Why UC Davis MPAc Was My Smartest Move

Accounting wasn't on my radar when I started at UC Davis as an economics major. But sometimes the best paths are those you don't see coming.

Everything changed during my second year when Zoë Dybdahl, the associate director of the Master of Professional Accountancy program, visited my elementary accounting course.

The advantages and opportunities of the MPAc program that she shared caught my attention: an extensive alumni and recruiter network, an accelerated path to a master's degree and a 100% job placement rate. Still, I wasn't convinced—and this was my first accounting class.

Over the next year, I watched my fellow economics majors struggle to find opportunities after graduation. Meanwhile, I began taking more accounting courses and discovered that I enjoyed and excelled in the classes.

By the end of my second year as an undergraduate, I mapped out an ambitious plan: graduate a year early and apply to the UC Davis MPAc program.

Bootcamp Puts You to the Test

If you're wondering whether the UC Davis MPAc program throws you into the deep end, the answer is yes—but they give you everything you need to swim. The MPAc Career Builder Bootcamp, a four-day intensive held before classes begin, proved how the program is geared toward student success and preparing for a rewarding career.

Those four days were designed to transform us from incoming students into confident professionals ready to navigate both rigorous academics and competitive recruiting. It worked, though not without effort.

Learning About the Accounting Landscape

MPAc Career Builder Bootcamp brought in representatives from firms ranging from the Big Four to mid-sized and boutique practices. Each presentation revealed a different facet of the accounting world I'd never considered. 

• How are firms using AI?
• What's the CPA exam really like?
• Should you go into audit or tax?

As an accounting “newbie,” these sessions were invaluable for me. They transformed abstract career possibilities into concrete paths.

The logistics were thoughtful as well. Local restaurants catered breakfast and lunch, giving us a taste of Davis' food scene between sessions. We toured Gallagher Hall, our new academic home. Professors and staff gave personalized feedback on everything from our elevator pitches to our interview techniques. By day three of our orientation, I'd practiced my introduction so many times I could deliver it in my sleep—a skill that's already paid dividends. 

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Meet the Firms: Where It All Came Together

The bootcamp culminated in Meet the Firms, and this is where everything clicked. Picture this: three hours of networking with nearly 30 firms from across Northern California, all there to meet potential new hires who are in high demand.

I spoke with recruiters, managers and associates, learning about each firm's culture, client base and opportunities. These weren't superficial conversations—they were genuine connections. Many of the professionals I met that evening have since become resources in my job search, offering advice and opening doors I didn't know existed.

Coming from economics with a minimal accounting background, I initially worried whether I'd made the right choice. Bootcamp erased those doubts. It showed me not only that I belonged in this program but also that the support system—faculty, staff and the incredible network of professionals invested in our success—would be there every step of the way.

If you're considering the UC Davis MPAc program, especially if you're coming from a non-traditional background like I did, my advice is simple: Take the leap.

Yes, it's rigorous. Yes, bootcamp will challenge you. But you'll emerge with clarity about your career path, connections across the industry and the confidence that comes from knowing you can handle whatever comes next.

The proven track record of job placement rate Zoë Dybdahl highlighted in my undergraduate class? After experiencing bootcamp and seeing the resources invested in our cohort, I understand why every eligible graduate landed a job. I’m excited to share that I’ve accepted an offer to start as an assurance associate in BDO's San Francisco office after graduation next June.