Master of Science in Accountancy

I'm interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador because I want to help students choosing the best Graduate School for them by sharing my personal experience and giving them advice on the process. I'm the first person in my family to go to Grad School, so I wasn't sure how the process worked and the ambassadors helped answer all my questions. I want to give back what I was given that tremendously helped make my decision. I had an absolutely amazing experience with the admissions team and I would love to aid in the process for the incoming students!

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I choose to purse the MSA at Wake Forest because of the prestigious reputation with CPA pass rate and highly experienced professors. I ultimately made my decision after attending Accounting for the Future, where I saw campus for the first time and had such a welcoming interaction with the entire staff. Hearing about the MSA program and how the university is at the forefront of the ever changing accounting world made me confident on the growth and knowledge I would gain at Wake Forest.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

The most impactful part of my program experience so far has been the incredible staff in the program. All the professors have immense expertise from their prior work experience in the accounting profession and incorporate very helpful advice in their classes. The open-door policy of their office hours provides ample opportunity to ask questions. The administrative staff are very supportive and provide several resources to aid our experience in the program.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

My favorite spot in Winston Salem is Reynolda Village because it has cute boutiques and great restaurants. The close proximity to campus makes it the perfect place to relax, especially with the pretty garden grounds.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

Some ideas I have include connecting prospective students with an ambassador to help assist the student throughout the whole application process. The ambassador would reach out and provide support from the beginning, ensuring to check in on where the student stands. Doing day in the life videos on Instagram would be a great outreach. Campus tours and a meet and greet with professors. Having zoom info sessions for students that can't travel.

Christopher Dickerson

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City: El Paso, TX

Undergraduate School: UNC Greensboro

Major/Minor: Accounting

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

There were countless students who helps guide my decision to apply to Wake Forest, as well as which track would best align with my future career goals. I think it is important to pay it forward to future Biz Deacs and share what I love about Wake and the MSA program with them!

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

There are few programs that have the level of sustained success that Wake Forest has in helping MSA student both pass the CPA exam and build impactful professional networks for post-graduate success. This made the decision to attend Wake Forest an easy one.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

I have been energized by the openness of the cohort to learn about each other; it has been fun meeting everyone from different college, countries, and backgrounds and experiencing this program together. I truly haven't met anyone who hasn't been awesome to talk to and learn from.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

WakerSpace has been my little escape on campus when I am not on one of the many levels of Farrell Hall. I host a podcast, and the space allows students to record to free and that has been helpful in keeping my creative outlet on my student budget. They have so many other workshops and ways for students to learn skills that might be a but unexpected like woodworking and 3D printing.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

I loved the campus tour I had during my visit and thought the class visit was another great way to get an early feel for the program and the professors. I like the idea of virtual coffee chats or fireside chats with current and former students and different subjects like balancing the CPA and course work, how to be involved on campus and not burnout, and general tips on being success in a place as high performing like Wake Forest. I feel students just want to hear more from people like them about what it really feels like every day to be a Wake Forest student.

Emile Dogbe-Gakpetor

Email

City: Accra, Ghana

Undergraduate School: Livingstone college

Major/Minor: Business administration

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I want to be a graduate student ambassador because it gives me the opportunity to represent my program, share my experiences, and support prospective and current students in their academic journey. I enjoy building connections, answering questions, and helping others feel confident about their decision to pursue graduate education.

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because of its strong national reputation, rigorous curriculum, and outstanding track record of preparing students for careers in accounting and tax. The program’s dedicated faculty, emphasis on both technical and analytical skills, and strong alumni network provide the ideal environment to grow academically and professionally. The high CPA pass rate is another reason why.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

The most impactful part of my program has been building my network and relations with my peers.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the sutton gym because it helps me decompress after a long and hectic day.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

We can host Q&A sessions, virtual chats, or campus tours where students feel comfortable asking candid questions can also be impactful. Additionally, highlighting the unique resources, supportive faculty, and career opportunities that the program offers through both formal presentations and informal conversations.

Jeremiah George

Email

City: Raleigh, NC

Undergraduate School: NC State University

Major/Minor: BSBA Finance

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

When I was going through the interview process to begin at Wake Forest University, I was able to meet with Alyssa Dendle representing the MSA program. She was very helpful providing insights into the program and recommendations towards my career. I left with a good impression of the school and the students there. I would like to carry the torch and be a similar figure for upcoming students looking to Wake Forest University as a possible school of interest and help others think through their professional options. I hope to bring some of my experiences working across industries in the public and private sector and undergraduate program at NC State to provide a diverse perspective to prospective students of the advantages and opportunities there are, coming to Wake Forest University.

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I chose the MSA because I wanted to turn vision into action. Many founders are idea-people, and struggle to connect their vision back to the numbers for profitability and scalability. I wanted to build upon my financial background and deepen professional networks and credibility throughout the east coast, and Wake Forest University provided a platform where I felt more like an individual with a lower staff-student and alumni-student ratio, thus providing an education with a more personal-touch.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

The academic curriculum has been delightfully challenging, mixing both finance and accounting, being in the Financial Markets and Transactions track. I've had the opportunity to build relationships with students and professors and explore different ideas in business and technology. Being able to also go to the Meet the Firms event and soon the Career Fair allowed me to tap into the recruiting pipeline Wake has spent years building. Overall, the MSA program is an accelerator and launchpad for my career and I strongly believe I am making progress towards my goals through it.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

"I find walking throughout the campus overall a great experience. The aesthetic of architecture and beautiful landscaping is always inspiring and seeing all the students active and participating in intermural or other campus social activities brings it to life. I've enjoyed studying at ZSR library and stepping into other halls and colleges to get work done. There's always a place on campus to study and there are always people willing to chat or help if you need it. Off of campus, the Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium is truly an experience for gameday when everyone comes out from different programs to cheer on the Demon Deacs football team. I also enjoyed watching baseball at the Truist Stadium with the program as well. There is also Burke Street and 4th Street for socializing after-school, with friends and locals. Overall, however, I enjoy campus over the off-campus events because of the aesthetic. Farrell Hall is my primary place of study, with ZSR library as my second-choice."

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

"I believe that the best relationships are formed over time; they need to be cultivated through consistent follow-up and active listening so each engagement that is had with the prospective student is tailored to their goals and needs. As campus ambassadors, it is our responsibility to represent the school well and accurately so that prospective students can make the best informed choice so both the school and student benefits mutually. I would engage with students through LinkedIn and phone outreach primarily, keeping a professional tone and maintaining approachability. I'd help the student in the engagement by making faculty recommendations for specific questions, drafting plans best set them on track for success in the program, sharing personal insights of recruiting timelines and recommendations for success professionally and academically. "

Daniel Green

Email

City: Cary, NC

Undergraduate School: Liberty University

Major/Minor: Finance, Economics

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

Because of love serving others and meeting others

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

Because of the reputation and my love for accounting

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

The professors and the care they have for us

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

The gardens here at Wake, because they are gorgeous

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

Lunch, Face time, Sports, Etc.

Iyanna Jackson

Email

City: Kingston

Undergraduate School: University of The District of Columbia

Major/Minor: Accounting and Finance

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I am interested in becoming a Graduate Ambassador because, as a first-generation student, I understand how important guidance and support are. First-gens often have to figure things out on their own with little direction. I want to help prospective students, whether first-gen or not, navigate their graduate school experience, discover resources and opportunities, and make the most of them. I also love connecting with people and sharing my experiences and insights to support others.

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I chose to pursue MSA at Wake Forest because of my accounting background from undergraduate, I wanted to deepen my expertise in audit and prepare for the CPA exam and what better school than Wake Forest, which has the #1 CPA pass rate. I like that the program is highly career-focused, with the majority of students graduating with job offers, which is especially valuable in today’s competitive job market. I’ve also heard inspiring stories from alumni who shared that the MSA program prepared them for their careers, with each class thoughtfully designed around realistic scenarios they now face in the workplace every day. I love that Wake Forest truly sets students up for success.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

" I think the most impactful part of this program experience is learning the importance of being prepared for class. Reviewing materials beforehand and writing down questions helps me actively engage in discussions, clarify concepts in real time, and make the most of each class session. Also the networking opportunities at each event that allows me to connect with students in other programs or other professionals. "

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

My favorite place is the study rooms in Farrell Hall, especially the large room on the second floor. I spend most of my time there because it’s very quiet, the temperature is just right, and it has a whiteboard where I can work out problems and study effectively.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

"""Meet & Greet Campus visit tabling"" at recruiting schools or at ambassadors alma mater. Have us ambassadors speak about our experience, the program and the WF community. ""Informational sessions"". Have a virtual panel with ambassadors (advertise on social media , LinkedIn, instagram, etc) . ""Instagram takeover day in the life"" this would give prospective students a real, personal look at the program and student experience. “Digital ads on airport screens” Showcase Wake Forest’s MSA program highlights, CPA success rates, and career opportunities. ""Inclusion weekend"" this is what influenced my decision to attend WF, so I believe that program should continue. ""Have visual campus tours or In-person"" envision themselves as part of the campus community. Look into recruiting at some other schools that may not be on WF recruiting list. "

Jodi Katti

Email

City: Chicago, IL

Undergraduate School: Saint Louis University

Major/Minor: Major: Psychology, Minors: Accounting and Criminology/Criminal Justice

What made you want to become a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I was interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador because my experience in the MSA program at Wake Forest has been incredibly positive, and I’m excited to share that with prospective students. One of the highlights of being in this program is the supportive community—both academically and personally. The people here, from faculty to fellow students, genuinely care about your success and are there to guide you along the way. When I was first exploring the school and even now, I’ve felt a strong sense of support and encouragement. I want to contribute to this welcoming environment and help others experience the same level of support that has been so valuable to me

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM/MSBA/MSA at Wake Forest?

I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because it felt like the perfect place to jump-start my career in accounting, especially since I'm new to the field. After researching various programs and attending Inclusion Weekend, I realized Wake Forest was exactly what I needed to grow professionally. Originally, I was headed toward a career in psychology or law, but I wanted something more practical and stable before potentially going back to law school. Wake Forest was one of the few programs that embraced my unique background and offered a fantastic network, a great CPA pass rate, and, most importantly, an internship built right into the program. This hands-on experience was something I really wanted since I hadn’t had the chance to work in accounting before. Plus, the program’s in-person format, the scholarship I received, and the opportunity to explore a new state made Wake Forest an even more attractive choice. Overall, it felt like a place where I could truly thrive and find the support I needed to succeed.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?

The most impactful part of my experience in the MSA program has definitely been the people I’ve met—whether it’s the supportive faculty, the helpful staff, or the friends I’ve made along the way. At Wake Forest, I feel like I’m surrounded by a community that genuinely wants to see me succeed and is dedicated to helping me get there. Back in undergrad, where I wasn’t a business major, I didn’t always feel that kind of support or confidence in my potential in accounting. But since joining the MSA program, I’ve been welcomed with open arms and given so much encouragement and guidance. It’s been incredible to feel truly seen and supported by both the staff and faculty, which has really boosted my confidence. I’ve also been lucky to connect with amazing people in my cohort and throughout the business school. The friendships I’ve formed—whether through studying, sharing challenges, or just bonding over our experiences—have been invaluable. It’s a sense of community and connection that I hadn’t experienced before, and it’s what makes my time here so special.

Dingfei Liu

Email

City: Chengdu, Sichuan

Undergraduate School: University of California Riverside

Major/Minor: Accounting

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

Because I want to help other international students about their application

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I never went to a private school and I knew WFU has very good MSA program. At the same time, when I applied I scheduled a meeting with admissions and they are very nice. I like the culture here

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

Meet the firm and many workshops

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

Pingpang table outside the Farrell hall

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

Let them listen to the class and see the resources we have for them to find a job

Diego Medina

Email

City: San Diego, CA

Undergraduate School: San Diego State University

Major/Minor: Finance / Economics

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I want to be of any help to any potential incoming students wanting to further their education. Be a resource to them and answer any questions.

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I wanted to further my education and reinforce my knowledge/network in the business community to help with jobs and opportunities.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

My classmates who I connected with has made the biggest impact so far. I think having a group of people who you can rely on and ask questions always makes the process smoother and enjoyable.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

I recently just visited Reynolda Village with some friends and we went to Dough Joe to get coffee and donuts. The food and atmosphere was great.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

Having conversations with them to ease their nerves or doubts when it comes to making a big change. Prepare them for what is to come and offer advice on how they can be successful.

Torian Powell

Email

City: Portland, Jamaica

Undergraduate School: University of the District of Columbia

Major/Minor: Accounting + Finance

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I’m interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador because I benefited from having one during my own admissions process. Their guidance was invaluable, and I’d like to give back by supporting prospective students in the same way

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I decided to pursue my MSA at Wake Forest because of its strong reputation for academic excellence, the personalized attention from faculty, and the emphasis on practical, career-focused learning. I was also drawn to the collaborative culture and supportive community, which I believe will prepare me not only with technical skills but also with the leadership and professional development needed to excel in my career.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

The most impactful part of my program experience so far has been the supportive community; both classmates and faculty who challenge me academically while also encouraging collaboration and personal growth. I was very nervous about pursuing my graduate studies but that nervousness faded once I got a chance to be personal with everyone.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

One of my favorite spots in Winston is the Allegory stadium because I enjoy the competitiveness of sports. I am confident that I will also enjoy the basketball games when the season begins.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

I’d engage with prospective students by sharing my experiences through tours, Q&A sessions, and one-on-one conversations, making sure to answer all their questions and create a welcoming, supportive space.

Lillian Radcliffe

Email

City: New York, NC

Undergraduate School: University at Albany

Major/Minor: Accounting, Creative Writing

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

To show others that even if moving across the country is scary, the opportunities here are worth it and everyone is accommodating

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

To acquire my 150 credits for the CPA and to expand my network

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

Working with professors in smaller settings and feeling as if they truly care for your success

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

I enjoy the library's coffee shop, it's quite peaceful and lets me refocus.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

I want to share my story about coming here from New York, into a total new environment and part of my country, and how Wake Forest has made that as easy at they could.

Gwyneth Stewart

Email

City: Lincolnton, NC

Undergraduate School: Furman University

Major/Minor: Double major in Accounting & Politics and International Affairs

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I am interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador because of the experience I had with previous ambassadors during my admissions process. I so enjoyed getting to hear from students who were in the program and could answer all my questions that I may have not been totally comfortable asking another member of the admissions team. It is so welcoming to have lunch and be led around by current students. I feel that the ambassador program truly makes a great impact on students decision to come to the program and I want to be part of it!

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I chose to pursue my MSA at Wake Forest because of the amazing reputation that the program has for producing successful professionals. The Wake Forest staff is also notorious for their commitment to their students wellbeing.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

I have felt welcome from the moment I stepped into Farrell. On the first day of orientation, I walked in to be greeted by Alex Peoples, who I had met at Furman during a recruiting event. It was so nice to see a familiar face! I also had the great opportunity to meet with the tax professors in the Spring. This allowed me to be familiar with the staff prior to starting the program. These experiences helped me settle in at Wake so fast even though I was in a completely new place!

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

I have loved spending time in the Innovation Quarter! The area is so cool and is a great spot to hang out with friends or family. There are so many great options for food and drink.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

I think reaching out to prospective students as soon as they begin the admissions process is a great way to answer their questions and help them learn more. Also, having the students meet one another when they come for a campus visit when possible might be a good idea. I know that I enjoyed meeting and having lunch with the other prospective student when I had my campus visit. Social media is also an important tool for connecting with prospective students!

Christian Stover

Email

City: Mt. Juliet, TN

Undergraduate School: Brigham Young University

Major/Minor: Accounting

Why are you interested in becoming a Graduate Admissions Ambassador?

I want to create the best opportunity for individuals who are interested in my program to learn all they can so they can make the best decision for themselves for graduate education.

Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?

I chose to pursue the MSA because of the reputation that the program has for excellent students and faculty as well as a high CPA pass rate.

What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?

Attending meet the firms allowed me to meet more local accounting firms within the Southeast region who I was not able to connect with coming from a school out West.

What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the Wellbeing Center because of the quality of athletic equipment allowing me to stay healthy and decompress after studying.

Please share any ideas you may have about how to engage with prospective students:

Allocate ambassadors a small fund to send Wake Forest sponsored gifts to students with which they have connected with in order to keep a strong connection. John White sent me a gift after we had our MSA interview and it made me feel welcome at Wake Forest even though I hadn't bee been to campus yet.

MSA Events

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Dec

05

@7:30 PM

Sounds of Joy: A Wake Forest Holiday Gala

CANCELLED DUE TO UNIVERSITY CLOSURE Celebrate the season with the third annual Sounds of Joy holiday concert, featuring the Wake Forest Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble! Enjoy an uplifting evening of festive music and beloved classics, performed with spirit and style to welcome the joys of winter.

Dec

07

@7:00 PM

Annual Lovefeast

The Annual Lovefeast is one of Wake Forest's most cherished traditions. Join us this year at 7 p.m. on December 7 in Wait Chapel. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the prelude begins at 6:20 p.m. We hope you will join us as the radiance of this night becomes the light within the darkness of the world. This event is first come, first seated. Viewers may also watch a livestream of the service at lovefeast.wfu.edu.

Dec

16

@6:00 PM

Virtual GRE Test Prep

It's always a good time to start preparing for the GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you'll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here:

Jan

13

@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GMAT Test Prep

It's always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you'll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Feb

10

@6:00 PM

Virtual GMAT & GRE Test Prep

It's always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT or GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you'll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT/GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT/GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

Mar

12

@6:00 PM

Free Virtual GRE Test Prep

It's always a good time to start preparing for the GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you'll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.

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