Accounting Student Christopher Cerda Named a 2014 Financial Executives Scholar Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Meet Christopher Cerda
Major: Accounting
Expected Graduation: May 2015
Hometown: Munhall, Pa.
High School: Steel Valley High School
College Activities: Vice president of the Student Accounting Association
Hobbies/Interests: Hockey, baseball and video games
Based on his high academic achievement, involvement with the Student Accounting Association and aspirations to work in accounting and finance, Cerda was selected to receive the Kuldeep Shastri Memorial Scholarship from the Pittsburgh Chapter of Financial Executives International. Cerda has completed accounting internships with C.P.A. firm Maher Duessel and Exico, Inc.
What was your reaction to becoming an FEI Scholarship award recipient?
I was honored that Professor Cheryl Clark nominated me for the award and I was humbled when I was informed I won. Attending the FEI chapter meeting was a tremendous networking opportunity that will benefit me in the future.
Why did you decide to major in accounting?
In high school, I was always interested in math and crunching numbers. I originally wanted to be a math teacher but decided to study accounting because of the tremendous career opportunities available within a variety of different industries.
What factors made you choose Point Park and its accounting program?
Coming out of high school I didn't really know anything about accounting. I attended another university for a semester, but decided to move back home and commute to Point Park with my twin brother, Mike. I took a couple of classes in criminal justice and SAEM before taking Introductory Accounting I with Professor Ed Scott. After talking with Professor Scott throughout the semester, I decided to declare accounting as my major. The professors here are great because they have so much real-world experience and are able to relate everything in the textbooks back to situations that they've dealt with in the field.
What has been your favorite campus experience so far?
I've really enjoyed attending the Student Accounting Association meetings. The guest speakers are always a great way to hear interesting career paths within the field of accounting.
What are your career goals?
Upon graduation I plan to sit for the certified public accounting exam and get a position with an accounting firm in the Pittsburgh area. Down the road, I would like to come back to Point Park and get my M.B.A. degree and eventually become a professor.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I'd like to thank Professor Clark again for nominating me.
More About: accounting, Student Accounting Association