In a special episode, student Arpan Grewal asks questions future CPAs and business leaders need answered.
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Accounting ARC
With Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny Shimamoto
Introducing Special Guest Arpan Grewal
Center for Accounting Transformation
In an episode that flips the script, Accounting ARC features a fresh voice in business: Arpan Grewal, a high school junior and state officer for Indiana Business Professionals of America. In this inaugural episode of ARC: Student-led Conversations, Grewal takes on the role of interviewer, leading a discussion with Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Liz Mason, CPA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA—three industry leaders with diverse career paths in accounting.
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Grewal comes prepared with questions that high school and college students often ask when considering careers in business. The conversation covers the realities of the profession, the importance of career flexibility, and why accounting is anything but boring.
The biggest misconception about accounting? That it’s dull. Mason, CEO of High Rock Accounting, shatters that notion with her personal career journey.
“I started my career working on casinos, gambling, and even tax returns for legal prostitutes in Nevada,” Mason says. “People think accounting is just numbers, but it’s about understanding industries, solving problems, and making businesses work.”
Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation, emphasizes the deeper role accountants play in business success. “Accounting is about trust and ethics,” he says. “We help companies make decisions that impact the economy.”
One of the biggest takeaways from the conversation is the importance of adaptability. Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder and educator for TB Academy, shares how his career took unexpected turns.
“I thought I was going to be a managing partner at a CPA firm, but my career didn’t go as planned,” Patrick says. “Opportunities kept coming my way, and I learned to embrace them.”
Grewal asks the hosts what skills students should develop now. Shimamoto stresses ethics, continuous learning, and public service. Patrick adds, “Show up. Be curious. Ask questions—even the dumb ones.”
As a career and technical student organization (CTSO) leader, Grewal highlights how groups like FBLA and DECA prepare students for business careers. Both Patrick and Shimamoto participated in CTSOs in high school, crediting them for their early professional development.
“These organizations give you exposure to real-world business challenges,” Patrick says. “I even got to study the business of Disney World!”
The episode also introduces the Agents of Transformation campaign, an initiative showcasing accountants as industry superheroes. “This isn’t just another recruitment effort—it’s about breaking stereotypes,” says Shimamoto. Accounting professionals are encouraged to share their stories—and view others—at we.improvetheworld.net.
For Grewal, the episode reinforces a key message: Accounting is a critical and rewarding profession. “I don’t think many students realize the opportunities this field offers,” she says.
This episode is the first in the Student-led Conversation series. Once a month, thought leaders will be interviewed by high school or college students interested in the accounting profession. Motivated students who want to take the reigns and host their own show are encouraged to email agents@improvetheworld.net.
Top 10 Takeaways
- Accounting is a dynamic, exciting profession with opportunities in all industries.
- Ethics and trust are the backbone of the profession.
- Be open to career shifts and unexpected opportunities.
- Student organizations like FBLA, BPA, and DECA provide invaluable career insights.
- Accounting isn’t just spreadsheets—it’s about making business decisions.
- Asking questions (even dumb ones) is essential for success.
- There are many paths into accounting, not just college.
- Continuous learning is key in this profession.
- Diversity in accounting matters—age, background, and perspectives all add value.
- The Agents of Transformation campaign is changing how people see accountants.