and I was only more impressed the more I researched the MAC program specifically – plus it was close to home.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I specialize in indirect tax, and my studies have allowed me to speak with confidence in areas such as US direct tax, and enter and understand/contribute to conversations in the broader financial department in general. I am getting C-suite exposure after being chosen to present our liability accounts to executive management to show changes.

Undergraduate Major: Mathematical Economics
Undergraduate School: The University of Pennsylvania
Hometown: Madison, NJ

What are some of your hobbies?
Baking (sourdough bread and desserts), fitness (Peloton cycling, Pilates), and outdoor activities (hiking and exploring new trails).

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program because of its excellent resources and strong reputation. Since I was looking for an online program, it stood out to me as one that provides the same high-quality education as an in-person program, which was very important to me.

What is something you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting?
I particularly enjoyed the Data Analytics for Accountants (MAC854) course, as it demonstrated how technology can streamline processes and enhance efficiency.

Undergraduate Major: Media and Journalism
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Waxhaw, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit and FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Working out and reading

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I did go to UNC for undergrad and felt like I had some unfinished business when it came to Kenan-Flagler. I missed the boat to pursue opportunities there as an undergrad but was very familiar with the reputation and vast network that comes with the name. It was a no brainer for me to start my graduate school search here, and after doing my research, I liked what I saw. Particularly, the program’s openness to pivoters like myself and their focus on developing leaders within the industry.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
With only 3 official classes completed, I’m still very early on in my MAC journey. The thing that I’ve found most interesting in the classroom is how accessible it has been to learn the content. As someone with zero experience in accounting, I was really interested to see if the program could walk the walk in terms of how it caters to all experience levels. So far, I’ve found that it does!

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: Rutgers University
Hometown: Basking Ridge, NJ
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Wood working and home renovation

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
During my time in the MAC program, I’ve been able to directly apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to my work as a staff auditor. Courses like auditing and financial reporting have helped me better understand complex topics and build a strong technical foundation. This combination of academic learning and real-world experience has shaped how I approach my work and continues to support my growth in the profession.

Undergraduate Major: Philosophy
Undergraduate School: Towson University
Hometown: Germantown, MD
Accounting Concentrations: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Writing and traveling.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Top talent should work with top institutions. I have two healthy, beautiful babies and I want to be the sharpest financial analyst in the Navy, while serving our country as an active duty Logistics Supply Officer. I served operationally on a nuclear powered fast-attack submarine in the Pacific (Hawaii and Guam). Now that I’m stationed on shore duty in Washington D.C., serving as a Department of Energy Financial Analyst at the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program’s headquarters, earning a Master of Accounting degree is my next career milestone. The UNC MAC Program earned the prestige that comes with a top-tier, world-class education and I’m proud to earn my graduate degree with the best in the business.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
MAC718: Introductory Finance’s Net Present Value modules supported my mid-year evaluations of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program’s (NNPP), Department of Energy (DOE) funded fiscal year 2025, multi-billion-dollar Facilities & Infrastructure portfolio, to recapitalize mission-critical capabilities for the nuclear Submarine Industrial Base. Program analyses were successfully briefed to the White House Office of Management and Budget and Congressional appropriators to inform the NNPP’s DOE fiscal year 2026 annual budget request.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: High Point University
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Golf, exercise, and going to the lake

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Creating free cash flows, FIFO, LIFO, and depreciation calculation

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: Florida State University
Hometown: Weston, FL
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Arts and crafts, and music

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
It’s the future, it’s STEM and it’s here! The instruction and modules in the program are amazing.

Undergraduate Major: History
Undergraduate School: NCSU
Hometown: Apex, NC

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, cooking, and gardening

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Because this program is the best of the best out there!

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I learned how everything rolls into each other. Each piece supports the next piece which builds the puzzle.

Undergraduate Major: Psychology
Undergraduate School: University of Massachusetts – Amherst
Hometown: Springfield, MA
Accounting Concentrations: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Pickleball and baking

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
There are many facets of the UNC Kenan-Flagler MAC program that set it apart from the rest. For me, the driving factor for choosing the MAC program was the reputation of the program. From the curriculum to the faculty, it was particularly evident from the high CPA pass rate that the program would prepare me for a successful career in accounting. Additionally, as someone who works full time, the flexibility of the program was immensely important to me. A strong alumni network, and ties to top employers, really sealed the deal for me.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Prior to starting on my journey through the MAC program, I was completely unaware of how relatable the material would be to my current job. After taking Accounting Systems Essentials my first semester, and Auditing and Assurance Services my second term, I have gained a wealth of knowledge that I have been applying in the workplace. From learning the ins and outs of the revenue cycle, to finally understanding the need for external audits, I have found the curriculum immensely informative.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: Park University
Hometown: Santa Rosa, CA
Accounting Concentration: Tax

Hobbies
Family time, fixing things, and finding new adventures

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
The high standard for entry, the alumni network, and academic recognition.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
One of the biggest lessons I learned quickly was the amount of judgement and subjectivity that is involved in accounting. Many people consider accounting to be an objective rules-based profession but the amount of judgement and subjective interpretation will be surprising to many prospective students.

Undergraduate Major: International Relations/Global Business
Undergraduate School: University of Southern California
Hometown: Alamo, CA
Accounting Concentration: FAR

Hobbies
Playing with my dog, reading, and going wine tasting

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
UNC MAC is so much more involved and engaging than typical online degree programs. You have to participate and apply yourself so much more, and truly feel like part of the school.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I’ve been able to take what I’ve learned from class to improve my company’s revenue recognition process.

Undergraduate Major: Accounting
Undergraduate School: University of Kansas
Hometown: Kansas City, MO
Accounting Concentration: FAR

Hobbies
Traveling, writing, and spending time with my family and friends.

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
The flexibility of the online format which allows me to remain focused on my career. I also appreciate the reputation of UNC and wanted to join the alumni network.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Fully embracing the technical side of accounting has given me a greater confidence in my ability to perform as Director of Internal Audit. I am pursuing the CPA so that I can continue to grow in my career. My favorite course so far has been the Professional Communication for Accountants class because it provided me with frameworks and tools to become a more effective communicator.

Undergraduate Major: History
Undergraduate School: Florida International University
Hometown: Miami, FL
Accounting Concentration: Tax

Hobbies
Cooking, weightlifting, yoga, and going to the beach

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
Access to amazing networks, great reviews from former students, and UNC-Chapel Hill’s reputation.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
The Excel course has been especially helpful and practical; the coursework is challenging but rewarding.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: Appalachian State University
Hometown: Monroe, NC
Accounting Concentration: FAR

Hobbies
Spending time with my family and watching sports.

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
The ability to focus on financial reporting and the program’s reputation.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I have been able to apply a lot of what I’m learning directly to my work. Since my occupation is accounting adjacent, it has been helpful to apply my newfound balance sheet knowledge at work.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: Weber State, Utah State and University of Utah
Hometown: Sunset, UT
Accounting Concentration: Tax/FAR

Hobbies
 Creative writing, jiu jitsu, reading, and weight lifting

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
 The MAC program at UNC is among the highest-rated programs in the country, and they offer an online option.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Income statements can be misleading, but I have learned how to determine if any real value has been added to an enterprise. I also love the data analytics and visualization tools taught in the program.

Undergraduate Major: Interdisciplinary Studies
Undergraduate School: University of South Carolina Upstate
Hometown: Rutherfordton, NC

Hobbies
Tennis

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
 A career change for better opportunities

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Time management: learning how to complete multiple tasks while being attentive to other obligations.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: Ashford University
Hometown: Hillsborough, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

Hobbies
 Fishing and spending time with family.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Keyboard shortcuts to Excel have saved me time in my daily work in accounting for UNC Health.

Undergraduate Major: Business Analytics
Undergraduate School: University of Notre Dame
Hometown: Kingsport, TN
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Hiking, climbing, and volunteering.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I love the area, thought the program was really strong, and met some great student ambassadors last year.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
So far, the most interesting thing I’ve learned this year is the scope of accounting and how it truly relates to all parts of operations, especially when designing controls.

Undergraduate Major: Psychology
Undergraduate School: Davidson College
Hometown: Vienna, VA
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Baking, spin classes, listening to podcasts, and hanging out with friends.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I appreciated UNC’s focus on non-accounting majors and felt that I could start this program off strongly despite my lack of any business background. Additionally, the class size was perfect for me and I strongly valued the structured recruiting resources.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
So far, I’ve learned a lot about many topics other than simply accounting, such as presentation skills, ways to communicate with a team, and how to build effective spreadsheets. The MAC program has already taught me valuable skills that I know I will carry into the workforce.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Busan, South Korea
Accounting Concentrations: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Watching and playing soccer, and lifting at the gym.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Structured recruiting and the awesome faculty.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
So far, communication skills in professional settings are the most interesting. I struggle with public speaking, but after the professional communication class, I feel more confident in my ability to speak in front of others.

Undergraduate Major: Business and Sports Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Beijing, China
Accounting Concentrations: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Working out, playing basketball and tennis, horseback riding, running, singing, playing guitar and saxophone, and baking.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I’m a double Tar Heel! MAC gave me an unparalleled sense of belonging – the people there made it truly special.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
During my time as an NBA sideline reporter, I developed the ability to engage in natural and genuine conversations with people, learning how to ask insightful questions and follow the flow of conversation. I continued to build on these skills while working at PwC over the summer, where I had plenty of opportunities to engage in coffee chats.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: University of Georgia
Hometown: Roswell, GA
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Hiking, rock climbing, and cooking

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The outstanding reputation of the program, the structured recruiting process was very appealing to me, and the open house made me feel like the professors really knew what they were teaching.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I left an accounting role for this program – the excel coursework from MAC 707 covered multiple topics that I encountered daily in my last role. The SAGE 50 project in MAC 716 is also a really great learning opportunity, as I have used SAP and Quickbooks before, it provides a good idea of what those systems look like and can be easily transferred to whatever role you end up in.

Undergraduate Major: Accounting
Undergraduate School: The University of Alabama
Hometown: Boston, MA
Accounting Concentrations: Audit and FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Beach volleyball, working on my car, pursuing my private pilot’s license, and reading autobiographies.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The opportunity to dually concentrate, as I am still discovering what service line I want to pursue full time. The flexibility, exposure, and quarter setup at UNC allows me to explore as much as I can in a fruitful way.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Properly asking questions has been an instrumental lesson in my recent life. I have learned from internships, professor office hours, and being an accounting student in general that not only posing the right questions, but asking them at the right time is critical to success. Learning how to maintain professional networks has been another lesson I have learned recently. I am always happy to shake hands, branch out, and make my best attempt at elevator pitches and small talk, but maintaining new connections is something I have recently learned is just as important as gaining them in the first place. I have also recently learned how to pitch causes I am vested in. I served as an admissions ambassador for UA and a Culverhouse College of Business Ambassador at UA, and I learned how to talk to parents and interested parties and market my school.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: University of Ghana, Legon
Hometown: Somanya, Ghana
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Playing volleyball, ping-pong, snooker and reading detective novels.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The prestige asociated with the program and the guarantee it affords for permanent industry-related job offers after graduation.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Best practices in my Professional Communication class. I found the knowledge interesting because of how much I believe it will impact my communication style and interpersonal skills in general.

Undergraduate Major: Japanese
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Summerfield, NC

What are some of your hobbies?
On a day off, I enjoy playing mahjong, knitting, and watching documentaries. I also love getting time to spend with my loved ones and my cat.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program for two key reasons: first, as a proud double Tar Heel, I’ve always felt a strong connection to UNC (Go Heels!). Second, the MAC program stands out for its exceptional resources, dedicated faculty and staff, and impressive CPA pass rate.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
In my professional communications course, I worked on a project that involved developing a solution for an accounting firm. This gave me the opportunity to conduct in-depth research on the history of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act and explore accounting regulations across various countries.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: Elon University
Hometown: Thornwood, NY

What are some of your hobbies?
Golf, and watching/playing sports.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The structured recruiting process,  and that there is an on-campus option.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Group work is more important than you might have previously thought to prepare for a future career.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: University of Georgia
Hometown: Watkinsville, GA
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Basketball, golf, and fishing

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program to build on my finance degree and gain specialized expertise in accounting. While my finance background gave me a solid foundation in business and analysis, I wanted to deepen my understanding of financial reporting, auditing, and tax. The MAC program complements my finance knowledge and opens doors to broader career paths in public accounting and corporate finance. UNC’s strong reputation and career placement made it the clear next step.

Undergraduate Major: Strategic Communications
Undergraduate School: Hampton University
Hometown: Charlotte, NC

What are some of your hobbies?
Creative writing, sports, and photography (preferably film).

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program because I wanted to be challenged in an environment that prioritizes both technical excellence and leadership development. Coming from a background in storytelling and communication, I was drawn to how the program emphasizes collaboration, ethics, and real-world application. UNC also has an incredible network, and being surrounded by peers and faculty who are deeply invested in my success made it the right next step for me as I pivot into accounting with a purpose.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Even though I’m still early in the program, a few things have already stood out to me. I’ve enjoyed learning how the accounting cycle works from start to finish because it’s given me a stronger understanding of how financial information is developed and used. I’ve also found it interesting how much judgment and decision-making are involved in accounting. It’s not just about numbers but about thinking critically, understanding context, and applying principles in real-world situations. That mindset has already helped me approach problems differently in group projects and case discussions.

Undergraduate Major: Business Management and Organizational Studies
Undergraduate School: The University of Western Ontario
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA and Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Accounting Concentration: Tax and Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Spending time with family, card games, sports, boating, and traveling.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The UNC Master of Accounting stood out to me due to its highly ranked reputation, frequently ranked #1 or top 10 on national rankings. In addition, the program structure, completing the program in 13 months as opposed to 2 years, also played a role in my decision along with the course offerings. I was particularly drawn towards the class structure that would help prepare me for the CPA exam as well as the elective offerings such as negotiations. What I didn’t know when applying is the community that you build within this program, not all schools are like this, and it allows for an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Undergraduate Major: Business Analytics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Wilmington
Hometown: Barcelona, Spain and Chapel Hill, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, working out, watching movies, cooking, and playing tennis/pickleball.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program because I believe that it is a great way to start your career in accounting due to the impressive faculty, networking, and diverse class.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
My favorite class has been Professional Communication for Accountants so far, because I have learned how having effective communication is key in having proper conversations and showcase your message in the most effective way.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: UNC-Charlotte
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Tennis, pickleball, traveling, and basketball.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC Program because of its strong career placement and networking opportunities. I knew it would challenge me academically while helping me grow both personally and professionally. I also love the Chapel Hill area, and UNC was my dream school growing up.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
The MAC program has really helped me strengthen my time management and organizational skills. I’ve also found my Professional Communication class to be especially helpful and interesting as it taught me how to communicate more clearly and confidently.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration and Accounting
Undergraduate School: UNC-Wilmington
Hometown: Graham, NC
Accounting Concentration: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Spending time outside, thrifting, and trying new restaurants.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The personal connection I made during my interview! Having diversity of thought is important in a classroom setting to foster critical thinking and I found that at UNC.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
So far, I have really been enjoying learning how gen AI is changing the business world and its implication on financial accounting.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: Pepperdine
Hometown: Enshi, China

What are some of your hobbies?
Photography, painting, and watching movies

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Great reputation, strong employment outcomes, and a personal connection to the University and program.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
We recently learned about internal controls within an organization, and it’s interesting for me to reflect on my previous work experiences and the strength and weaknesses of their internal control.

Undergraduate Major: English and Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Apex, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Soccer, reading, playing piano, and spending time with family/friends.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The extensive network and recruiting opportunities of the program.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I’ve enjoyed learning about the intricacies of business operations and how most of them are very interconnected.

Undergraduate Major: Management and Society
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Southport, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Going to the beach, trying new restaurants, and long walks around campus.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program because of its reputation, supportive faculty, and the connections I built through the MAC Mentorship Program, MAC 777, and my experience as a TA. These opportunities gave me early exposure to the MAC community, and I knew I wanted to continue growing here, both technically and professionally, as I prepare for the CPA exam and launch my accounting career.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned at UNC is to get comfortable being uncomfortable. That mindset has helped me grow both personally and professionally, whether leading financial operations, presenting in class, or navigating new challenges. I’ve also enjoyed seeing how concepts from the classroom apply in real time through internships and team-based projects.

Undergraduate Major: Economics and Business Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Cherryville, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
I play all types of sports, go to the gym, spend time outdoors, stay close to my family and friends, and I also love to play board games.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The amazing culture, prestige, and people that Kenan-Flagler has offered me for the past two years! As an undergraduate business student, I have never felt more welcomed in a place than I did throughout my time in Kenan-Flagler. The amazing staff and students create an amazing culture that I wanted to continue to be a part of.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
One thing I have learned in the classroom throughout my college experience is the importance of finding a good group of people to go through the class with. Finding classmates to study with has always been an integral part of my success as an undergraduate student and I am happy to say that Kenan-Flagler does a great job of helping students grow close to one another.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Biscoe, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Puzzles, walks/hikes, and crocheting.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose UNC because of its reputation, how it is open to non-accounting majors with no prerequisites, and the community.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
One thing that I’ve found interesting is the support that I have access to and have received. All of the staff have been super helpful and kind. What I’ve learned recently is in class is that I have a lot of verbal clutter, and I can work on this to improve my communication skills, when assisting people at games.

Undergraduate Major: Anthropology
Undergraduate School: N.C. State University
Hometown: Conover, NC

What are some of your hobbies?
Art (painting/garment construction), and playing the flute.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The amount of support given to students, both financially, academically, and career wise, as well as all of the great things previous students had said about the program during open house.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Even after just completing this first block of classes,  the Excel skills we learned have been helpful in everyday business and office operations, and the knowledge of the accounting cycle has been super helpful in better understanding how the financial side of the business operates.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Golf, sports, and watching movies.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I had enjoyed accounting for the brief time I explored it during undergrad, and the success of the UNC MAC program cannot be denied. Especially after spending 4 years here, it seemed like the perfect program.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I’ve loved learning about Excel during the first 5 weeks. That class is going to be so practical in the work force! Also I loved learning about journal entries in ASE, Tanja is so awesome!

Undergraduate Major: Political Science and Business Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Running, pickleball, and traveling.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Seeking a career pivot, I chose the UNC MAC program because of its structured recruitment program and rigorous curriculum that went beyond purely tax or audit accounting classes (e.g. data analytics, etc.).

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
The Excel class is by and far the most directly applicable class thus far. Being able to operate in Excel to the degree Travis teaches at is something that will impress future employers (speaking from previous experience when I worked before the program).

Undergraduate Major: Psychology and Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Playing piano, reading books, and volunteering.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I chose the MAC program at UNC because I wanted to continue my education in an environment I trust and value. As an undergraduate at UNC, I experienced firsthand the academic excellence, strong community, and supportive culture that make Kenan-Flagler a top institution. Continuing here felt like a natural next step. What truly set the MAC program apart for me was the structured recruiting. The curriculum is not only rigorous and practical but also designed with clear career outcomes in mind. Additionally, the Kenan-Flagler alumni network is expansive. The connections I’ve made, along with the mentorship and guidance from past graduates, have made a meaningful impact on both my personal and professional development. I knew the MAC program would give me the tools, resources, and network to launch a successful career in accounting.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Without a doubt, the Excel class, MAC 707, is one of the most useful and practical classes I’ve ever taken. What made it stand out was how I was able to apply the knowledge I learned from the class everywhere I go. Whether it’s analyzing data, organizing information, or solving everyday problems, I find myself using those skills all the time, not just in business settings.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: Penn State University
Hometown: Clarion, PA

What are some of your hobbies?
I follow 8 different sports, I have my own sports business podcast, I love to play videogames, and I enjoy going to the gym.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
One reason for choosing the MAC program was the structured recruiting program. Another reason was after completing some research, the faculty for this program was a major selling point given their extensive knowledge and years of experience in the accounting field. Also, after reading about the different coursework that we would be completing in the program, it really drew me in and boosted my interest in the program.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, hope you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
Having almost completed MAC 707, I have learnt just how important having good skills in Excel are for the real world. All of our assignments have exposed me to concepts that make using Excel much better as I continued to learn different functions and how to make my workbooks look much better. In addition to this, after completing MAC 775, I have learnt about how I can make myslef a much better and more confident speaker. I am much more confident when speaking to a larger audience and presenting important information to them.

Undergraduate Major: Statistics and Analytics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Burlington, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Music, video games, leather craft, and watching movies and TV shows.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I wanted to pivot into accounting and eventually pursue a CPA, and thought it was the perfect program for me.

Tell us some things you’ve learned in the classroom that you’ve found especially interesting, or, if you’re working, how you’ve been able to apply what you’ve learned to your job.
I’ve found the Excel course with Travis Day a very practical course that I believe I will use in the accounting field. I have used Excel to some extent in my previous job, but I learned more techniques in his class.