Meet VSCPA Scholar Juan Chan
November 01, 2025
Every VSCPA scholar carries with them a story of ambition, discovery and the drive to succeed.
Meet Juan Chan, an undergraduate senior at George Mason University and 2025 VSCPA Foundation scholarship recipient. His journey into accounting has been shaped by the influence of family, the challenges of immigration, and a growing desire to give back to his community through the profession.
A journey of discovery
Juan’s decision to pursue accounting was shaped by two defining experiences: his stepfather’s example and his own journey as an immigrant to the United States in 2019. His stepfather, who never attended college, always encouraged him to pursue education and showed him the value of hard work and perseverance. “His dedication and work ethic inspired me to see accounting not just as a career or profession but as a tool for knowledge and empowerment for financial stability,” Juan shares.
At the same time, Juan’s experience as an immigrant opened his eyes to the barriers many face when adapting to a new country. These challenges strengthened his determination to become a CPA and to mentor and advise others from underrepresented backgrounds.
A vision for the future
Juan will graduate from George Mason University and plans to continue his path toward CPA licensure. His professional experiences have already given him valuable insights into the impact accountants can make. He has served as an internal auditor at Fannie Mae, worked as a compliance and risk analyst at the Federal Home Loan Banks, and is interning at the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). Each role has strengthened his understanding of how accountants uphold ethical practices, promote transparency, and contribute to organizational success.
Looking ahead, Juan is committed to using his CPA credential to mentor aspiring professionals and advocate for education in his community. “I think becoming a CPA will provide me with the skillsets and the ability to achieve my goals and create a change in my community and beyond,” he explains.
The power of your support
Juan’s decision to pursue accounting was also reinforced through opportunities to connect with leaders in the profession. In 2024, he was selected as one of 100 students to attend the AICPA Leadership Workshop in Atlanta, an experience that strengthened his commitment to becoming a CPA. The event highlighted the importance of student development and public service, values that Juan now hopes to carry forward in his own career.
He also credits the many mentors he has met along the way — from Big Four professionals to the chief of audit at Fannie Mae — for modeling what it means to give back. Their example of volunteering, mentoring and guiding students continues to motivate him to follow in their footsteps.
An exciting future ahead
With his family’s encouragement, the support of mentors, and the opportunities made possible by the VSCPA Educational Foundation, Juan is preparing for a meaningful future as a CPA. His journey reflects resilience, gratitude, and a commitment to helping others overcome barriers.
The VSCPA Foundation is proud to support scholars like Juan as they work to achieve their goals and strengthen the CPA profession. We look forward to seeing the impact he will make in accounting and in the communities he serves.
To help more students like Juan reach their potential, visit vscpa.com/foundation.
Together, we can empower the next generation of CPAs and build a stronger future.