CHICAGO, Sept. 4, 2020 – The Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS) recently hosted more than 270 accounting students from colleges and universities across the state at its Jumpstart to Accounting program. The annual event—held virtually this year—provides students with exclusive access to thought leaders, motivational speakers, recruiters, and coaches to arm them with the advice and connections needed to launch successful accounting and finance careers.

“Given the challenges students are facing due to COVID-19, it’s especially exciting to see so many accounting students turn out to take advantage of this great opportunity to prepare themselves for bright futures in the accounting and finance profession,” says Illinois CPA Society President and CEO Todd Shapiro. “We strategically bring together a diverse group of experts to offer these students valuable takeaways that will help them succeed in both their academic and professional careers—and position them to become future CPAs.”

During the two-hour program, participants heard from and interacted with inspiring professionals from Accountemps, Becker, Caterpillar, Gleim, Roger CPA, Salesforce, and Wipfli, who covered the ins and outs of networking, standing out in in-person and virtual interviews, showcasing your authentic self, earning internships, resume writing, and ultimately earning the CPA credential.

Details about next year’s Jumpstart to Accounting program will be released in February.