University of Florida accounting students receive distinguished PCAOB scholarship

University of Florida Warrington College of Business students Morghan Copeland (MAcc ’25), Brianna Alvarez (MAcc ’25), and Leandro Sierra (MAcc ’26), studying in the Fisher School of Accounting, have been awarded the 2024-2025 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) academic scholarship. This prestigious scholarship will cover $15,000 worth of tuition, fees, books, and supplies.

“I was over the moon and in disbelief at the same time,” Copeland said. “I felt like I could finally take the breath I had been holding in for so long knowing that this year was financially covered.” 

Since 2011, the PCAOB has provided a source of funding for undergraduate and graduate accounting students enrolled in esteemed U.S. colleges and universities. The PCAOB Scholars Program aims to encourage outstanding students to pursue a career in auditing. 

“On a personal level, this scholarship is a game-changer. It fast-tracks my journey to becoming an auditor, which I am immensely grateful for,” Alvarez said. “The support from the PCAOB reassures me that I’m on the right track, and for that, I am forever thankful.” 

The scholarship is awarded through a nomination process. It is available to students who fulfill the following criteria: students enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in accounting, demonstrate an interest and proficiency in the field, and exhibit high ethical standards. Educational institutions are statistically chosen to submit student nominations and are encouraged to consider candidates from historically underrepresented populations in the accounting profession. 

“I felt accomplished, honored, and above all: grateful to the PCAOB and the Fisher School of Accounting,” Leandro said. “It’s an opportunity to hold myself to the reputable standards of the PCAOB and develop my skills and network within the accounting field.”

In anticipation of their spring 2025 graduation, the three award recipients await the launch of their professional journeys throughout Florida. They are determined to apply the valuable skills and insights gained from their studies to their careers, adapting to the evolving demands of the accounting industry. 

“When you spend five years learning and growing as an individual, everything you have encountered becomes a part of you,” Copeland said. “I know that my time here will reflect in my career and the professional I will continue to become.”

The Fisher School of Accounting offers abundant resources to empower students in their professional development. With a dedicated faculty and vibrant organizations, students have ample opportunities to immerse themselves fully in their career paths.

“The school truly shaped who I am today. The professors genuinely care about their students, ensuring we not only understand the material but also feel personally supported,” Alvarez said. “This support has been crucial for my academic and professional growth.”

Recipients of this scholarship are poised to excel in their fields, equipped with valuable skills and experiences that set them apart in the competitive landscape of their chosen professions.

“I highly encourage accounting students to apply to PCAOB, if given the chance, and certainly apply to similar scholarships as there is nothing to lose and everything to gain when applying,” Sierra said.