Accounting Student's Research Tackles Industry Talent Shortage

Crystal Wong, an accountancy student at Northern Illinois University (NIU), has made a remarkable achievement by having her honors thesis accepted for publication in the prestigious academic journal Strategic Finance. Her research examines the declining number of accounting majors and explores strategies to address this critical challenge facing the industry.

Unlocking the Potential of the Accounting Pipeline

Uncovering the Accounting Talent Shortage

The accounting industry is facing a significant talent shortage as the number of college students majoring in accounting has declined in recent years. This trend poses a serious challenge, as the demand for skilled accountants remains high. Wong's research aims to identify the factors that influence students' decisions to pursue accounting as a major and uncover potential solutions to this pressing issue.Through an anonymous survey funded by donor support to the Department of Accountancy, Wong gathered valuable insights from current NIU business students. Her findings reveal that many non-accounting students are unaware of the diverse career paths and versatility an accounting degree can offer. This lack of understanding may be a contributing factor to the shrinking pool of accounting majors.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Accountants

Wong's research not only highlights the problem but also provides a roadmap for addressing it. By identifying the key factors that shape students' perceptions and decisions regarding accounting, her work can inform public policy organizations and educational institutions in developing targeted strategies to attract more students to the field.One of the critical insights from Wong's research is the importance of exposing students to the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the accounting profession. Her own experiences, such as the improv workshop at Second City in Chicago, demonstrate the value of incorporating interactive and engaging activities that help students develop essential communication skills.

Mentorship and Guidance: The Cornerstone of Success

Wong's journey to success was not without the support of dedicated faculty members, particularly her advisor, Associate Professor Candice Hux. Hux's guidance and mentorship played a pivotal role in helping Wong refine her research and achieve this remarkable milestone.Hux praised Wong's strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and ability to take initiative, which set her apart and prepared her for this success. The collaborative relationship between Wong and Hux exemplifies the Department of Accountancy's commitment to creating transformative learning experiences and supporting research that advances the accounting profession.

Paving the Way for Future Leaders

Wong's accomplishment is a testament to her dedication and the quality of education she received at NIU. Her published research not only addresses a critical industry challenge but also serves as a shining example for aspiring accountants.As Wong embarks on her Master of Accounting Science (MAS) program at NIU and prepares to join Deloitte, her future looks bright. Her success story inspires others to follow in her footsteps and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the accounting profession.