Research Symposium

BIO

Samuel is a freshman at Florida State University in the Honors College and a Presidential Scholar graduating in 2029. He is originally from Westchester, New York, and is passionate about pre-med related research topics, especially those connected to genetics, pulmonology, and patient care. Some of his main research interests include CRISPR and cystic fibrosis, because he is fascinated by how scientific innovation can improve treatment options and quality of life for patients. After completing his undergraduate education here at FSU, he hopes to attend medical school to continue building his knowledge and skills in the medical field. His long-term goal is to become a doctor and use both research and clinical care to make a meaningful impact on others and help those who have gone through similar pulmonary issues that I have.

Social Media's Impact on Career Choice of College Students: A Study of Accounting & Finance Professions

Abstract

As social media continues to engulf nearly every aspect of society, it increasingly shapes individuals’ attitudes and decision-making. Simultaneously, both the accounting and finance professions are experiencing a shortage of college graduates. This study examines how social media content and platform source influence students’ perceptions of accounting and finance, and further explores students’ willingness to enter these professions. Within our survey-based study, we manipulated the image source, content type, and the depicted major to examine how each factor or combination of factors influences students’ judgment. Participants enrolled in introductory accounting courses at Florida State University were randomly assigned to view a satirical or neutral meme depicting either accounting or finance. After viewing an assigned meme, participants completed survey questions assessing how the content influenced their perceptions and their longer-term intentions toward the profession. Once all of the survey responses have been completed, data will be analyzed using a factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) to test whether meme type and professional label produce significant differences in students’ career perceptions and effort outcomes. The results are expected to show that exposure to satirical content reduces positive opinions of accounting and finance. These diminished perceptions are expected to lead to lower students’ interest in pursuing these careers, particularly among those who are undecided or less committed to a specific career path. This research provides practical insights for educators and professional organizations seeking to improve recruitment messaging and counteract negative social media narratives.

Keywords: Social Media, Accounting, Finance