Marco Wan

Contact Marco

What did you study as an undergraduate, and what prompted you to pursue graduate study in accounting?

I pursued a double major in Accounting and Information Systems and a minor in Finance at my undergraduate institution in Hong Kong, where I only had the opportunity to take one Tax course focusing on the compliance side. Through working and networking with tax professionals, I identified knowledge gaps and areas of weakness that I wished to fill and improve, which led me to the MSA program.

What are your academic interests?

I love learning about everything related to tax (mostly the planning side), entrepreneurship, and UX design.

What courses are you most looking forward to in the M.S. in Accounting Program?

Always excited about Professor Harry Franks’s Tax Research class. I have always been a goal-oriented and future-focused learner, so I always try to align what I learn in the classroom with how to apply the same learning when I engage with my clients in the future. Professor Franks previously worked with large multinational companies to tackle some of the most complicated tax issues for 30 years. When he brings his wealth of experiences and wisdom to the classroom, it connects the dots for me each time.

What do you enjoy most about the M.S. in Accounting Program?

The people! One of the best things about this program is the small cohort. There are 37 of us this year (and 44 in the prior year), and I have had many opportunities to meet and get to know my peers personally over the past weeks. My peers are some of the smartest, kindest, and most compassionate people I have ever met. Also, the faculty and staff care about each of us, which shows when you engage with them.

What extracurricular activities are you involved with?

Outside the program and studying for the CPA exams, I go outdoors whenever possible. Recently, I have been involved in trail running, hiking, and kayaking. I also try to always be on the lookout for startup networking events/conferences.

What is your favorite restaurant, coffee shop, or place to visit in Charlottesville?

The Farmers Market next to the Downtown Mall is a fun Saturday morning activity to go with friends!