Mia Morris
From competing in tax competitions in Montreal to visiting Wall Street through the Panther Immersion Program, sophomore Mia Morris is building a strong foundation for a successful career in accounting while giving back on campus and in the local community.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Tell me a bit about yourself.
Originally from Douglasville, Ga., I’m a sophomore in the Honors College majoring in accounting, with an intended minor in risk management and insurance. I’ve always liked math, and that’s what drew me to the field. I’m good with numbers and budgeting, and GSU’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business offers opportunities to get involved in the business industry.
Are you involved with any organizations on or off campus?
I am part of the National Association of Black Accountants. I recently became secretary and help coordinate meetings, communicate with partner firms and handle recruitment. I have enjoyed connecting students with professional opportunities and building relationships.
I have participated in the university’s Panthers on Wall Street program, through which I visited New York City to meet with accounting firms. I’m also involved in GSU’s Accounting and Tax Society and Circle K, where I serve as treasurer.
I’ve also found a wonderful group of friends through weekly Bible studies, and they have encouraged me to grow spiritually and personally.
What other programs have you participated in?
I completed an externship last spring. It was a virtual program through the platform Extern, where I worked with PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) on a nonprofit consulting project.
My team collaborated with a California-based nonprofit, Building Skills Partnership, to help improve employee literacy and community engagement. We developed recommendations for the organization, which helped me strengthen my teamwork and consulting skills.
What experience has been most impactful?
Volunteering at the Apex Museum. For a few months, I served as a tour guide and assisted the CEO with outreach efforts. The museum focuses on African American history, and I learned a lot about local history, including Georgia’s role in the Jim Crow era. That experience deepened my interest in Black history and helped me improve my communication and presentation skills.
Who motivates you the most?
The students I am surrounded by at Georgia State, especially those in the Robinson College of Business. They are ambitious and goal driven, and their energy motivates me to keep pushing forward.
I am also self-motivated. I like finding solutions through research and perseverance. My goal is to become a tax accountant, so I am always learning and staying curious.
Do you have a dream company you’d like to work for?
I would love to work for one of the Big Four accounting firms. Right now, I am interested in an Atlanta firm called Rödl & Partner. I know someone who works there, and I have been referred, so I am hopeful about getting an internship or possibly a full-time position.
You recently traveled to Montreal for a competition. Can you tell me about that?
This past August, I participated in a tax case competition with three other accounting majors. It was hosted by the Tax Executives Institute, a global organization that connects students, professionals and tax experts.
We spent the summer preparing for the case study, which focused on international tax policies. We competed against other universities, and it was an amazing experience. It was also my first time in Canada. We attended tax seminars, networked with professionals and presented our final project. It was a milestone for me and a big step toward my tax career.
What kind of impact do you hope to make in your community?
I want to inspire others to stay determined and not give up on their goals. I try to be resourceful and share any connections or knowledge I have instead of gatekeeping opportunities. I lead through respect, kindness and action, and I hope that inspires others to do the same.
