Research Symposium

BIO

Bridnie Ezai is a freshman at Florida State University, majoring in Clinical Professions and planning to add a minor in Business. She is a student in the University Honors Program and a Presidential Scholar, where she is actively engaged in academic enrichment and research opportunities. Bridnie currently participates in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, where she works on the Accounting Alumni Success Factors Project under the mentorship of Aleksandra Zimmerman in the College of Business. The project explores the question, “What factors influence the success of business professionals?” Through this research, the team designed and distributed a survey to examine potential predictors of professional success among business alumni. Bridnie contributed to developing survey questions, mapping hypotheses, and gathering background data on Big Four professionals and professional organizations. Using platforms such as Excel and Qualtrics, the team analyzed survey responses to evaluate how factors such as hometown, major choice, internship experience, and demographics may influence career outcomes. The findings aim to provide practical insights that help undergraduate students better understand the pathways that lead to successful careers in accounting, finance, and other business-related fields. Bridnie plans to go to medical school post-grad and pursue interdisciplinary experiences that combine healthcare, business, and research.

Accounting Alumni Success Factors Project

Abstract

The purpose of the undergraduate survey research has been to answer the question, “What factors influence the success of business professionals?” We are exploring this question to help undergraduates and early professionals achieve their career goals. In this research, we designed a survey and created hypothesis mappings to outline potential questions and hypotheses. We also gathered data on Big 4 professionals and professional organizations. Platforms like Excel and Qualtrics were used to develop and analyze the survey. After collecting responses, we analyzed the data and used this analysis to determine whether our hypotheses were supported. Currently, we are examining the results to understand whether factors like hometown, major choice, first internship, demographics, etc., play a significant role in undergraduate success. The findings of this research have important implications for students, helping them predict or potentially improve their chances of being hired after graduation and building a successful career at top accounting, finance, or other business-related firms.

Keywords: Accounting, Business, Job success