Learning Opportunity

A pair of MPA students appointed to a prestigious program by the Financial Accounting Standards Board

Two Texas McCombs MPA students were among the students selected to participate as postgraduate technical assistants in a prestigious program sponsored by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB).

Each year, six students are chosen for each of the organization’s summer and winter cohorts. Lindsey Hoyer, BBA ’21, MPA ’22, begins her PTA term in summer 2022, and Josh Costo, BBA’ 21, MPA ’22, begins his term in winter 2023.

FASB, the entity responsible for establishing accounting and financial reporting standards for U.S. companies, sponsors a one-year PTA program for individuals interested in working at the intersection of accounting and standard setting.

Why do MPA graduates pursue the PTA opportunity? Hoyer explains: “I decided to pursue this opportunity because I have loved learning about accounting concepts and standards, and I wanted to learn more about how those standards come to be.” The program offers participants the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge conversations and research about topics that are top-of-mind for standard setters and professionals in practice.

PTAs are chosen based on their academic aptitude as well as their communication and professional skills. The McCombs students were thankful for the opportunity at this early stage of their careers. “I am humbled and grateful to be granted the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in accounting to address complex accounting issues and improve financial reporting,” Costo says.