MSCPA Student Member and Merrimack College Class of 2016
Carissa is also the MSCPA Student Ambassador at Merrimack College!
1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where you grew up? Attended school?
My name is Carissa Healey. I grew up in Burlington, which most people know of because of the mall, and I went to Burlington High. I’m a junior at Merrimack College in North Andover working towards my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting.
2. What influenced you to study accounting?
I learned in high school that I really loved numbers when my math courses were my favorite and it’s where I was really excelling. I decided when I was applying to colleges my senior year that I would go to school for accounting and I knew that because of the influence of my mother and grandfather who both work in the field.
3. What has been your experience with the accounting program at your school?
Merrimack’s accounting professors are fantastic. They have incredible knowledge and lots of hands-on experience. I was lucky to have the opportunity to meet and learn from some amazing people before they retired over the past two years. Now, Merrimack has been growing its program and hiring new accounting professors. They may have big shoes to fill but I’m excited to grow with the program over the next year as it makes these changes.
4. Is there a particular aspect of accounting you like the best & why?
I would say the tax aspect of accounting is my favorite as of now because there is endless learning possibilities and it is always changing. However, I hope to get experience with the audit aspect over the next year.
5. Have you participated in any internships, and if so, how many and how were they?
I will actually be participating in my first full-time Co-Op this spring at Katz, Nannis + Solomon in Waltham. I am eager to get some real life experience and learn from professionals. I will also be working with a fellow Merrimack student and interns from other schools.
6. What advice would you give to those who consider studying accounting?
My advice to anyone considering a career in accounting is don’t fool yourself. It will take a lot of hard work and time – it can be demanding – but it is rewarding when you reach your goals or you finish a busy season, you will look back and realize how much you have accomplished. If you want a career that you can grow in then definitely choose accounting.
7. What are your future goals and career plans?
After graduating from Merrimack, I plan on going to graduate school (to be determined where) while taking the CPA exam. I hope to enter the field with an entry level position shortly after graduating.
8. Outside of accounting what could we find you up to?
I am a very active person. I love playing almost any sport with my friends or family. I would say my favorite hobby is kayaking in the summer, but I recently learned last winter how to snowboard so I am excited to get back on the slope this winter.
If you would like to be featured in a Student Member Spotlight please contact us!
On The CPA Track 