Future CPAs + Students
Whether you’re already on the path to become a CPA or just exploring your options, this page is for you.
Your career starts here
MTCPA is Montana’s professional accounting association, supporting accounting students as they prepare for successful careers. Through scholarships, professional development, networking with CPAs, and real-world career guidance, we help students bridge the gap between the classroom and the profession.
Yes, becoming a CPA is challenging, but the rewards are huge. From networking events to scholarships — MTCPA has all the resources you need to get started.
Student Membership
Join MTCPA for free as a college sophomore or above, with membership lasting up to a year post-graduation. Student members enjoy specialized communications, free Annual Conference attendance, CPA Exam review discounts, scholarships at Montana universities, and free AICPA student affiliate membership.
What it takes to be a CPA
Okay, need a little more info on what it exactly takes to be a CPA? Check out details on colleges with accounting programs and earning the CPA designation.
Scholarships
Generously funded through contributions from members and private donors, each year MTCPA awards $1000s in scholarships to accounting majors at Montana universities. But you have to qualify to be considered — find out if you do.
Student Resources
MTCPA provides our community of future CPAs with the resources needed to excel and perform at the highest levels.
Student Board Representative
The MTCPA Student Board Representative serves as the voice of Montana’s accounting students on the Montana Society of CPAs (MTCPA) Board of Directors. This unique leadership opportunity allows one selected student to gain firsthand experience in professional governance, network with CPA leaders, and help shape the future of the accounting profession in Montana. This position must attend at least one board meeting between June and January of their term, as well as MTCPA's Annual Conference in June (alternating locations; travel expense stipend provided).
Abi Grotbo
Montana State University
MPAc Class of 2027
Term: 2026/27
Past Student Representatives
Dave Ritchey, Online Student - UNC Kenan-Flagler
Term: 2025/26
Riley Nielsen, Montana State University
Term: 2020/21
Berenise Esparza, University of Montana
Term: 2019/20
Sara Schlepp, Montana State University
Term: 2018/19
Amy Sexton, MSU-Billings
Term: 2017/18
Michelle McDowell, Montana State University
Term: 2016/17
Applications available starting February 2027
Campus Ambassador Program
The MTCPA Campus Ambassador Program is a leadership opportunity for Montana college students to promote the accounting profession and MTCPA on their campuses. Ambassadors serve as a bridge between MTCPA and their peers, helping to increase awareness of career opportunities, student resources, and the benefits of MTCPA student membership.
Applications must be received 10/31/26
2025-2026 Ambassadors
Brandi Ashford
University of Montana, Missoula
Class of 2026
Abi Grotbo
Montana State University, Bozeman
Class of 2026
Tristen Holt
Montana Tech, Butte
Class of 2026
Student News
Can AI Ruin Professional Education?
August 24, 2026
As we embrace AI for greater efficiency and accessibility, how do we ensure that it strengthens professional learning rather than inadvertently weakening the development of knowledge, judgment, and critical thinking?
Student Spotlight: From Montana to the Arctic — A VITA Experience to Remember
April 01, 2026
I am a senior accounting student at MSU and earlier this semester I had an incredible opportunity to travel to rural Alaskan villages to help prepare taxes. Here's my story.
Accounting vs. Finance: Which Major Is Right for You?
March 31, 2026
Choosing the right path depends on how you think, what motivates you, and what kind of stability and flexibility you want long term.
Oh, the Places You Can Go…CPA Edition
March 31, 2026
With commitment, curiosity and strategic decision-making, the possibilities with a career in accounting are truly endless.
Why MTCPA Membership Belongs on Your Resume (Yes, Even as a Student)
March 04, 2026
One simple but powerful way to stand out in a competitive job market? Add your membership in MTCPA to your resume.
When One Tough Class Makes You Question Accounting — Read This First
February 26, 2026
One difficult course does not determine your ability, your potential, or your future in the field.
6 CPA Exam Study Tips
January 29, 2026
Many candidates feel intimidated by the CPA Exam — this uncertainty may even deter some students from the CPA license itself. However, the Exam is something any qualified candidate can tackle with the right preparation.
Educating and Inspiring Students: The Power of Providing Perspective
January 29, 2026
With perspective, a student will gain a deeper appreciation for what they are learning as well as how the concepts being taught are used in the “real world.”
Montana State accounting students to offer free tax help starting Feb. 23
January 29, 2026
Accounting students from Montana State University’s Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship are offering free help preparing tax returns for MSU students and community members who made less than $60,000 last year.
CPA Exam Day Tips
January 01, 2026
These strategies address the practical elements of exam day performance: timing, logistics, mental preparation, and procedural compliance.