Accounting Departmental News
News from the Accounting Department at Penn State
Accounting News
In order to stay informed, students should check this page often for news relating to their major and their courses.
Major's Forum
The Accounting Major's Forum was held on Monday, August 22nd in 110 Business Building. The Forum is required for all Junior Accounting majors, however, if you were unable to attend the slides for the presenters are available below:
- Ralph Licastro, Senior Lecturer in Accounting
- Maureen Desorcie, Assistant Director of International Programs
- Meg Handley, Directory of Career & Corporate Connections
The Accounting Department on Facebook
The Accounting Department is now on Facebook. Check out our page and "Like" us to receive our news feeds and updates. All Department and College-wide events related to Accounting students will be posted on there, so make sure you keep informed.
LinkedIn for Accounting and Business Students
Check out this article by Dr. Dave Albrecht about how all Accounting and business students should have a LinkedIn account.
Major Changes to CPA Exam
Changes to the CPA Exam - ranging from content, time allotted for certain sections, and format, will take place in 2011. There is a strong possibility that the passing score of the exam may also change. In the latest installment of PICPA Conversations, Liz Kolar, CPA, a PICPA member and co-founder of Philadelphia CPA Review, briefly explains these new features, when they will take effect, and where to get more information. If you are a candidate to take the CPA Exam or a student considering a career as a CPA, listen to this podcast.
You can also visit Becker's website for more information.
Tutor List
The Accounting Department compiles a list of students who are interested in tutoring for certain Accounting courses. All appointments and compensation (if the student desires to be paid) must be arranged between the tutor and the hiring student; the Accounting Department does not pay tutors we only compile and distribute the tutor list. Click here to view the lists.
Important Dates
| Fall 2011 |
Semester Dates |
|---|---|
| Classes Start |
August 22 |
| Drop Deadline |
August 31 |
| Add Deadline |
September 1 @ 8 a.m. |
| Intent to Graduate |
August 15 - September 5 |
| Labor Day - No Classes |
September 5 |
| Final Exam Conflict Filing |
September 26 - October 16 |
| Late Drop Deadline |
November 11 |
| Thanksgiving Holiday - No Classes |
November 20 - 26 |
| Classes End |
December 9 |
| Final Exam Week |
December 12 - 16 |
| Commencement |
December 17 |
Smeal Internship Program
The Smeal Internship Program has many internship opportunities for Accounting Majors. Students should visit their website to learn more. Seniors must be able to participate in one full semester of classes AFTER the internship and PRIOR to graduation. The Smeal Internship Program is located in 114 Business (814-863-6161 or intern@smeal.psu.edu).
Publications
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) is strongly recommended for the preparation for interviews and to keep aware of the current business news. All accounting faculty refer to WSJ articles as part of their course work. Student subscriptions at 70% off are available for 15 weeks ($34.95), 26 weeks ($59.95), or 52 weeks ($119.00). Students are billed directly. Some students may receive The Wall Street Journal as a package with their course textbooks. Students subscriptions include the print edition of The Wall Street Journal, in an easier-to-use format designed for today’s readers’ needs, plus access to the Online Journal at WSJ.com. If students prefer, they can have the paper version sent to someone else (parents, friends, etc.).
The New Accountant Magazine is a professional publication for accounting students and the accounting profession. Each issue includes practical information in feature articles, and columns on careers, educational issues, and management. Emphasis is also placed on personal audit information for the developing professional. Readers gain insight on corporate concerns and trends. In addition,The New Accountant offers students an on-line version of the magazine. Printed versions are provided by the Accounting Department in 354 Business Building.
Accounting Student Organizations
Accounting Society is for everyone interested in accounting and are encouraged to join. Speaker meetings are held with Beta Alpha Psi. Established authorities in the field of accounting provide information on career paths in public, industrial, tax and government accounting and bring their expertise on current issues affecting the accounting world today. Speakers and recruiters from the major CPA firms discuss career opportunities, professional ethics, interviewing, the CPA exam, and more. Top executives from national firms discuss opportunities as management accountants, the CPA exam and corporate issues. Social events add variety and networking. To be a member, students must attend 4 meetings each semester. There are no grade requirements and no dues.
Beta Alpha Psi, the National Honors Fraternity for Financial Information Professionals, offers opportunities for important contacts with accounting, finance, and IT professionals through programs and social events. The Penn State Chapter is forming its Fall 2009 Pledge Class. Students must have completed 30 credits and intend to be, or already are, enrolled in the Accounting, Finance, or MSIS majors. Academic requirements to be initiated are a 3.0 Cum Ave and a 3.2 GPA in upper level ACCTG, FIN and/or MSIS classes. The application is available on the Beta Alpha Psi homepage under Pledging.
If you have any questions or suggestions please contact Lara Jackson.
