Member Spotlight: Kelsey Rundorff

Who or what inspired you to get where you are today?
As a first-generation student, my dad has been my biggest inspiration. His hard work instilled a strong work ethic in me and the belief that education is key to unlocking opportunities. I made a promise to him when I was seven—that I would one day earn my bachelors degree. That promise has stayed with me, driving me to pursue academic and professional goals with determination, including my double major in Accounting and Finance and my path to CPA eligibility.

How will you define success as a CPA?
As a CPA, I will define success by the impact I make on my clients and colleagues. The guidance and support from my CPA mentors has been instrumental for me, and I believe that a successful CPA is both knowledgeable and supported by a strong professional network. Success means leveraging both my expertise and the collective wisdom of the CPA community to deliver results and build lasting relationships.

Tell us how you achieved one of your most recent professional goals.
One of my recent professional goals was to secure an audit internship at a top accounting firm after interning as a tax intern at an alternative investment firm in New York last summer. I achieved this by diligently preparing for interviews, leveraging my accounting and finance coursework at PSU, and networking in the field. Ultimately, I secured an internship with KPMG in Silicon Valley, where I worked with teams in the tech industry. This experience not only helped me grow professionally but also brought me closer to my long-term career goals.

What are you most passionate about?
I'm passionate about financial literacy and the empowerment that comes with understanding finances. My academic journey has deepened my appreciation for how crucial financial literacy is, not just for individuals but for communities as a whole. Whether it’s helping someone navigate their taxes, plan for retirement, or make informed decisions about their business, I believe that spreading financial knowledge can create lasting positive change. 

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