Annually, Your Part-Time Controller, LLC (YPTC) attends and sponsors the NABA Inc. (National Association of Black Accountants) Convention and Expo. 2024 marks the first year that YPTC offered an additional $5,000 scholarship to a non-traditional student pursuing a future in the accounting and finance sector.

That student is Erica Quick, a 43-year-old rising senior at Virginia State University. Erica’s eligibility for the scholarship was based on several factors, including her active NABA membership, enrollment at an accredited university, and overall academic excellence.

Rather than simply finding someone who met a set of requirements, YPTC took a more holistic approach in sourcing a scholarship candidate. The firm not only wanted to further grow the accounting pipeline with emerging talent, but to also invest in the diversification of the entire field.  

“This investment underscores YPTC’s dedication to building inclusivity in the accounting and finance industry. We are so proud to award Erica with this scholarship given her dedication, diligence, and perseverance. I look forward to seeing what’s next as she continues her journey,” stated YPTC’s CEO, Jennifer Alleva. 

YPTC spoke with Erica about what’s motivated her in the pursuance of her degree, her experience with YPTC, and what she believes she’s moving toward post-graduation.

YPTC: Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Erica Quick: I grew up in the Boulevard Housing projects in East New York, Brooklyn. Early on, life was challenging. At eighteen, I became a parent to my wonderful daughter, who’s now 24. Being there for her has been my greatest joy and my proudest role.

I started in customer service and hospitality, working at a call center and then working multiple jobs to make ends meet.

The pandemic turned the hospitality industry upside down, and everything changed. I found myself employed at a popular meat packing plant. Realizing I hadn’t fully pursued my potential, I enrolled in classes at a local community college. Now, three years later, I’m attending Virginia State University, chasing my dreams.

This journey has shown me resilience, the power of education, and the importance of seizing opportunities. I’m determined to make the most of my time at Virginia State, not just for myself, but for my daughter’s future, too.

YPTC: What was your educational journey like?

EQ: In my younger years, my main focus was working and earning a paycheck. I was in survival mode, and taking care of my siblings was my top priority. However, the educational journey I’m on now has been truly amazing. I’m learning a lot and forming lifelong connections. Being around such inspiring people has been incredibly motivating for me.

YPTC: What were your initial aspirations, and what important steps did you take along the way to get to where you are today?

EQ: Originally, I wanted to broaden my career opportunities using my customer service experience. Unexpectedly, I discovered accounting and felt drawn to it after doing research and getting encouragement from my daughter. Taking a leap, I enrolled in classes with a determination to succeed. Each course provided essential skills and knowledge, helping me transition into accounting. My career aspirations have evolved into a passion for numbers and financial analysis. This journey—from exploring a new interest to thriving in a challenging field—is shaping me into the professional I desire to be, driven by dedication to my goals.

YPTC: Can you detail the scholarship process?

EQ: The scholarship application process was straightforward, involving two essays and my transcripts. I applied with encouragement from Kenali Battle, the program director for student engagement at NABA Inc. I feel incredibly grateful that the investors at YPTC chose me for their scholarship opportunity.

YPTC: What are your goals for the future?

EQ: My primary goal is to successfully finish my undergraduate degree. After that, I plan to take the CPA exam. Receiving this scholarship means I can afford the Becker CPA prep course, which is essential for my career aspirations, even though it’s quite expensive.

I really enjoy volunteering at the food bank and local shelters, and I hope to help non-profits with their accounting needs in the future. YPTC’s focus on working with non-profits aligns perfectly with my goals. Being noticed and chosen by such a supportive group is a great honor, and I’m incredibly grateful for their encouragement as I pursue my dreams.

To learn more about YPTC and our culture, click here.

Scholarship recipient Erica Quick poses with YPTC’s NABA conference team at the 2024 NABA Convention.