In episode 81, I had the pleasure of speaking with Hillary Caplan Sefcik, CPA, an Assurance Manager at CohnReznick, who shared her inspiring journey from dreaming of being a TV news anchor to thriving in the world of public accounting. We covered everything from her unexpected pivot to accounting, her experience navigating internships in both private and public sectors, her candid CPA exam struggles, and the power of building lasting professional connections.
From Journalism to Accounting: A Career Pivot That Just Made Sense
Hillary’s path didn’t start in spreadsheets and financial statements—it started behind a news desk.
“I thought I was going to be a broadcast journalist. I interned at Channel 9 News in D.C.,” Hillary shared. “Then my dad encouraged me to try an accounting class in high school… and I loved it. Debits and credits just made sense.”
That one course changed her entire trajectory, leading her to study accounting at Boston University and eventually into public accounting.
Early Internships: The Value of Starting Small
Hillary got her first taste of real-world accounting at Salus Capital Partners, thanks to a chance connection she made while working as a campus tour guide.
“The CEO of Salus created the internship for me. That early hands-on exposure to AP, AR, and cash reconciliations really helped set the foundation,” she said.
Later, she joined Grant Thornton for a formal internship that transitioned into a full-time offer. She compared both experiences:
- Private accounting internship: More individualized and broad exposure to business operations.
- Public accounting internship: Structured, fast-paced, and collaborative with lots of learning through team projects.
“I wish I could’ve stayed an intern forever,” Hillary joked.
Public Accounting: Learning by Doing
Since joining CohnReznick nearly seven years ago, Hillary has focused on tech, life sciences, and manufacturing clients.
“Working in audit isn’t just numbers. You’re collaborating, writing memos, managing teams, and constantly learning new things.”
She described public accounting as both an apprenticeship and an MBA, offering diverse experiences across industries that helped shape her expertise.
The CPA Exam: No Easy Path, But Totally Worth It
Hillary was open about her CPA exam experience—she passed six exams to clear four sections.
“Whether you pass on the first try or the tenth, there’s nothing easy about it. It takes discipline and support.”
She emphasized how crucial it is to have mentors and a support system during the exam process. Hillary even launched a CPA Exam Study Community at CohnReznick to help others feel less isolated.
“Not everyone has a parent who understands the importance of the CPA like mine did. I want to be that support for others.”
Actionable Advice for Aspiring CPAs
If you’re starting your CPA journey, Hillary’s advice is spot-on:
- Start with an internship – It’s the best sneak peek into the profession.
- Build connections early – You never know which one will change your path.
- Treat CPA prep like a job – If possible, study before starting full-time work.
- Stay open to growth – Even if your path isn’t traditional, lean into where you thrive.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Hillary’s story is a perfect reminder that your background doesn’t define your future—your drive does. Her journey shows how passion, adaptability, and a solid network can lead to a fulfilling CPA career.
💌 If you’re on your own CPA journey, don’t go it alone. Join my monthly newsletter for tips, stories, and strategies to help you thrive in public accounting and beyond. Let’s master the CPA journey—together.