John L. Grove College of Business student Edward Barrett has been selected to receive a $15,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholars Program, a prestigious national award that recognizes high-achieving accounting students who demonstrate integrity, leadership and a strong commitment to the ethical standards of the accounting profession.
The PCAOB Scholars Program is a merit-based award funded through monetary penalties collected on behalf of the PCAOB. Each year, the organization selects a select number of eligible students across US institutions to receive $15,000 toward their education. The scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate accounting programs who maintain at least a 3.3 GPA and exhibit strong character and professionalism.
Barrett, an accounting and information systems and analytics major, was nominated by faculty members who admired his dedication to the field both in and out of the classroom. Barrett serves as the president of the Accounting Club on Ship’s campus, where he connects members to industry professionals and various learning opportunities.
Being named a PCAOB Scholar is meaningful to Barrett because it affirms his hard work and dedication to his professional goals.
Through these leadership roles, Barrett has helped strengthen the bridge between students and accounting firms, offering peers opportunities to network and learn about potential career paths. His involvement reflects the kind of engagement and initiative that the PCAOB seeks to honor.
The scholarship plays a pivotal role in helping Barrett reach his professional goals.
“I plan to use the PCAOB scholarship to pursue my MBA and to help pay for study materials for the CPA exams,” he explained.
Barett acknowledged that much of his success would not have been possible without the mentorship and encouragement that he has received from faculty within the College of Business. He credits professors Garrett, Kim, Tien and Susan Lee — the accounting and ISA secretary, for helping him reach academic excellence.
“They have shown me so much support and have helped me succeed in accounting. All of my accounting courses have challenged me to think critically about every problem,” Barrett shared.
Looking ahead, Barrett is focused on achieving his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation and building a long-term career in public accounting.
“My ultimate career goal is to become a CPA and a partner of a public accounting firm where I can provide professional services that will aid clients to succeed in their future,” he said.
Barrett’s selection as a PCAOB Scholar shows his commitment to academic excellence, professional achievement and underscores what students within the College of Business can accomplish both in and out of the classroom.
