My Summer of Learning from the CPAs
by Kerry Maguire

My apprenticeship through Junior Achievement of Central New York internship with Green & Seifter CPAs has been a rewarding experience. Green & Seifter CPAs is an establishment with a professional environment and a friendly staff. I could tell that the people who work here enjoy it as much as I have.

When I arrived on my first day, I was not sure what to expect. I took the elevator to the ninth floor of One Lincoln Center downtown, (bordering Armory Square!) and entered the lobby of Green & Seifter CPAs. I was greeted by the receptionist, who then introduced me to Tammy Kiesa, the Marketing Coordinator, who would soon introduce me to the friendly faces of the office.

After the tour, we discussed what I would be working on, and I observed Tammy on the phone and in action for a little. We discussed that I would help with communications-related matters, because I will be commencing my college career in Syracuse University’s Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies this fall. I then went to work on my own researching different Internet and newspaper sites to advertise for Green & Seifter CPAs. It is important to publicize your company’s name if you want to attract business. One advertisement-related opportunity I capitalized on was a website suited specifically for posting articles. I was able to create an account and actually post some articles that Green & Seifter accountants have written.

In addition to helping on the technical side of things, I have been able to get a feel for how things operate regarding Certified Public Accounting. I have taken tours, and accompanied mailroom employees around downtown Syracuse to see how they handle important transactions regarding outgoing and incoming mail, and money. I have attended networking meetings with Tammy Kiesa, and sat in on actual business meetings with various Certified Public Accountants and Mr. Green himself. I have assisted in the time and billing department, helping to space-optimize numerous client files, and I have even helped out in the Green & Seifter law library, getting a feel for what Green & Seifter lawyers do daily.

I have genuinely enjoyed my time at Green & Seifter CPAs. I feel as if I have learned so much, gaining not just work experience, but real-world experience that I will be able to use for the rest of my life. I love what these people are about, although I am not sure yet if I want to become an accountant or a lawyer. I am definitely sure however, that I want to wield the ability to handle numbers like the accountants, argue like the lawyers, and establish contacts and market like Tammy Kiesa.