Pathways to Success: How Community Colleges Serve as Incubators for the Next Generation of Accountants

• In Event: Factors and Experiences Shaping College Student Success

Abstract

The decline in accounting graduates and the increase in accountant retirements are material weaknesses that threaten the economic competitiveness of the U.S. This paper presents a meaningful and effective program that has demonstrated an increased interest in the accounting profession among community college students, which motivated them to transfer to a bachelor's program. The Accounting Scholars Development Program establishes a partnership between community college students and accounting professionals to provide an immersive learning experience. Outcomes show that participants have a transfer rate of 75 percent, which is significantly higher than the national average. The feedback on ASDP highlights its impact and emphasizes the need to expand programs where racial and ethnically diverse students can create their own career pathways.

Author

• Allyson T. Clarke, Howard University