From Washington to the CPA: Isabell Simpson’s MSA Experience

Motivation to Apply & Overcoming Hesitations

When Isabell Simpson was considering MSA programs, she knew exactly what she needed: a place to complete her CPA-required credits and prepare for the exam—without sacrificing depth or community. But what she found at Notre Dame offered more than just a pathway to the CPA.

“I didn’t think I’d get in,” she admits. “But Mendoza was the only program where I felt like they actually saw me."

A Gonzaga undergrad with 128 credits already completed, Isabell was looking for a graduate program that aligned with her goals and values. Notre Dame’s MSA stood out immediately, not only for its academics but for how personally the program approached the admissions process.

“I felt like the application asked: Why do you want to use your talents for something bigger than yourself? And that’s a question I was ready to answer.”

Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges

Isabell came to Mendoza with a clear goal: becoming a CPA. But her journey quickly became about more than just passing an exam—it became about finding her voice.

“Notre Dame didn’t just prepare me for the CPA—it made me believe I could do it,” she says. “It gave me the study skills, the structure, and most of all, the confidence.”

That confidence didn’t come overnight. Public speaking, in particular, was something she actively worked to improve.

“I was intentional about stepping outside my comfort zone,” she shares. “I took Leadership Communication and Negotiations. By the end of the semester, I executed my final presentation seamlessly and with confidence.”

In building her communication skills, Isabell not only became a stronger candidate for the workplace—she began laying the foundation for a long-term dream: teaching.

“I’ve always loved tutoring and helping others. I want to give back by teaching accounting someday,” she says. “That’s the dream.”

Professional and Academic Growth

With the program’s flexible curriculum, Isabell shaped her academic experience to align closely with her professional goals. She concentrated in Tax Services and added a focus in Deal and Advisory, a combination that broadened her exposure across multiple sectors.

“Concentrating in Deal and Advisory allowed me to take classes typically reserved for audit students,” she says. “That exposure gave me a more well-rounded understanding of the profession and helped me see how tax connects with areas like real estate and mergers.”

“Because the MSA covers CPA topics so thoroughly, the exam felt like review—not brand-new information,” she explains. “But beyond the technical, the program helped me understand what kind of professional I want to be.”

Career Transformation and Networking

When Isabell arrived at Notre Dame, she didn’t have a job lined up. But she credits the MSA’s career programming—and a focused Meet the Firms event—with helping her find the right fit.

“The fact that Meet the Firms was just for MSA students made a huge difference,” she explains. “I was able to connect directly with a recruiter who understood my background and goals.”

That connection led to her full-time offer at EY. But for Isabell, the real value of the Notre Dame network is the lasting sense of support.

“There’s something different about the alumni here. They’re not just successful—they want you to succeed too.”

The Notre Dame Experience: A Community Like No Other

Moving from Washington to South Bend was a leap of faith, but Isabell found herself embraced by a cohort that felt like family.

“I’d never lived in the Midwest before, but I never felt alone. We studied together, celebrated each other’s wins, and showed up for each other,” she recalls.

From game-day tailgates to study marathons with her roommate Grace, Isabell found a balance of fun, focus, and deep connection.

“It’s a small program, so you really get to know everyone. That community gave me strength during the hard days—and made the good ones even better.”

Advice to Future Students

If she could offer advice to her past self—or to any prospective student considering the MSA—Isabell would keep it simple:

“If you’re nervous about taking the next step, I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. Notre Dame changed me. I grew in every way—academically, professionally, spiritually, and personally. The program gave me more than I ever expected.”

She adds: “This program gave me more than a degree. It gave me a vision for who I want to be—and the tools to get there."