Member Spotlight: Jake Yan
September 17, 2024
Jake Yan
University of Oregon
2024 OSCPA Educational Foundation Recipient
John & Catherine Knox Accounting Scholarship
Who or what inspired you to get where you are today?
What has inspired me to get to where I am today is my parents. They've always pushed me to succeed, even from a young age, and I’m incredibly grateful for their love and support. They’ve given me opportunities that many kids my age could only dream of, and I owe so much of who I am today to them.
How will you define success as a CPA?
Becoming a CPA requires extensive knowledge and skills, but I believe that to truly excel in the profession, it takes more than just technical expertise—it requires a genuine desire to help people. Many individuals and small business owners struggle to understand basic accounting or tax concepts. A successful CPA not only provides valuable guidance in these areas but also earns the trust of clients by addressing their needs with care and integrity.
Tell us how you achieved one of your most recent professional goals.
One of my recent professional goals was successfully completing my tax internship at a mid-size firm. Navigating my first tax season brought a lot of pressure, requiring strong time management and focus to meet deadlines and expectations. This experience not only helped me develop professionally but also provided me with deeper knowledge about taxes.
What are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about taxes. I genuinely enjoy working with taxes and helping others navigate their tax-related needs. It’s fulfilling to assist people with something so important, especially when they may not fully understand it. The complexity and impact of taxes are something I find highly intriguing.