Meet Paula Beiser, CPA, accounting instructor and online coordinator with ECPI College

What college or university did you attend?
Christopher Newport University, B.S. Accounting, 1991
William & Mary College, Masters of Business, 1995

When did you decide to major in accounting and to become a CPA?
My mother was a direct influence. I enjoyed working with numbers. I am extremely organized and articulate, but enjoy working with people as well.

What is your current position and responsibilities?
I work at ECPI College as an accounting instructor and online coordinator.

What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy the sense of reward in teaching students what I love.

What is your most valuable lesson learned?
Pursue your dreams! If you have a goal it can become reality.

What piece of advice do you have for students about the "real world" of accounting?
In college, retain the basics of your course work, be aware of how to research and adapt to change. In the real world of accounting, you will be faced with many processes that are different from what you have retained in college. Be aware of this, and use the fundamentals to your advantage. Learn as much as possible from your positions and keep a positive attitude; you will excel.

What are some of your volunteer activities?
I am a VSCPA committee member, IMA officer and donate to various charities (time and money).

What do you do for fun? Hobbies?
Scuba diving, traveling, boating and spending time with family.

What do you think people would be most surprised to learn about you?
My sense of humor and creativity.