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: Communications and Marketing
Undergraduate School: Wake Forest University
Hometown: Bethlehem, PA

What are some of your hobbies?
Being a student-athlete at UNC (Track and Field)

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Taking a new path that would pay off in the future.

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: Political Science
Undergraduate School: College of Charleston
Hometown: St. Petersburg, FL
Accounting Concentrations: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Working out, traveling, and live music

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The reputation of the program/school, the caliber of faculty, and program flexibility

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.
It’s incredible to be able to take what I’m learning in the classes and immediately apply it to the work I do for my clients.

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.
I am currently in my second semester of the online MAC program; while my understanding of accounting is still developing, I have been able to use what I have learned in my new job as an entry level auditor. While currently taking my audit course and working at the same time, I have been able to use the two together to streghten my understanding of the field.

Undergraduate Major: History
Undergraduate School: Virginia Tech
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Accounting Concentrations: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Exercise, skydiving, scuba diving, and reading

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The opportunity to gain accounting knowledge and skills from KFBS’ top-tier faculty, and to join the UNC and KFBS 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.
As I’m currently working in operations finance and strategy for over 750 supercenters, earning $100B in revenue, I appreciate my growing knowledge of financial statements and the impact of various transactions on my business unit’s performance.

Undergraduate Major: Sport Management
Undergraduate School: NC State
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Playing sports, snowboarding, playing video games, hanging out with friends, and New York Times games

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
This program exceeded any other program I looked up. From the alumni connections to the professors having actual experience. Also, having the ability to take the program online and I did not have to have any prior accounting background.

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 use pretty much everything I learned in Professional Communications in my job since my job is communications. I will say, throughout this program, my critical thinking skills have strengthened significantly. I feel like I make better informed decisions at work now.

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: 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: Business Administration and Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Greensboro, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit and FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Traveling, reading, baking, and watching hockey and F1

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose UNC MAC because I know Kenan-Flagler’s reputation through undergrad. The online format gives me the ability to continue working full-time while pursuing my future role. My brother and dad are both accountants so I have realized over time that accounting is a familiar concept to me. I hope to pass the CPA exam and eventually work as a forensic accountant.

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 learned that accounting is the foundation of business knowledge. Through my foundational accounting classes, I have become more effective in my current role. I am better able to analyze my company’s processes, controls, and fraud losses while creating my reports.

Undergraduate Major: Finance and Banking
Undergraduate School: Appalachian State University
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Tennis, rock climbing, hiking, backpacking, running, and biking

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
UNC has a great online format that is more in depth than a lot of other online MAC programs.

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 now have a more structural intelligence on the foundations of accounting, which sounds simple but it goes a long way in a job where you handle accounting without formal training.

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: Health Science
Undergraduate School: Stony Brook University
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

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

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I enjoyed how involved the program is. It can be difficult as remote students to feel a part of the campus experience. What gave me a lot of confidence in the program was that there was someone who could answer my questions and/or they were willing to find the answers and follow-up with 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 have learned that time management is absolutely vital to success; as well, I have learned more about how money moves in business and how it plays a major role in decision making.

Undergraduate Major: Social Work
Undergraduate School: Central Michigan University
Hometown: Winchester, VA
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies? Being a mom, needle arts, gardening, being outdoors, and reading.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Program and institutional reputation, and needing specific classes for CPA eligibility.

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 UNC MAC courses offer important case work and skills needed in professional capacities – experiences I did not have earning my MBA at another institution.

Undergraduate Major: History
Undergraduate School: Valdosta State University
Hometown: Alma, GA
Accounting Concentrations: Financial Analysis Reporting

What are some of your hobbies?
Hiking (particularly, the Appalachian Trail), working out, basketball, and leisurely reading

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I chose the UNC MAC program for its reputation, focus beyond technical skills (i.e., leadership), and active learning approach to the online environment.

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 the January term, I took an MBA elective on strategic economics. The class taught me to consider behavioral interactions with firms/individuals (reason backwards from a competitor’s anticipated response). This class, MBA 775, is one of the accounting-plus options to enhance students’ business acumen.

Undergraduate Major: Finance
Undergraduate School: Penn State University
Hometown: Chesapeake, VA
Accounting Concentrations: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Fitness, family, and sewing

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The reputation of Kenan-Flagler Business School and the MAC 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.
The applicability of all my classes on my daily life. I am able to apply accounting concepts, professional communication skills, spreadsheet skills, data analytics skills and programs, to name a few, that helps me in my personal life and understanding. So what we learn in this program not only applies to our professional goals, but also our personal goals.

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: Pre-Pharmacy
Undergraduate School: University of South Carolina
Hometown: Sparta, NC
Accounting Concentration: Financial Analysis and Reporting

Hobbies
Keeping up with my children’s hobbies! Gymnastics and swimming are my hobbies and gardening in the summer.

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
The online program drew me in with the flexible schedule for full time employment. After learning that the online students have the same accessibility to professors as on campus, I felt like this was the program for me with online flexibility, but an on campus feel.

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.
Each week I’m able to apply things I have learned in class. Working in a financial setting with no formal financial background has limited me, but now each week I feel more ease with daily financial reporting tasks and am even able to help analyze financial statements on a limited level after just one financial reporting class.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: Michigan State University
Hometown: Bethesda, MD
Accounting Concentration: Tax/FAR

Hobbies
 Sports, reading, writing, and traveling

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
 The culture and welcoming atmosphere that the administrators and teachers brought.

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.
People think accounting and tax are cut and dried, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Life – and accounting – can be complicated, and this program and what I’ve learned have only bolstered that lesson.

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: Medical Laboratory Science
Undergraduate School: University of Vermont
Hometown: Danielson, VT
Accounting Concentration: FAR

Hobbies
 Yoga, running, and paddleboarding

Why did I choose MAC at UNC?
 I was drawn to the UNC MAC program for the focus on leadership, the connection to the incredible alumni network, and the reputation 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.
In this program, I’ve gained so much knowledge about accounting practices in the U.S. and internationally. The critical thinking, team building, and Excel skills I learned have definitely given me an edge.

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: Sport Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: New Bern, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Dance, rock climbing, and exercise

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Opportunity for jobs and networking, plus the credentials of 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.
Working in marketing prior, I have been able to build on my knowledge of things like return on spending, profit margins, etc. I am looking forward to learning more about income statements and balance sheets.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Asheville, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Formula 1 and EDM music festivals

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Former MAC students talked about how useful the program was to them.

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.
Spreadsheet modeling has been useful, especially after working in Excel for the last year.

Undergraduate Major: Biology
Undergraduate School: Point Loma Nazarene University
Hometown: Dana Point, CA
Accounting Concentrations: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Cooking, crocheting, crossstiching, and watching crime shows

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The program’s willingness to teach students who had no prior background 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.
Since I have no prior business experience everything I’ve been learning is all new and exciting. My favorite so far is all the ways we can use Excel to make calculations easier.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Hiking, fly fishing, traveling, cooking, and art

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I found I had a knack for accounting skills at my prior job and wanted to grow and expand these skills. My end goal is to run my own company and these skills would help me do that.

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.
Accounting is the foundation of all business. If you can understand the accounting side of a business you can understand how the business is operating.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Princeton, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, running, attending concerts, and going to the beach with family

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I loved the Undergraduate Business Program at Kenan-Flagler and wanted to pursue another degree, and I fell in love with accounting and the MAC 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 have found it interesting how much of a collaborative environment accounting is. I had previous assumptions that it was more of an independent space but I am learning in class and in the workforce that collaboration is key.

Undergraduate Major: Sociology
Undergraduate School: Penn State University
Hometown: Beijing, China
Accounting Concentrations: TBD

What are some of your hobbies?
I love trying all kinds of sports, even those I’m not familiar with. I also enjoy exploring new things, such as learning about different cultures from people from various countries. Additionally, I’d love to travel around the world (especially Europe) with friends during my spare time.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?

 I chose the UNC MAC program because of its diverse curriculum and outstanding industry reputation. The program offers comprehensive courses in corporate financial analysis, has a high employment success rate, and boasts a robust alumni network. Through the UNC MAC program, I can achieve my short-term goal of joining a Big 4 accounting firm and lay a solid foundation for my long-term entrepreneurial aspirations.

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 think MAC 718 Finance is the most interesting course I have taken so far. Unlike other MAC courses, MAC 718 not only teaches basic accounting knowledge (such as ratios used to analyze a company’s operations) but also incorporates real-world cases. The professor introduced us to two websites for researching the financial status of publicly traded companies. Even after the program ends, these financial tools will continue to help me perform financial analysis and make more informed decisions.

Undergraduate Major: Biology
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Waxhaw, NC
Accounting Concentrations: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Equestrian, gaming, and cooking

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
People from all backgrounds can apply and they make it easy to adjust to the change.

Undergraduate Major: Exercise Science
Undergraduate School: Appalachian State
Hometown: Holly Springs, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Tennis, golf, and board games

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Excellent program ratings and reviews from others in the program and career outcomes.

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 helpful all of the different financial information and ratios and the information you can gain from leveraging the information available on financial reports.

Undergraduate Major: Financial Engineering
Undergraduate School: Nanjing Audit University
Hometown: Shanghai, China
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Watching movies, cooking and baking

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
It’s one of the top accounting programs in the state with a high employment rate and accepts students with no accounting background.

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 love the learning group since the study atmosphere is really great!

Undergraduate Major: Mathematics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Charlotte
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
Pickleball, needle pointing, and going to the gym

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I really appreciated that there weren’t any prerequisites required before starting the program. It made the decision to go back and get my masters so much easier!

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 having only completed two and half weeks in the program, I feel like I have learned so much! I think the most valuable piece I have learned so far is my leadership personality and how to best work with other types of personalities during OLI. I love that the MAC program not only emphasizes learning about accounting, but also preparing the students for success in the work place with the leadership training course.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: University of Michigan
Hometown: China
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
I love going to the gym, cooking, watching videos, and playing with my cat.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
UNC MAC is for students who did not major in accounting in undergraduate studies, but are interested in accounting and want to pursue a career in accounting in the future. Due to its excellent academic atmosphere and reputation, my undergraduate professors recommended the MAC program to me many times. I hope to restart my accounting journey in the MAC 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.
Most of the professors have working experience in the accounting field. They will impart their insights from their work to us in combination with knowledge. At the same time, the professors will carefully provide help and solve problems for students when they ask questions and seek help. The student management team is very dedicated and will actively take care of students’ lives and organize various rich activities. The students are very enthusiastic and actively discuss with each other about learning.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Going on walks, Pilates (I’m currently working part time at a studio in Chapel Hill), and trying new coffee spots.

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Kenan-Flagler contributed so much to my undergraduate education, from their diverse class options to incredible staff, that I knew that if I pursued additional education I would want to do it at Kenan-Flagler. In undergrad I took an accounting course, as well as many financial classes that peaked my interest in pursuing my MAC. One of my professors was Tanja Snively and she also highly recommended the program! I had an internship last summer in real estate investment accounting and realized that in order to be as impactful of a team player as I could, I should become a CPA.

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 the classroom I have learned how essential judgment is within accounting. Before this program I perceived the field of accounting to be rather objective, every question having a right and wrong answer. While this is true for a lot of cases, it requires much more judgment when establishing rules and management. Its been interesting hearing about biases, and how they extended into our daily lives outside of the classroom.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Pickleball, golf, and watching movies

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The people, the opportunities, and the place!

Undergraduate Major: Business Management
Undergraduate School: George Mason University
Hometown: Fairfax, VA
Accounting Concentration: Tax

What are some of your hobbies?
In my free time I enjoy photography, writing, and exploring! Although I am no professional with photography, I find it enjoyable to go to new places and take photographs of various sceneries. While I explore and take photographs, I end up meeting new people and learning new things as often locals will tell me the history of the location I am exploring and photographing. A few instances of this recently was actually in a UNC merchandise store where a 1980’s UNC alumni told me about the origins of the “Tar Heel” and what stores once inhabited Franklin Street. In my pastime I also do enjoy writing as it is a creative opportunity to express your feelings and reflections!

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Accounting was not a field I had originally seen myself entering when I first joined college. However, after taking a few accounting courses, I realized that I may have some real potential in joining the industry. When taking my accounting courses, I felt there was a decent amount of challenge involved, however when I was able to overcome the challenge I would feel extremely fulfilled. Additionally, I knew that this interest in accounting was sustainable and useful in the real world as there always is a demand for accountants and it can be found in any industry including the government, corporate, academia, etc. However, my newfound interest in accounting was found much later in my undergraduate career, and it would have thrown my undergraduate degree off track by a few years if I took on an accounting concentration. Therefore, I decided doing a graduate program in accounting would not backlog my education and would transfer essential knowledge about accounting that will help me enter the job market with the appropriate accounting skillsets and the professional acumen and standing of a Master’s degree. UNC Chapel Hill was one of the only programs who could accommodate the goals I had in mind, and really works on building your knowledge from the ground up as opposed to other programs which had an expectation that you had to enter the program with an advanced sense of accounting. The MAC program at Chapel Hill makes sure you can be a great accounting professional no matter what background you are from and where your current accounting knowledge is.

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.

Teamwork and leadership have been two big themes I have especially learned about in the classroom these past few weeks. In my undergraduate degree, the accounting courses I had taken were very much individualized and did not require teamwork. However, this program has embedded teamwork in almost every aspect from group projects to orientation week. From these experiences in the MAC program, I realized that I may have been lacking in some areas with teamwork and I have since been working with my team more closely to identify my own pitfalls while also taking proactive steps to acknowledge what overall team dysfunctions exist that we all can work on. Our leadership class actually suggested a book for team building and teamwork which I have bought to see how what I can learn and implement as I move through this program. Similarly, I have learned many things about leadership and my own style of leadership. In the past I had always associated leadership with dominance, extroversion, and high energy which I felt I was able to display in group settings. However, orientation was one of those events that challenged my way of thinking as the MAC program was a large group and there were people who were significantly more dominant, extroverted, and high energy than I was, which made me question my ability to lead. However, through our DISC assessment and leadership class sessions, I have picked up that we all have different styles of leadership which we can still lead with regardless of if we fit the “leader” stereotype or not. It is all about using your strengths and weaknesses accordingly to be perceived as a leader.

Undergraduate Major: Economics and Communication
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Accounting Concentration: TBD

What are some of your hobbies?
Guitar, music production, and visual arts

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Cost of attendance, accelerated pace, and awesome job placement

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.

Excel skills and financial accounting calculations

Undergraduate Major: Kinesiology
Undergraduate School: James Madison University
Hometown: Elizabethtown, KY
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, riding horses, hiking, and working out

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 major thing that I learned during my undergraduate studies from my physiology professor was a quote that he ran his classroom by “competence is confidence” and I have applied that in everything I do. Before I got hired as my brokerage’s marketing manager I had no experience in marketing and I had no confidence I was up for the job. Before I started I did so much research and started gaining knowledge about that field and through experience as well and I gained my confidence. Now I have people coming and asking me about marketing tips and tricks.

Undergraduate Major: Economics and Music
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Accounting Concentration: TBD

What are some of your hobbies?
Music, soccer, and golf

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I wanted to become an accountant and continue my studies in Chapel Hill.

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 and hard skills,  as well as many soft skills such as networking and resume building.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration and Management and Society
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Mooresville, NC
Accounting Concentration: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading books, watching reality TV, and attending UNC sporting events

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I was super interested in the accounting classes I took at Kenan-Flagler and wanted to expand on that knowledge to enter back into the investment banking field. Also, I wanted to make sure I got four full years at UNC which is why I only applied to the UNC MAC 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 found that BUSI 408 was super applicable to what I was doing in my IB internship. I was able to apply my knowledge of finding interest rates and knowing what a DCF was to my job the summer of 2023, which is something I found very interesting.

Undergraduate Major: Economics
Undergraduate School: UNC-Chapel Hill
Hometown: Greensboro
Accounting Concentration: FAR

What are some of your hobbies?
Pickleball, working out, and video games

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I received mentorship from previous MAC students

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 helped me become organized way beyond what I believed to be possible.

Undergraduate Major: Business Administration
Undergraduate School: Kathmandu University
Hometown: Lalitpur, Nepal
Accounting Concentration: TBD

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, traveling, swimming, and going to the movies

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
The excellent program curriculum

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

What are some of your hobbies?
Going to the gym, hiking, and reading

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
Looking for something to develop professionally and make connections that will last for the rest of my life.

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 just started the program, but just learning about everything has posed a unique challenge that forces me to remain disciplined and do my best work.

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

What are some of your hobbies?
Working out, reading, cafe hopping, and listening to podcasts

Why did you choose the MAC Program at UNC?
I loved making connections with the professors here during undergrad and wanted to continue them through grad school. It also helped that some of my closest friends are in the MAC 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 learned the importance of active listening, of listening to understand rather than to respond. Realizing this and implementing it outside of the classroom has led me to improve upon my communication and speaking skills.

Undergraduate Major: Biology
Undergraduate School: NC State
Hometown: Murphy, NC
Accounting Concentration: Audit

What are some of your hobbies?
Golf, pickleball, and disc golf

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 really enjoy journal entries, AJE’s, and RJE’s. Corporate finance is also pretty interesting with all the different ratios and learning the flow of money.