INCPAS Scholar alumni Lauren Pham answers an important question surrounding the CPA profession. 

Q: As you think about the organization you hope to work for, how important is it that they are working on diversity and inclusion and creating an inclusive environment and team?

While I haven’t chosen a specific company or organization to work for, I believe it’s extremely important that any and every organization works on diversity and inclusion because it creates a trusting and open environment. Currently, I have a summer internship with the Indiana Department of Transportation in their accounting department. Even though I’ve only been there a couple of weeks, I’ve learned a lot about the organization. Their inclusive environment allows people to learn, grow and become better versions of themselves.

In an inclusive environment, diversity can help foster a creative and innovative workplace, while also allowing employees to feel proud about where they work. Having that environment can also help with employee turnover due to employees not feeling welcome or feeling left out.

INCPAS Scholars is an award-winning, free program that encourages students to consider becoming a CPA. The only program of its kind, INCPAS Scholars introduces students to the profession by pairing them with practicing CPAs, touring CPA firms and businesses that employ CPAs, and participating in events to immerse them in the profession. You can support the program at incpas.org/scholars.

Want to get involved as an INCPAS Scholars mentor? Contact Ali Paul, CAE, for more information at apaul@incpas.org.