Commencement Spotlight: Ariana Woods

Commencement Spotlight: Ariana Woods, Bachelor of Science in Accounting 

Future Plans: Tax Associate, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC); Management Graduate Student, Northeastern University 

Ariana Woods, an Atlanta, Georgia native and first-generation college student, will graduate on December 9 from Albany State University (ASU) with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. This is her second degree from ASU, receiving an associate degree in business administration in Fall 2021. Ariana served as president of the Accounting Club and as a community service member of the National Council of Negro Women. A scholar committed to academic excellence, she made the Dean’s List in Spring 2023. While enrolled, she interned with the Internal Revenue Service and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Ariana is passionate about her family and strives for excellence to be a positive role model for her eight younger siblings. 

Ariana has accepted a position as a tax associate with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and has been accepted to Northeastern University to pursue a master’s degree in management. She also plans to take the Certified Public Accountant exam and learn more about audit accounting.  

 

Why did you choose ASU?  My great-aunt is an alumna of ASU, and hearing her talk about her experience made me choose ASU.  
 

What motivated you to learn more about your field? 
Hearing how accountants are in high demand and how you will be guaranteed a job after graduation motivated me to get into this field.  

What do you love most about your chosen profession?  
I love how much I get to travel for free in my profession. I also love learning how to help people in my community understand financial literacy.  
 

Who has made the most significant impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?  
Dr. Tracy Williams has motivated me ever since I met her. She stayed in contact with me throughout my summer internships and has given me much-needed advice and guidance.  

 

What advice would you give to other ASU students?  
Network and build relationships with your professors and advisors. They have experienced what we are currently dealing with. No one can give you better advice than someone who has previously been in your shoes. Also, look for internships. Even if you are not qualified, still apply yourself!  
 

What would you tell a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?  
ASU is one of the best business schools in the state of Georgia. I have interned with the IRS and gained valuable experience, whereas people who attend different schools do not have that same opportunity. I have received many scholarships just by being a student at ASU. I am graduating with not one, but two degrees with little to no debt. ASU is a wonderful school, and I am so glad I chose to earn both of my degrees from here.