Janealle Miller ‘23, M’24 is obtaining her Master of Science in Accounting and Taxation with a Taxation track, after finishing her undergraduate studies as an accounting major last year – and she’s already received a job offer from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) starting this summer.
Janealle is very involved on campus as the President of Beta Alpha Psi, an honors organization for financial information students and professionals. “I am extremely honored to have served as a member, vice president, and, currently, president of this organization during my time at Barney,” she says. She also serves as a Barney ambassador and is Vice President of the Commuter Student Association.
An accounting tutor since her sophomore year, Janealle has been able to help her fellow students in all accounting courses, two math courses, and economics. “Each semester, working as a tutor and being able to review the material for accounting and related courses with students continues to ignite my love for accounting,” she says. “I think one of the best parts of being a tutor is when a student comes into the tutoring center confused about the material, and when we go through the material together, I see their eyes begin to light up and a confident head nod as they begin to grasp the information.”
Throughout her academic years, Janealle has been an active participant in the accounting department’s Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This season, she volunteered as a tax preparer for clients in the Greater Hartford area. She describes the VITA program as a dynamic, enriching experience: “My favorite aspect of VITA was all of the clients I served. Each had a unique and intriguing story, which I thoroughly enjoyed learning about. The client service and professional etiquette skills I've learned are invaluable as I prepare to start my accounting career.”
Janealle says being a Barney student has taught her “to constantly push myself and to stay curious. Barney taught me to never stop learning; I will constantly strive to study, improve, and be the best version of myself.” She says that Barney offers a unique blend of academic rigor, a supportive community, and a commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. She credits several mentors for helping her along her journey, especially Professor Jenna Tang, with whom she took two introductory accounting courses, an accounting major-related course, and a graduate class. “When I was interested in learning about forensic accounting and wanted to do an independent study, she excitedly agreed and became my instructor. She has helped me get through difficult situations over the last four years. When I didn't find hope in the prospects, she recognized greatness in me and encouraged me to persevere.”
Janealle completed two summer internships at PwC, in 2022 and 2023, and says they were nothing short of extraordinary. “Learning the fundamentals in the classroom is great, but applying what you've learned is entirely different. As an accounting student, the practical experience of interning allows me to gain a thorough understanding of accounting concepts.” She says the ability to work on client projects, as well as the collaborative nature of the job, were highlights.
After completing her internship, Janealle was thrilled to receive an offer to work full-time at PwC as a Tax Associate this summer after graduation. She intends to take the CPA examinations in the near future as well.
One piece of advice she would give to an incoming Barney student: time management is key. “Strategize about the time you will study, work, and engage in other activities. Don’t forget to relax, recoup, and then get back at it. You are one person, so treat yourself properly. You'll eventually discover your rhythm, and you'll be set.”
Janealle Miller ‘23, M’24, Barney School of BusinessStudents should enjoy their journey while pushing themselves. Over the past four years, I have learned that I enjoyed my journey more once I pushed myself outside my comfort zone. Many opportunities exist, so get out there and take advantage of them. Embrace every opportunity, challenge yourself, and let the journey shape you.