Annie Geronimo

• Audit Intern – Forvis Mazars
• INCPAS Scholar Indianapolis 2021–22
• Attending Butler University, majoring in accounting, graduates spring 2026

We have shared several stories about our INCPAS Scholars throughout the years. The program has helped shape the careers of many aspiring accountants, providing them with the tools and opportunities to succeed. 

Annie participated in the 2021–22 INCPAS Scholars program and currently attends Butler University. She is majoring in accounting and will graduate next spring. She shared how the INCPAS Scholars program helped her prepare for college and updated us on her long-term professional goals.

INCPAS: What was your biggest takeaway from the INCPAS Scholars program?

Annie: The art and importance of networking. Early in the program, I was connected to dozens of professionals, universities and programs related to accounting. I never fully realized the significance of networking until I learned this principle from a professional:
“It’s not who you know, but who knows you.”

Your professional reputation is established early in your career, and the INCPAS Scholars program provided me a clear pathway to success from the start. Opportunities, job experiences and offers often stem from that first interaction with a recruiter, staff member or partner at a firm. This program thoroughly prepared me to network effectively and make a lasting impact during that initial meeting. 

INCPAS: How did the Scholars program prepare you for college?

Annie: It provided me with the assurance of a smooth transition to college. One of the programs I particularly loved was College Night—a FAFSA representative spoke with us about what FAFSA is, the requirements, when to apply and answered any questions we had about the process. 

Another experience I truly enjoyed was visiting Purdue’s campus, where we had an in-depth campus tour, learned the requirements for accounting majors, and student panel interactions. These experiences prepared me exceptionally well for both my accounting and my university.  

INCPAS: You’ve had a variety of audit internships at CPA firms. What advice can you give other students looking for internships?

Annie: All the opportunities and internships I’ve secured have come from building personal connections with recruiters, staff members or partners early on. I always follow up after making a great connection, and—if I’m invited for an interview—I make sure to treat it as a professional conversation vs. overly formal “business talk.”

Editor’s Note: See Annie’s in-depth advice at incpas.org/Internship. 

Celebrating her graduation from Ben Davis University High School.	Annie and her PwC internship group enjoying their recent trip to Disney World.

INCPAS: You are currently an audit intern at Forvis Mazars. What is your favorite part of your job?

Annie: The overall client experience. I am currently in my busy season internship. Although I work over 60 hours a week, I feel a deep sense of accomplishment in my work. I genuinely enjoy auditing, learning about a variety of companies and collaborating with my team. I have had the privilege of meeting wonderful individuals and have gained more knowledge than I ever imagined possible. I am excited to continue learning and growing in my career, and this internship has solidified my decision to pursue a future in audit.

INCPAS: Why is it important to you to stay involved with INCPAS?

Annie: INCPAS played an important role in helping me decide what I truly wanted to pursue in my career. Ali Tonini will always hold a special place in my heart. She has been instrumental in guiding me through learning about accounting, connecting with firms and broadening my perspective and professional goals. Through Ali, I was introduced to Gaby Alejandro, managing partner at PwC. This introduction led to an incredible opportunity—my summer internship this year. I owe so much of the breakthroughs I’ve made in my professional journey to INCPAS.

INCPAS: What is your favorite INCPAS event you’ve attended?

Annie: There are so many events I love, but one of my favorites is Meet the Profession Night (learn more about all of INCPAS’ Meet the Profession events at incpas.org/MeetProfession). It gave me the opportunity to meet numerous staff and managers from various firms across Indianapolis. This event was pivotal for me, as it helped me secure my first internship. I also enjoyed connecting with high school students there who were in the same position I once was, and I love hearing about their goals and sharing advice.

INCPAS: What are your long-term professional goals? Do you plan to take the CPA Exam?

Annie: I am currently on track to graduate from Butler University in May 2026 and plan to obtain my CPA license shortly afterward. I am seeking a dynamic audit role that allows me to work across various industries, as I am eager to deepen my understanding of the profession and grow as a CPA.

Another passion of mine is volunteering with organizations that support immigrant students in starting their professional careers. In the future, I want to establish a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping students from third-world countries attend university in the United States. I want to give them the same incredible opportunities I
was fortunate to have through the Indiana CPA Society. 

INCPAS Scholars is an award-winning, free program that encourages high school 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 Tonini, CAE, INCPAS VP – Pipeline & Outreach, for more information.