In early June, the Adkerson School of Accountancy welcomed its 2025-26 Master of Accountancy and Master of Taxation students with a Graduate Student Orientation.

The program, held each summer just before the commencement of coursework, was introduced in 2023 at the recommendation of the ASAC Student Advisory Council. It acquaints students with what they can expect in the year ahead and what will be expected of them.

This year, 76 students are enrolled in MSU’s graduate accounting programs – 51 on campus and 25 online. At orientation, they were greeted by ASAC Director Shawn Mauldin, who also introduced the faculty. They heard from Graduate Student Advisor Trina Pollan and recent master’s graduates Peyton Hilliard and Wyatt Reid. Associate Professor Brad Lang offered insight into navigating the CPA Exam and graduate school, while Professor Alan Stancill and Becker representative Kurtis Williams talked with them about Becker CPA Exam preparation. Students also had opportunities to become acquainted with one another during a luncheon and through activities led by Business Manager Michelle Bricka.

“Graduate orientation was a great opportunity to get to know other students and understand the expectations of graduate school,” says participant Ella Mitchell. “It allowed us to speak with professors and learn more about the Becker platform we will need for CPA exam prep. I believe it was a good introduction into our next year in the Mississippi State graduate accounting program.”

An additional hour of orientation was provided for graduate assistants to familiarize them with their duties.