Networking & Social Opportunities

The Accounting Area provides students numerous means to learn about career opportunities in accounting and we encourage students to participate in as many of these events as possible

CPAC -- Cal Poly Accounting Club

CPAC meets each Tuesday at 11:00 am Most meetings feature a speaker discussing subjects of interest to students: the requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant, career opportunities in industry and government, career paths in large CPA firms, etc. Students are encouraged to join and participate. CPAC sponsors a number of social events throughout the year and provides numerous leadership opportunities for students. In addition to the CPAC Board, the club organizes the following events which create leadership opportunities:

Fall Symposium

Approximately 35 corporations, governmental agencies, and CPA firms send representatives to CPAC’s Fall Symposium. Several of the firms frequently top BusinessWeek’s list of the “Best Places to Launch your Career” and many appear on Fortune’s list of “Best Places to Work.” Fall Symposium gives graduating seniors a chance to meet recruiters and discuss their career opportunities prior to their formal interview.

Careers in Accounting Day

Approximately 15 corporations, governmental agencies, and CPA firms send representatives to CPAC’s Careers in Accounting Day. Many of the firms that attend appear on BusinessWeek’s list of the “Best Places to Launch your Career” or Fortune’s list of “Best Places to Work.” The event allows juniors to meet recruiters and learn about firms prior to their formal interviews.

Day in the Park

CPAC and the Accounting Area hold a Day in the Park alumni event in May. It begins with a barbeque and games on O’Neill Green. Many alumni who attend Day in the Park work for major employers, so the event provides a casual social environment for students to network with prospective employers.

Spring Banquet

CPAC holds its Spring Banquet to celebrate the success of our accounting students. Typically, 30 accounting juniors receive scholarships totaling approximately $50,000. Numerous seniors are recognized for their outstanding academic achievements. Other seniors are recognized for their contributions to Cal Poly, the Orfalea College of Business, the Accounting Area and to CPAC.