Students Leave with Key Takeaways from 2025 Convention

More than 35 college students attended the 2025 NJCPA Convention & Expo on June 4 and gained career advice at the “Accounting for the Future” themed event. The students attend Caldwell University, Essex County College, Kean University, Middlesex College, New Jersey City University, Rider University, Rowan University, Rutgers University, Saint Peter’s University, Stockton University and William & Mary.  

Here are two reflections from Stockton University students Elizabeth Jafolla, an NJCPA student ambassador, and Stella Beliaeva: 

Elizabeth: It was a great experience filled with insightful speakers, valuable networking and fun memories.

Stella: Attending the 2025 NJCPA Convention & Expo was an unforgettable experience for me and many of my peers from Stockton University. We were fortunate to be among students and professionals from across the state who came together to learn, grow and connect. This event gave us more than a glimpse into the future of accounting; it helped us understand what it truly means to be part of this dynamic profession.

Lessons Learned

Elizabeth: Futurist and keynote Crystal Washington started the day off with inspirational advice on how professionals can stay prepared and adaptable in a rapidly changing world.

Stella: One of the most impactful sessions for us was led by Crystal Washington. Her talk, “Future-Proof Yourself: Innovate and Thrive in Times of Uncertainty,” encouraged us to think differently, not just about our careers, but also about how we navigate life. She made it clear that waiting around for someone else to tell us what to do or how to handle change is no longer an option. We must be proactive, take ownership of our growth, and be bold in how we adapt and respond. Her energy and insight helped many of us reframe our thinking. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by change, we left feeling empowered to meet it head-on, with action, strategy and confidence.

Elizabeth: Keynote John Garrett followed with a humorous and thoughtful talk about maintaining personal passions while building a successful career.

Stella: John Garrett’s presentation on the “human side of business” brought a refreshing reminder that we are more than just students preparing to be accountants. We are individuals with stories, creativity and interests that shape the kind of professionals we will become. He helped us see that our unique personalities are not distractions from our careers; they are assets that allow us to connect with others, communicate meaningfully and lead with authenticity.

Elizabeth: Within the breakout sessions, Nicole DeRosa, CPA, MAcc, director of tax at SKC & Co. CPAs LLC and brand ambassador for UWorld Accounting, opened with an amazing presentation on the importance of personal branding in today’s competitive environment.

Stella: Nicole DeRosa demonstrated the importance of taking control over how we present ourselves, both professionally and personally. The way she broke down the steps of identifying and building our brand helped us recognize how much influence we already have over how others perceive us. Many of us left her session with a new sense of direction and a plan to be more intentional in how we network and grow in this profession.

Elizabeth: Presenter Peter Olinto, CFA, JD, CPA (inactive), a UWorld instructor, ended our day with a lot of laughs and, more importantly, a lot of valuable information about studying and preparing for the CPA Exam.

Stella: Peter Olinto’s guidance on preparing for the CPA Exam was both informative and motivating. His detailed breakdown of exam sections, time management, and study strategies gave us a clearer path forward and helped us feel less intimidated by what lies ahead.

Key Takeaways

Elizabeth: Outside of the sessions, we had the opportunity to connect with emerging leaders and interact with a variety of vendor booths, all of which were welcoming and eager to support students exploring the accounting profession. A highlight of the convention was when a fellow Stockton student, Kevin Esposito, won a Ninja cooler in a raffle just in time for summer!

Overall, the NJCPA Convention provided a valuable blend of professional development, networking and fun experiences. I highly encourage any aspiring accountant or student still exploring career paths to attend this event in the future. It’s a fantastic way to learn, get inspired and connect with leaders in the field.

Stella: The lunch and networking sessions were just as valuable as the formal talks. Having the chance to sit and speak with industry professionals, ask questions and share experiences was incredibly inspiring. The Expo floor offered a first-hand look at how accounting touches nearly every industry and how modern tools and services are changing the way we work. It was a reminder that the profession is not only alive with opportunity, but also evolving, and we are being invited to shape that future.

All of this was made possible thanks to the people who believe in us. I want to sincerely thank Barry Palatnik, Ed.D, MBA, CPA, accounting program chair and associate professor of accounting at Stockton, for supporting and guiding us not only during this event but throughout our academic journeys. And a special thank you to Dan Barbera, CPA, CFO of Lydia Security Monitoring, for sponsoring us and helping to open this door. We are truly grateful for the chance to attend.

This convention was more than just a one-day event. It was an experience that gave us clarity, direction and inspiration. It showed us what we’re capable of becoming and reminded us of why we chose this path in the first place. We left Atlantic City more motivated than ever and already excited about the possibility of returning next year.

 

Mark your calendar for the 2026 NJCPA Convention & Expo: June 16-19 at the Borgata in Atlantic City.

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Elizabeth A. Jafolla Elizabeth Ann Jafolla is an accounting student at Stockton University and a student ambassador of the NJCPA. More content by Elizabeth A. Jafolla: How Should You Obtain the 30 Credits?

Stella Beliaeva Stella Beliaeva is a student at Stockton University and a student member of the NJCPA.