Student Spotlight: Grace Mast
Grace Mast, a recent graduate of Kent State University’s Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program, is a driven and passionate professional who exemplifies the value of lifelong learning and academic excellence. With a clear goal of earning her CPA license, Grace strategically pursued a combined BBA/MSA pathway, allowing her to transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, and onto her dream of becoming a CPA.
Learn more about Grace and her time spent in Kent State’s MSA program!
What made you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I chose to pursue a graduate degree to advance my career potential and meet my future goals. By obtaining a master’s degree, I accumulated enough credit hours to be on track to earn my CPA license, which has always been a goal of mine. I have a strong passion for continuing to learn and grow as a person. I knew that this program would be a good fit for me, and it will create greater opportunities for career advancement.
What inspired you to choose Kent State University for continuing your education?
I chose Kent State for my continuing education because it was an effortless transition from my undergraduate to graduate schooling. I was able to do the combined BBA/MSA program, which allowed me to get course requirements in both these areas and gave me a jumpstart in the MSA program. There was also a wide variety of courses to choose from that helped to prepare me for the CPA exam and my future career.
How has this program provided flexibility in your schedule?
This program provided me with flexibility in my schedule since the MSA is fully online. I was able to be a full-time student while maintaining part-time employment and studying for the CPA exam. All of my classes were completed on my own time, which allowed me to work around my schedule. I was able to complete the MSA program within one year while balancing my personal obligations.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement while studying at Kent State?
A memorable experience I will always cherish from my time at Kent State is working for the Accounting Department as a tutor and teaching assistant. I enjoyed working one-on-one with students and empowering them to reach their full potential. Being involved and seeing students grow in their confidence with difficult accounting concepts was incredibly rewarding. This experience also helped me grow as a professional and reach academic achievements.
How has Kent State supported your academic and personal growth?
As a student at Kent State, I constantly felt supported both academically and in my personal growth, and the excellent accounting faculty played a huge role in my academic success. I had the privilege of working as a teaching assistant during my schooling for Professor Zhang (Intermediate Accounting I) and Professor Ballestero (Principles of Auditing). I am so grateful for their support throughout my academic journey, along with that of my colleagues, who have all truly given me a sense of community.
How do you see this program impacting your future career and earning potential?
I can see the MSA program having a significant impact on my earning potential. With my master’s degree, I was able to have the credit requirements needed to obtain my CPA license, which comes with greater earning incentives. By obtaining an advanced degree early on in my career, I will be able to advance more quickly in my future career, and it will open the door to more opportunities.
Get Your MSA from Kent State University!
The Kent State MSA program is ideal for individuals seeking CPA eligibility through a 150-credit hour pathway, working professionals who require a flexible online format, and both accounting and non-accounting graduates – provided prerequisites are met – who are looking to advance or expand their careers in the accounting field.
Our program is 100% online, ideal for the working professional who wants to balance education and career. Additionally, our school is accredited by AACSB International.
Start Reaching Your Goals at Kent State
We wish Grace all the best as she takes the next steps toward earning her CPA. If you are in need of more credits before you can take the CPA or are simply interested in continuing your learning on the accounting path, consider Kent State as the destination for your educational journey.