Emily Hall

Why FSU?

I chose Florida State University because its MBA program combines rigorous analytical coursework with strong faculty mentorship and practical leadership opportunities. FSU provides the ideal environment to sharpen my technical capabilities while giving back as a graduate assistant supporting undergraduate professional development.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

After earning my undergraduate degree in accounting, I was inspired to pursue graduate education to bridge an accounting skillset and a leadership mindset.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

As an MBA student, my primary academic focus is advancing toward CPA licensure by pairing graduate coursework with dedicated preparation for the Uniform CPA Examination. Having completed my accounting degree, met the 150-credit-hour requirement, and passed the FAR exam, I am currently preparing to sit for the remaining sections to achieve full certification. Mastering the rigorous regulatory, financial reporting, and auditing standards required of a licensed CPA is vital for delivering high-quality audit work and maintaining public trust in financial markets. This preparation is important because it equips me to enter the public accounting profession with the technical expertise and integrity necessary to uphold transparent, reliable reporting for stakeholders.

Who has been influential in your graduate journey?

My classmates and friends in the MBA program have been the most influential part of my graduate journey. Collaborating through demanding coursework, study sessions, and team projects has created a built-in community where we continuously challenge, support, and learn from one another. Their encouragement and camaraderie make navigating graduate school both rewarding and inspiring every day.

Career aspirations

My primary career goal is to obtain CPA licensure and begin my full-time role as an Audit Associate with KPMG following graduation. Long term, I aspire to advance within public accounting leadership, integrating audit analytics and emerging tools to enhance audit quality, detect financial risks, and strengthen transparency across capital markets. Ultimately, I plan to stay active in professional accounting organizations to advocate for the profession and mentor emerging accountants throughout their early careers.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Be clear on your purpose early and lean on your peers for support through demanding coursework. Developing disciplined time management and welcoming challenges outside your comfort zone will help you get the most out of your graduate experience.

Accomplishments during graduate career

During graduate school, I am most proud of earning a merit-based instructional graduate assistantship, receiving the 2026 FICPA Foundation Scholarship, and passing the Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) section of the CPA Exam. Serving as a Graduate Assistant in Teaching is especially meaningful to me because it allows me to mentor undergraduate students directly, guiding their career readiness and fostering professional confidence. Knowing that my support helps students navigate their next professional steps makes my time at FSU exceptionally rewarding.

Merit-Based Instructional Graduate Assistantship, FICPA Foundation Scholarship, PCAOB Scholarship, Accounting Student of the Year (UNF), FIS Foundation Scholarship

Organizations you are part of at FSU

MBAA (MBA Association)

Hobbies outside academics

Reading fiction, experimenting with new dinner recipes, and hosting gatherings with friends.