Student Spotlight: Julie Varsha

Tax Day can be a stressful date for some Americans as they rush to file their taxes before the deadline.

For those who can’t afford tax preparation assistance, the stress is even greater.

Fortunately, students like junior Julie Varsha are here to help. Varsha is one of many Fisher School of Accounting students who are volunteering with the United Way of North Central Florida and its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program—which provides free tax preparation and filing to anyone who earns a low to moderate income.

Learn about Julie, and why VITA is such an important program.

Name: Julie Varsha

Hometown: Calabasas, CA

Major: Accounting

Year: Junior

Student Organizations:

• Vice President, Fisher School of Accounting Council
• Member, Beta Alpha Psi

Why did you choose to attend UF and Warrington?

UF is a top university and the Fisher School of Accounting is ranked one of the top 10 public accounting schools in nation. The Gator Nation is everywhere!

Why did you decide to major in Accounting?

I have always been a numbers person, and I enjoy the challenges that accounting brings.

How has Warrington impacted you?

Warrington has given me the tools to be successful in my future career. It has provided me with so many opportunities to network with various firms and get involved in different organizations throughout the business school.

What has been your favorite experience or memory so far at Warrington?

My favorite experience so far has been being involved in the Fisher School of Accounting Council. I came into UF not knowing many people, so I’ve been able to form friendships with so many people, and found my closest friends through this organization.

Why did you get involved with VITA?

I got involved with VITA because I saw how great of an opportunity it is. I am able to give back to the local Gainesville community and learn more about taxes and different aspects of accounting.

Why is VITA an important project for the Fisher School? Why should Fisher students get involved?

VITA is a program where anyone can volunteer to complete tax returns for people in need in the local community. It is an important project for the Fisher School because it is a great way for students to apply what they are learning and to give back to the community.  Fisher students should get involved because it is a great experience that applies to their future careers while also allowing them to connect to people in the community.

How have you been impacted by your participation in VITA?

The people we help are so appreciative, and it feels good to know that I am making a difference in someone’s life and helping them save money. I always leave feeling great and wanting to go back and do more.

Tell us about your most recent internship or study abroad experience.

This past summer, I interned with Applied Genetic Technologies Corporation, a biotechnology company in Alachua. I was part of the accounting team where I helped with everything from preparing and reconciling account payable reports, vendor lists, and fixed assets reports to helping prepare for the auditors. It was a great experience where I learned a lot about business processes and corporate accounting.

What are your current career plans?

This summer, I will be attending multiple Summer Leadership Programs at large accounting firms. I hope to work for a Big 4 accounting firm once I finish school and obtain my CPA.

What advice would you give incoming students?

Don’t be afraid to get involved early. Warrington has so many great opportunities and there is something for everyone.

Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.

I love going to concerts and music festivals.

How do you spend your time when not studying?

I enjoy spending time with friends and family, listening to live music, volunteering, and playing intramural sports.

If you had a million dollars, how would you spend it?

I would love to travel and see the world. I am fascinated by learning about different cultures and seeing the different ways of life all over the world.

What song has been stuck in your head recently?

“Light It Up” by Major Lazer.

Which social media platform could you not live without?

I don’t think I could live without Snapchat. I love that I am able to stay in touch with friends and see everyone’s different adventures.