Master in Professional Accounting Admissions Blog

Insider Information for Prospective Texas McCombs MPA Students

Category: Austin/TX (page 1 of 3)

Meet Our MPA Student Ambassadors

December 4, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Introducing some of the Texas McCombs MPA Ambassadors!

These dynamic students represent the heart of our program, showcasing the endless opportunities that come with a Master in Professional Accounting degree. Whether your goals are in accounting or beyond, the ambassadors are here to share their unique journeys, insider tips, and personal experiences to help you navigate life as an MPA student.  To learn more about the MPA program click HERE!

 

Demetrius Garza

Demetrius Garza
Connect with Demetrius

Q: What’s your favorite place to study on campus?
A: My favorite spot to study on campus has to be the NRG room in McCombs. I really like the renovations they made over the summer, and the new monitors and study rooms are nice!
Q: What’s your favorite coffee shop or restaurant in Austin?
A: I enjoy visiting Dog Day Coffee and Mercado Sin Nombre; they both have some fantastic coffee with some unique flavors! If you go to Dog Day, I would recommend the Morning Ralph (thai tea infused nitro cold brew), and at Mercado Sin Nombre, the Horchata Cold Brew.
Q: Favorite show?
A: Severance on Apple TV+. Excited for the second season to come out in January!
Q: What’s your go-to way to unwind after a busy week of classes?
A: A great spot for me to de-stress from classes has got to be Barton Springs! Laying on the lawn and taking a dip in the pool on a hot day is always a great way to lighten my mood.

 

Brook Harris

Brooke Harris
Connect with Brooke

Q: What’s your favorite place to study on campus?
A: I enjoy studying at the PCL
Q: What’s your favorite coffee shop or restaurant in Austin?
A: My favorite coffee shop in Austin is Houndstooth
Q: Favorite show?
A: Suits
Q: What’s your go-to way to unwind after a busy week of classes?
A: Hang out with friends and go on walks

 

Christian Tinoco-Lopez

Christian Tinoco Lopez
Connect with Christian

Q: What’s your favorite place to study on campus?
A: I consider it a hidden gem, but I love studying in the Governor’s room in the Texas Union Building—the old-timey feel boosts my study power! If not there, you can find me in the PCL 2nd-floor quiet area—it is the quietest area on campus!
Q: What’s your favorite coffee shop or restaurant in Austin?
A: Such a tough question! It depends on my mood. Habanero Mexican Cafe in South Austin is great. Some good brunch (and a throwback to the past) can be found at Jim’s Restaurant toward North Austin. Nearby campus, my favorite spot is K-Bop—their Bulgogi bowl is amazing!
Q: Favorite show?
A: I haven’t had much of a chance to watch Netflix recently with school and life in general, but when I get a chance I like to catch up on the Outer Banks new seasons or Brooklyn Nine-Nine for a bit of a laugh.
Q: What’s your go-to way to unwind after a busy week of classes?
A: I’m an avid runner. Runs down Cesar Chavez Blvd and alongside Lady Bird Lake are truly therapeutic. I love crossing the pedestrian bridge to South Austin and looking back to see the Austin city skyline—it leaves me breathless every time!

 

Teaguen Weise

Teaguen Weise
Connect with Teaguen

Q: What’s your favorite place to study on campus?
A: PCL 4th floor or UTC 2nd floor by the windows
Q: What’s your favorite coffee shop or restaurant in Austin?
A: Original Blacks BBQ!
Q: Favorite show?
A: Grey’s Anatomy
Q: What’s your go-to way to unwind after a busy week of classes?
A: Ice-cream, visiting with friends, and anything nature

UT Austin Rises to No. 7 in U.S. News Rankings

October 18, 2024 / / 0 Comments

The University of Texas at Austin has climbed to No. 7 among public universities in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings. This achievement highlights UT’s commitment to academic excellence, with McCombs School of Business consistently recognized for its standout undergraduate and graduate programs. Notably, the Accounting specialty ranked No. 1, reflecting its leadership in accounting education. As UT Austin continues to excel, our students are poised for success in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

Read more details here.

Interested in learning more? Attend an upcoming Master in Professional Accounting info session to explore how this top-ranked program can help shape your future.

Click HERE to view all upcoming events

Austin Takes the Lead as the #1 City to Launch Your Career

Austin Takes the Lead as the #1 City to Launch Your Career

July 12, 2023 / / 0 Comments

In a recent analysis conducted by Bankrate, the top 50 metro areas in the US were evaluated based on three key factors: rent affordability, employment opportunities, and quality of life. Austin emerged as the number one city for millennials and members of Gen Z entering the workforce!

As graduation season wraps up, young adults across the country are embarking on their post-college journeys and contemplating where to start their careers. Austin is a city that embodies the perfect balance between work and play. With its booming job market, affordable living, and vibrant culture, Austin has become a magnet for young professionals seeking a head start in their careers.

The city’s strong economy has been driven by the presence of major tech companies, including Dell, IBM, Apple, Facebook, Samsung, Google and Tesla, which have established their operations in the area. Austin is also home to several major accounting firms, such as Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and EY, that offer a wide range of accounting, tax, and consulting services.

The Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) program at Texas McCombs stands out as the nation’s top-ranked program. Pursing a masters in accounting at McCombs and establishing a foundation in Austin allows graduates to gain access to a network of industry leaders and exciting career opportunities, setting them on the path to a successful and fulfilling professional journey in Austin.

Beyond its professional appeal, Austin boasts a vibrant cultural scene and an exceptional quality of life. The city is renowned for its live music venues, festivals, and diverse culinary offerings. With its numerous parks, hiking trails, and proximity to the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Austin provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and stay active.

Join us at an MPA event to learn more and make Austin your destination!

Austin: Ranked Best Labor Market

Austin: Ranked Best U.S. Job Market

March 1, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Austin landed among the top large cities in the Wall Street Journal’s annual job-market rankings for three years running!

The best place for Gen Z to find a job? Austin, Texas! Home of the McCombs School of Business, Austin was ranked as the best labor market in 2021! Considered one of the top cities for entry-level growth, Austin is home to a number of big companies such as Dell, Oracle, Amazon, Google and Tesla. Austin is also considered one of the most vibrant cities. From our live music, to endless outdoor activities and delicious food, Austin is a great place to call home.

Also ranked at #1 in the nation is our accounting program! Accounting is the backbone of a company and is needed in every industry. Accounting is in high demand for most businesses and provides a stable rate of employment. Earn your master’s degree in one of the top-ranked cities in the nation.

If you’re interested and want to learn more, register for one of our info sessions. You will learn more about the program, admissions process, curriculum, and career outcomes, as well as what life is like at McCombs.

Take a Virtual Tour of Texas McCombs!

July 9, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Have you been wanting to explore the McCombs School of Business but been unable to see it in person? Take a virtual tour and see what makes Texas McCombs a premiere and top-ranked business school.


Learn more about the McCombs School of Business, Master in Professional Accounting program, and living in Austin by visiting our website.

Texas McCombs Department of Accounting Facts

June 11, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Can you guess what year the first accounting course was offered at UT? Or when the first accounting PhD degree was conferred? How about the year we hired our first tenure-track female faculty member? We’ll take you through a short history of the Department of Accounting at The University of Texas at Austin.

Department of Accounting Facts

spurgeon bell

Spurgeon Bell was Dean of the School of Business Administration from 1922-1925.

1912: Spurgeon Bell stands before 20 students in UT’s first accounting class, the Theory and Practice of Accounting.

1928: George Newlove is the first accounting faculty member to receive a distinguished professorship, funded by discovery of oil on university land in 1923.

1934: The first PhD in Accounting at the College of Business Administration is awarded to Lloyd Raisty.

1939: For the first, but not the last, time, accounting classes are populated with more women than men (due to WWII enlistment in the armed forces).

1947: The Department of Accounting is one of five departments created in the College of Business Administration.

1948: The Master in Professional Accounting program is established.

anna fowler

Anna Fowler taught at UT from 1977-2004.

1957: Luzine Bickman is the first Black student to be initiated into the Theta Chapter, a UT fraternal accounting organization.

1958: With nine inaugural members, the Department of Accounting’s Advisory Council is established.

1962: The new Business Administration Economics Building opens (now known as CBA).

1977: Anna Fowler is the first female, tenure-track professor hired by the Department.

1985: The five-year integrated approach to the MPA is introduced, allowing McCombs freshmen and sophomores to begin working on their masters in accounting while still in undergrad.

rowland atiase

Rowland Atiase has been a faculty member since 1987.

1987: Rowland Atiase is the first Black, tenure-track professor hired by the Department.

1994: Texas McCombs’ Department of Accounting is ranked #1 in Public Accounting Report’s survey for the first time.

2002: The ECON-MPA program, which allows UT economics students to get a head start on MPA coursework during their senior year, is created.

2012: The Department of Accounting celebrates its 100 year anniversary!

2019: The MPA Program adopts a proposal requiring every course within the program to include content on data analytics.

As you explore your future in accounting, we hope you discovered  some new and useful information on the Department of Accounting. Reach out to us or visit our website to learn more!

 

9 Facts You Didn’t Know About UT Austin

November 12, 2020 / / 0 Comments

You may already know that Texas McCombs has the top-ranked graduate accounting program in the nation, but did you know these fun facts about The University of Texas at Austin? Keep reading to learn more about the 40 Acres!

Tower Girl

Tower Girl near her nest on top of the UT Tower

1. TOWER GIRL
The University’s campus is home to many native animals, including our very own falcon living on top of the UT Tower. Referred to as Tower Girl, she was discovered by the Biodiversity Center whose group of scientists and students study species and land use in Texas. She normally lays eggs every year that have the potential to hatch in April or May! The eyes of Tower Girl are truly upon you. Read about Tower Girl.

Gutenberg Bible

The Gutengerg Bible – Photo Credit: https://www.history.com/news/7-things-you-may-not-know-about-the-gutenberg-bible

2. THE GUTENBERG BIBLE
The Harry Ransom Center, an archive, library, and museum, holds 1 of the 49 Gutenberg Bibles that exist in the world today. Explore one of the first books created with moveable type.

Domino

Meet Domino, the FAC cat!

3. DOMINO THE FAC CAT
Domino, the campus cat, can be spotted sitting on the grass near the Flawn Academic Center (FAC) in West Mall. Many UT students, including a UT professor, take care of Domino with cat food and lots of petting.
Hear from fellow Longhorns about their love for Domino!

Albino Squirrel

While on campus, keep an eye out for the Albino Squirrel

4. THE LEGEND OF THE ALBINO SQUIRREL
Squirrels are very common creatures around campus, but one particular squirrel is hard to find: The Albino Squirrel. According to campus legend, if you spot this special squirrel on your way to an exam, you will get an A!

Joseph Nicéphore Niépce First Photograph

Joseph Nicéphore Niépce’s First Photograph – Photo Credit: https://www.hrc.utexas.edu/niepce-heliograph/

5. THE FIRST PHOTOGRAPH
The First Photograph by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce is one of the earliest forms of photography taken with a camera. It’s hard to see the image at first glance, but a deeper look shows a residence area in France. The Harry Ransom center purchased the photograph in 1963.

LBJ Library

The LBJ Library is a sight to see! Photo Credit: https://www.goodfreephotos.com/united-states/texas/austin/the-great-at-the-lbj-presidential-library.jpg.php

6. LBJ LIBRARY
UT houses one of the 14 Presidential Libraries called the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. Within its walls, the library holds over 45 million pages and many more artifacts about the LBJ administration. Check it out online!

Littlefield Fountain

The infamous Littlefield Fountain – Photo Credit: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/littlefield-fountain-on-ut-austin-campus-karen-stephenson.html?product=art-print

7. LITTLEFIELD FOUNTAIN
This beautiful fountain located in South Mall was created to honor the memory of students and alumni who lost their lives during World War I. It is now the home to majority of graduation pictures as students jump in with their stoles on and often champagne in hand; yet another UT tradition.
Find out more about its history.

Longhorn Logo

The famous burnt orange Longhorn logo!

8. THE ORIGIN OF BURNT ORANGE AND WHITE
In 1855, two students stopped by a store to purchase ribbons to hand out to the crowd during a game. When they arrived, the store owner only had the colors orange and white most of in stock. It wasn’t for another 73 years, in 1928, that UT declared orange and white as the official school colors.
Read more about this legendary story.

The UT Tower

The UT Tower lights up the night – Photo Credit: https://alcalde.texasexes.org/2013/01/why-is-the-tower-orange-now-you-can-find-out/

9. THE UT TOWER
Originally built as a library and standing at 307 feet tall, the UT Tower is one of the most iconic monuments on campus (and on any U.S. campus!). The Tower lights up orange after every sports win with a number “1” on each side to show UT pride, and it was first lit during the 1937 football season. Learn more about the Tower!

Photo credit: http://www.mermaidmedical.dk/event/sir-2019/austin-texas-skyline/

Things To Do in Austin During Quarantine

July 15, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Most of us are stuck inside during this strange time in our lives. It can be difficult to stay entertained and feel normal when there are so many uncertainties, especially around when we will be able to leave our homes and roam freely. However, there are many things we can either from the comfort of our homes or while maintaining social distancing that can help alleviate some of the stresses and anxieties that come with this pandemic, along with help us stay connected with one another and the outside world.  

Photo credit: https://www.austintexas.org/austin-insider-blog/post/your-guide-to-paddling-lady-bird-lake/

HIKING OR KAYAKING ALONG LADY BIRD LAKE
This is a very popular attraction in the Austin area, and it’s perfect for times like these when we must remain 6ft apart at all times. With limitations on crowds at their hiking trails, and the openness of the water in the lake, Lady Bird Lake offers ways to get out, get some fresh air, and stay safe! This is a great way to still get outside and see the sun, and to get some exercise too! You can even kayak with some friends while remaining at a good distance apart! This will open up so many possibilities of in person interactions with people you’ve only been able to speak with through a phone screen.

CONGRESS AVENUE BATS
If you don’t want to go kayaking or hiking, but still want an excuse to get some fresh air, go out and see the bats on Congress Ave! You can maintain the proper guidelines set by officials to stay safe while enjoying a beautiful sunset followed by some incredible bats! You can also set up a picnic with some friends, again while remaining a good distance apart, to enjoy some company and good food before the attraction!

Photo credit: https://cordcutting.com/blog/home-theater-7-sites-stream-live-shows-concerts-free-online/

LIVE CONCERT STREAMING
If you don’t want to head out just yet and you’re a lover of ACL and other music festivals/concerts Austin has to offer, this is the perfect thing for you! Austin’s most iconic festivals are livestreaming their concerts throughout the pandemic. There are also several artists around the country that are now performing online and you can watch these concerts from the comfort of your home!

VIRTUAL CLASSES
If you’re looking for a way to be creative and grow some art skills during this pandemic, The Contemporary Austin has free online art classes due to this pandemic.  You can tune into their Facebook and Instagram content to watch step-by-step tutorials to get creative and make art! Instead of art, if you’re more interested in getting active and moving, there are so many free online dance classes and workouts through different companies and individuals. Try out a new workout class or learn a new form of dance to keep your heart racing and to stay indoors!

VIRTUAL TOURS
Have you ever been to Blanton Museum of Art? No? Now is the perfect time to! Blanton is offering free virtual tours so you can explore the history and art that is stored inside this incredible museum while staying inside and safe. There are also so many online tours with several other museums throughout Austin and the country in general that are free to attend and all provide a unique virtual experience like never before.

Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/278519558186325104/

VISIT FAMOUS MURALS
There are so many iconic photo opportunities that are often crowded with people during the year. However, these crowds have been completely wiped due to the current situation, so why not take advantage of it? You can drive up to SoCo and get a photo in front of the “I love you so much” mural! The mornings and evenings are perfect timings for this since the sun isn’t too harsh so you’ll have some good lighting, you won’t be too hot, and you’ll avoid crowds!

There are so many other creative ways to have fun and stay active during quarantine! These are just a few ways to get some fresh air and also stay entertained! Although some of these are easily accessible from inside your home, stay safe when you choose the outdoor options and uphold the regulations and guidelines that have been set. Stay safe, and have fun!

Why Should You Choose Texas McCombs MPA?

February 7, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Why should you attend the MPA program at UT-Austin? Consider this…

1) Top-Ranked Accounting: The McCombs School of Business graduate and undergraduate accounting programs are ranked #1 with the Public Accounting Report. What contributes to our reputation for excellence?

2) High Quality Campus: The University of Texas at Austin is ranked highly in the nation and the world. Attending a top national university offers distinct advantages, such as access to

3) Great Place to Live: Would you like to live in a city that offers a relatively moderate cost of living and other attractive features? The city of Austin regularly tops many rankings. Austin offers great weather and plenty of outdoor activities in a laid-back, friendly environment and consistently receives high accolades for quality of life, innovation, employment opportunities, cost of living…and the list goes on….

4) Longhorn Spirit: The University of Texas at Austin is filled with history and traditions and plenty of exciting athletic events.

Want to learn more about our program from a student’s perspective? Contact an MPA student ambassador.

Hook ’em!

What to Do in Austin This Summer

July 16, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Take a break from MPA summer classes or your accounting internship to explore the city of Austin this summer. It’s the perfect time of year to take some leisure and try new things in this vibrant town, so check out these 10 summer events and activities you can do in Austin this summer.

Blues on the Green
29 years and counting, Blues on the Green is one of Austin’s most iconic summer events hosted by Austin City Limits Radio. This free concert series features upcoming local artists and is located at Zilker Park. Blues takes place once a month on a Wednesday, so get there early to get the best view. Parking is $15. Alternatively, you can take the bus with Capital Metro which offers plenty of routes directly to Barton Springs/Zilker. For the rest of summer 2019, the show dates are July 17 and August 7 at Zilker Park starting at 8:00 p.m.

Blues on the Green

Unplugged at the Grove
As the “live music capital of the world,” Austin boasts its fair share of music events. Unplugged at the Grove is a more frequent free concert series hosted by Austin City Limits Radio. Every Thursday, Austinites gather at the Shady Grove off Barton Springs Road to enjoy music and drinks. For summer 2019, the show dates are every Thursday until August 29 at Shady Grove at 8:00 p.m.

Barton Creek Greenbelt
Though live music may be the star of Austin, the city also offers a fantastic glimpse of the natural world. The Greenbelt is acclaimed as the place to be on a nice day with a variety of activities—hiking, biking, rock-climbing, swimming, and sun-bathing. This park has multiple access points directed towards the pool or the hiking trails. The Greenbelt provides a sweet relief from the city. If you prefer to play it safe, Barton Springs Pool is a sectioned area fed by natural spring water where you’re welcomed to chill and relax. The pool fee is $9 for non-residents and $5 for residents, plus it’s free after 9:00 p.m.

Barton Creek Greenbelt

Saturday Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday, rain or shine, the Sustainable Food Center supports local vendors and farmers by hosting a farmer’s market. With ready-to-eat foods from your favorite bakeries and fresh produce for when you want to cook, this market provides a sustainable way to support and buy local. Many artisanal products are available ranging from soap to hemp-based skincare making it the perfect place to shop for a little something for yourself or buy the perfect gift.  Every Saturday at Republic Square from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Saturday Farmers Market

Zilker Summer Musical
Zilker is the hub of summer events and the rest of the year. This year, the Zilker Theatre Production is debuting The Little Mermaid musical at the park. Bring some friends, a blanket, and bug spray to watch and sing along to the classic Disney songs we all know and love. For summer 2019, shows happen every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from July 12 to August 17 at Zilker Hillside Theatre at 8:15 p.m.

Mount Bonnell
As one of the highest points in Austin (other than our city skyscrapers), the views at Mount Bonnell are not one to miss. A popular destination for sunrise and sunset, take in the idyllic views of the Colorado River and downtown. With 102 steps, you’ll get your workout in, take some fun pictures, and enjoy a nice view. The mount is also a wonderful picnic destination and getaway.

Mount Bonnell

Pennybacker Bridge
Pennybacker Bridge, or commonly known as the 360 Bridge, is a curved bridge which offers the perfect place to capture the busy city. Crossing over Lady Bird Lake, the view combines the water and landscape for the perfect place to watch the sunset and see the whole expanse of the sky.

Pennybacker Bridge

South Congress
Just like New York has SoHo, Austin has SoCo. With funky and unique shops and eateries, SoCo embodies all the vibes of Austin as a landmark location with the iconic “I love you so much” mural. Visit Amy’s Ice Cream for a cool treat with flavors such as avocado and apple pie. You can also stop by the YETI flagship store for an experience like no other complete with a bar, customization station, and a display of historical artifacts.

South Congress

Movies in the Park
A take on drive-in movies, the Austin Parks Foundation hosts movie nights for everyone to enjoy in parks around town. There’s no specific genre, but come out and watch for the first time or re-watch your favorite classic movies from Space Jam to Harry Potter. Food trucks are available on-site where you can grab a bite from an Austin favorite. For the remainder of summer 2019, dates and movies are: July 25 (The Road to El Dorado) and August 16 (Caddyshack).

Yoga Summer Sunset Series
Presented by Wanderlust Yoga, this summer series event is not one to miss with free yoga Tuesday evenings. A perfect way to wind down and relax from the workday or your studies before heading home for the night. You don’t have to be an experienced yogi to enjoy this event which is suited for all levels. Bring a mat and bathe in the setting sun wearing your most fashionable athleisure fit. For summer 2019, yoga is every Tuesday between July 2 and August 27 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

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