Member Spotlight: Olga Gira
July 18, 2022
Olga Gira
Washington State University-Vancouver
VP of Reporting - Beta Alpha Psi - Nu Theta Chapter
2022 OSCPA Educational Foundation Willow Endowment Scholarship Recipient
Why did you decide to pursue your CPA?
When I started university, I knew I wanted to go into public accounting. Since CPA is one of the highest designations you can get, I decided that I would challenge myself and pass the exams upon graduation. To me, CPA is more than 3 letters. It means more opportunities and it carries a huge weight of responsibility.
Who has inspired you along the way?
My inspiration are all the great people I met during the recruitment events, during my two internships, and all people who start from zero and become effective in the world. Each person is unique and if we can learn one thing from each other, we will do better.
What does community mean to you?
I love being involved in community projects. Just a few weeks ago, I had the chance to volunteer with the Delap team at a local food bank. It is the most rewarding job knowing that you could make a positive impact in someone’s life. I tutor WSU-Vancouver accounting students on pre-intermediate topics. I also volunteered for the IRS VITA program, where I filled out tax returns for low-income families.
How has being an OSCPA member benefitted you?
Being an OSCPA member has offered me the opportunity to connect with public accounting professionals. Also, I have access to many webinars, conferences, events, forums, etc.
What advice would you give a new accounting student?
To all accounting students out there, I will say: listen to your heart. Complete at least two internships by the end of your program. Once you figure out what you would like to do, focus on that subject, work hard, connect with as many people as you can and be optimistic and perseverant. I like to follow Dan Millman's quote: “Dream big. Start small and then connect the dots.”