August 15, 2022
Michaela Messing, a student in Oakland University’s Master of Accounting program, was recently selected to receive a $10,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB), a nonprofit corporation created by Congress to oversee audits of public companies.
The scholarship program supports outstanding students who are likely to become auditors, including students from populations that have been historically underrepresented in the accounting profession.
Messing is among 250 U.S. college students to be named a PCAOB Scholar and receive a scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year. To qualify for the award, students must meet several criteria, including demonstrating high ethical standards and possessing a GPA of at least 3.3, or being in the top third of their overall class.
“Receiving this scholarship means a great deal to me. I appreciate that the dedication and effort I have put forth throughout my college career is being recognized,” said Messing. “It further solidifies that all my hard work has truly paid off. I am incredibly grateful that the PCAOB has made such a generous investment in my future.”
Messing graduated from Oakland University last April with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and will use the scholarship to pursue her master’s degree at OU this fall. Donna Free, a special instructor in OU’s accounting program, nominated Messing for the award.
During her undergraduate years, Messing established a strong academic record and participated in the Oakland Accounting Students Information Society (OASIS), a campus organization that connects students with information and opportunities related to the accounting profession. She also served as treasurer of a student organization that raises awareness and financial support for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia survivors.
In the midst of these endeavors, Messing has also dealt with her own challenges. At the age of 19 months, she was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a congenital neurological disorder that affects a person’s movement, balance and posture.
“Walking independently is my main physical challenge,” Messing shared. “Navigating the long distances between buildings and the landscape of OU’s campus is not always an easy feat for me. I prefer to get around campus with my crutches and a backpack. But, when my books are too heavy, I need to use a walker.”
She added, “I have encountered some cognitive challenges as well. It typically takes me a little longer to process the new material presented in my math and science courses. It may take me twice as long to understand and complete homework assignments, projects and to study for tests. Despite these challenges, accounting continues to spark my interest, so all the extra time spent to master this subject is worth it.”
Messing credits Free for encouraging her to pursue a master’s degree in accounting at OU.
“I had the pleasure of being her student multiple times, and she mentioned frequently that Oakland has a remarkable master’s program. Her teaching has not only fueled, but strengthened, my passion for accounting,” said Messing. “Once I found out about the 150-credit hour requirement for the CPA exam, I thought pursuing a master’s degree in accounting was the best worthwhile way to meet the requirement. I am confident that both a master’s degree and a CPA license will give me a significant competitive edge when I am ready to search for a permanent job position.”
She continued, “I aspire to work for a reputable firm that is inclusive and accepting of all employees that have the qualifications to perform the job. I hope to be a key player in contributing to the success of that company. Lastly, I look forward to a rewarding career which will give me the financial stability to obtain my ultimate goal of living a life with complete independence.”
Along with being a master’s student, Messing will take another step toward achieving her goal when she interns with the Grant Thornton accounting firm this winter.
To learn more about programs and opportunities in OU’s School of Business Administration, visit oakland.edu/business.