Today, our club had the pleasure of hosting Ronyhel Peguero — a licensed CPA, Baruch alum, and current law student — who shared valuable insights into the world of accounting, career growth, and making the most of your college years.
Ronyhel’s journey started at BMCC where he majored in accounting, later transferring to Baruch College, and eventually earning his CPA. With experience across multiple small firms and teaching at Baruch as a lecturer, his perspective gave our members a meaningful look at what lies ahead for aspiring accountants.
Here are some highlights from his talk:
Don’t Stop at the Degree
A degree is just the start. If you’re serious about accounting, aim for your CPA. It opens doors, shows dedication, and sets you apart in a competitive field.
Don’t Rush College
Take your time to explore opportunities, use campus resources, and get involved. Classes are important, but what you do outside the classroom can often matter more when it comes to landing internships and full-time roles.
Do the Work
Accounting is a great career path but it requires real effort. Whether you’re crunching numbers, preparing reports, or analyzing data, the field rewards those who are committed and curious.
Public vs. Corporate Accounting
Public accounting gives you exposure to diverse industries and clients, building a strong foundation. Corporate accounting is more specialized and focused. Both paths have their advantages—find what fits your goals.
AI in Accounting? A Tool, Not a Threat
AI isn’t here to take accounting jobs, it’s here to enhance them. Learning how to use tools and tech to your advantage will make you a more effective and competitive accountant.
Accounting is More Than Math
It’s about using financial data to help companies grow, make better decisions, and stay profitable. It’s analytical, impactful, and constantly evolving.
Huge thanks to Ronyhel for sharing his story and dropping real-world wisdom. His journey is proof that with focus, discipline, and a willingness to keep learning, accounting can open countless doors.
We also had students from NABA (National Association of Black Accountants), a organization that offers career development, mentorship, and networking opportunities for underrepresented students in accounting and finance.
Through events, workshops, and conferences, NABA connects students with professionals and firms, creating a pipeline to internships and jobs. Getting involved in organizations like NABA can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Networking isn’t optional, it’s essential. Building relationships, asking questions, and learning from others is how you grow. Whether it’s through clubs, events, or LinkedIn, every connection matters. Your network is your net worth.
Too many students rely on cold applying, hoping for the best. The truth is, recruiters hire people they recognize, trust, and have connected with. That only happens when you show up at events, at info sessions, or even in a simple LinkedIn DM.
Why Networking Matters:
You gain insider knowledge—things you won’t find in job descriptions.
You get real advice from people already doing the job.
You build relationships with recruiters, alumni, and mentors who can vouch for you.
You can discover roles or firms you’ve never even heard of before.
Networking isn’t just for extroverts. It’s for anyone who wants to build a future that doesn’t depend solely on an application portal.
Tip from the speakers: Talk to recruiters. Ask questions. Be curious. Follow up. People remember effort—and when an opportunity comes up, they’ll remember you.
Big thank you to Ronyhel and the NABA speakers, Jada Johnson and Emmanuel Brou, for taking the time to speak with us. Their insights were a reminder that relationships keep doors open.
