Suffolk Reporter

Students from Stony Brook University's College of Business recently participated in the first-ever Accounting Case Competition. The event took place on November 8 and featured a complex business case designed to test both accounting skills and teamwork.

Participants, consisting of undergraduate and graduate students, were organized into five teams, each with an alumni advisor. Teams received the case on Monday and had four days to develop their analysis and recommendations, which they presented to a panel of judges on Friday.

The panel was composed of members from the Accounting Advisory Board (AAB), who have over 10 years of industry experience. Their role was crucial in challenging students with insightful questions that required quick thinking and enhanced their Q&A skills.

The competition centered around whether a large corporation should acquire a smaller company or start a similar operation independently. This scenario required participants to apply various accounting principles, including financial analysis and strategy development.

Ceci Feng, associate professor of accounting and director of the master's program in accounting and analytics, led the event. "I’m glad that we were able to create a platform where students could grow, showcase their talents, and connect with our community of alumni, AAB partners, and peers," said Feng.

Competitor Sean Winant expressed appreciation for working alongside professionals from firms like PwC and Ernst & Young. Ivan Lara from the winning team Auditing Avengers noted the valuable insights gained from working with alumni advisors. His team won first place along with a $1,000 prize and full scholarships for Becker CPA Exam Prep.

Danling Jiang emphasized how this competition aligns with the college's strategic plan aimed at student success. “This event showcases our commitment to supporting student growth through co-curricular activities,” said Jiang.

Nipur Shah appreciated the practical experience gained during the week-long event. Jason Dai highlighted how it offered a new perspective on collaboration that will benefit his future career.

Funding for the event came from BDO USA, Becker, Cerini & Associates, CohnReznick, KPMG, Protiviti, and PwC.