Timothy Lin Wants Students Entering the Accounting Industry to be Open-Minded Explorers
Look all around in the world of accounting, and you’ll see that It’s a lot more than just doing taxes. Snap up some of Timothy’s adventuresome spirit, be inspired, and see where your career and life can take you!
Q. Tell us about your path leading up to today, Timothy. Where were you at? Where did you want to go?
A. “I had just started working in accounting, and wanted to get a better understanding of the industry. In addition to that, I knew I needed additional units to qualify to sit for the CPA exam.”
Q. Looking back at where you were when you started this journey, where did you think or hope it would lead you?
A. “When I was at UCR Extension earning the Professional Certificate in Accounting, my priority was to to qualify to sit for the CPA exam, and get a better understanding of accounting. I hoped that maybe it would lead me towards something bigger--and it did. I ended up getting a Master’s in Accounting and will be working for the “Big 4” later this year.”
Q. What professional achievements are you most proud of, and why?
A. “The two professional achievements I am most proud of right now are getting my Master’s in Accounting at Rice University in Houston, Texas, as well as obtaining my IRS Enrolled Agent license.”
Q. What career (or other) advice would you give to students or graduates looking to move into your industry?
A. “A lot of people entering the industry think that accounting is only tax. There is also auditing. Explore them both before deciding which side of accounting you want to enter. It is also ok not to have a formal background in accounting. If you are willing to learn, you will succeed in this industry.”
Q. What are you doing now?
A. “I am currently studying for the CPA exams, and will be an upcoming Business Tax Associate at KPMG LLP, in Los Angeles, California.”
Q. In your life today, what makes you really happy, Timothy?
A. “I have the wonderful opportunity to work for one of biggest firms in the industry. One of the most important parts in life is health. The saying “Health is Wealth” could not be truer. On my time off, I really enjoy being on the tennis court playing for hours at a time, or spending time in the company of friends and family.”
Q. Was there a person memorable to your experience at UCR University Extension?
A. “Instructor Derek Sloan made my experience very memorable. He knew accounting could be dry at times. He made his classes interesting and the subjects appealing using his own experiences. He was also hilarious, and always made the class laugh—which creates a relaxed and enjoyable learning environment. He was a great example of ‘keep learning, keep reaching.’”
It is always such a pleasure reconnecting with our students and seeing where life is taking them. Thanks, Timothy, for sharing your personal and professional successes. You inspire us and we can’t wait for you to pass your CPA Exams.
Timothy Lin, EA
Masters in Accounting
Rice University, Houston, TX
Graduate, UCR University Extension
Professional Certificate in Accounting