MATC accounting student Andar Muhammad attended the AAA Foundation Two-Year Bridge Symposium in Chicago-an event designed to connect community college students with Big 4 professionals and highlight transfer, internship, and career pathways in accounting.
Biggest Takeaway
Andar said the symposium showed him how broad and exciting the accounting field truly is. “Accountants are in every industry-from small businesses to international celebrities,” he said, noting the experience broke the stereotype of accounting being dull or narrow.
Two personal interactions made the biggest impact:
-
PwC Partner Brian Crane shared how he started at a community college and how the CPA license opened doors-including global travel and even negotiating deals for Beyoncé.
-
During speed networking, PwC’s Michael Fablio encouraged Andar after hearing he’d returned to school in his 40s with a family. Fablio shared a similar path and offered advice about the Enrolled Agent certification and pursuing the CPA-support that helped ease Andar’s worries.
Connections Made
Andar connected with his table group-students and a PwC professional-and is excited to follow their careers on LinkedIn.
Career Impact
He left the symposium with clear guidance: start early on CPA prep, get involved in accounting organizations, explore internships ahead of time, and use resources like Gleim or Becker. Learning that 75% of CPAs are nearing retirement reinforced that now is a great time to enter the field.
Advice for Future Attendees
“Take notes, ask questions, and make connections.”
What To Apply Next
Andar plans to join an accounting organization, begin early CPA preparation, and start mapping out internships and transfer options.
Thank you Andar for sharing your story!
.PNG)
