Top Priority ALPFA FIU Spr2011

TOP PRIORITY ALPFA Florida International University / Spring 2011

"We believe in developing you as a professional and

growing together as one family."

(From left to right): Consulting Officer: Ayman Al-Abdullah; Special Events Coordinator: Alfredo Reynoso; Webmaster: Antonio Benitez; Parliamentarian: Patrick Noel; President: Catherine Peña; Secretary: Eric Erdvig; Treasurer: Yasnay Montalvo;

Vice President of Finance: Arianna Monserrat; President-Elect: Paola Lacouture; Vice President of Accounting: David Ribera

Mission Statement:

Lourdes AbosaidDavid AcostaAyman Al-AbdullahGustavo AlgerStephanie AlvarezJessica AlvarezVicente AmengualLaura ArboledaDiana ArdilaEvelyn AvilaCamila BarrancoYosbel BarrancoJohanna BarrigaStephanie BasantaAntonio BenitezFranz BerdugoPaula BernalRodrigo BonvinFrank BrownMabel BuitragoKurt BulginNatalia CabanillasDaian CardonaAlexander CardonaKatherine CastroCarlos ChavezMendy ChowErnesto De CortadaAnabel De la RosaMaria DeknegtArmando Del CorralYoandry DelgadoMicaela Di LucaSteven DiazMarc DiazLisandra Diaz De Villa

Mario DurangoCarl EmilcarEric ErdvigDaniela EscarraMarcell FeijooFatima FernandezAndrea FranzoneVirginia FuentesEduardo FusteElsania GaleanoCarlos GarcellJustin GarciaJose GarciaJonathan GeorgeYamile GilFrank Ginebra-GroeroYasmany GonzalezJulian GonzalezStephanie GutierrezCarmen AdrianaHalabiAlyson HaywardStephanie HockeJohn HoyesMaria JaenShaun JohnstonEmilio KachlerMahreen KhanPaola LacoutureAli LakhaniMarie LangJohnson LeJessica Le TorrePatricia LebrunMegan LeeUrsula LeonPatricia Lopez

Andres LopezFelipe LopezJanette LopezMarco LopezYvette MartinezBayardo MedranoPeggy MejiaJennifer MendozaArianna MonserratYasnay MontalvoJose MortimerPatricia MouroCindy MuhinaChristine MuhinaTeddy NaboaYegor NadvornyyCristopher NewmanPatrickNoelLamont NowlinAngelmar OrtegaA. Arturo Pacheco-ParedesCalvin PaquetteCharmaine ParedesCatherine PeñaAnais PerezVirginia PerezSylvester PerezAnastasiya PiashkovaGrecia PiconZandra PuenteDarleen PulidoCarlos QuijanoJorge RamblaYan RanFernanda RandallTheresa Renaud

Alfredo ReynosoIvan RezvoyDavid RiberaLuis RinconJanet RodriguezStefany RodriguezAnny RodriguezAna Isis RodriguezWilliam RodriguezJoel RodriguezStephanie RodriguezJose RomeroYenia SainzJose SalazarAriel SalazarSveva SbarraJavier SerpaRebecca ShermanMaryia ShkaradzanakStephanie SixtoVictor TovarMelissa TrianaLuis TrinidadRoberto ValdesJavier ValdesQuy VanPiero VelardeJohana VillamizarArtem VolosPatrick WallerBryan WigginsJackie YimVivian YuAlexis ZaldivarKevin Zamora

ALPFA FIU Spring 2011 Members

Spring 2011 Executive Board Members

Executive Board Farewell Letter

Catherine Peña - President

Where do I begin? I have so many people and opportunities to be grateful for and not enough space to mention it all. First and foremost, I want to thank everyone who believed in me. Just a few words of confidence and encouragement

can make all the difference; it did for me. I stepped up for the challenge and it has been the most rewarding experience. I have grown as a student, professional, and as an individual. I could never express enough gratitude for everything ALPFA has offered me. Thank you to everyone who served on the board with me. Ayman “Casper” Al-

Abdullah: If it was not for your constant coaching, mentoring, and pushing me off the edge of the cliff, I would not have been able to soar and reach my true potential. You are incredibly successful in everything you do, and it is no surprise you have achieved greatness. Paola “PLaco” Lacouture: You are an incredibly talented young woman with passion and

determination. I believe in you and I know you can take this organization to the next level. You now have my shoes to fill, and I know that they will wear them with honor and pride. David “Mr. GQ” Ribera: You are an amazing person and

friend. I commend you on your success in executing the mock interview and keeping your professional cool throughout the whole process. I will never forget our memorable experience together. Arianna “Smiley Face”

Monserrat: thank you for all of your hard work this semester with our Finance sector of ALPFA. I am extremely proud of you; you began a legacy and made history. Your easy-going and cheery attitude helped remind us that there is a

rainbow after every rain shower. Keep working hard and I know you will be successful. Yasnay “Willy Wonka” Montalvo: I know how hard you have worked this semester. Working every fundraiser, maintaining our finances, and still managing a job and school is not easy. Yet

somehow you’ve been able to bring a level of professionalism to all of these responsibilities and helped ALPFA grow tremendously. Eric “Mr. Rubic’s Cube” Erdvig: Thank you for your tireless effort to help keep this organization functional. You did a phenomenal job with our community service projects and planning the ALPFA Regional Symposium. You are no longer the unsung hero; now, everyone knows how truly remarkable you are. Patrick “Chocolate Rain” Noel: It is hard to believe I have known you throughout my college career, beginning in ENC 1102. Your work may be behind the scenes, but it has always been accurate

and timely. You remind me to always stay grounded and humble. Thank you for always entertaining us with your musical selections and putting a smile on my face all the time. Antonio “The Stig” Benitez: You are such an amazing person that taught me to always be on time, despite being Cuban. I know you will achieve

greatness and land that perfect job. You are super smart and it is no wonder you passed the CPA exam in 3 months. Your work ethic is unmatched as you are always striving for perfection. Remember to always smile, keep your head up, and keep your BMW in mint condition. Alfredo “Iron Chef” Reynoso: Every party

was run with exacting precision and everyone had a great time. We will miss your Argentinean asado skills and you as our events coordinator. We can only hope next semester’s parties are half as fun. You are an incredible person that taught me many valuable life lessons: how to grill food on a mini barbeque; juggle a full-

time job, school, and a family; save money fixing up your home; how to play Catch Phrase and Angry Birds; and use an iPad2. Although the following did not officially serve on the board, I would like to recognize them for always supporting my every decision, offering me advice, and for being a great friend: Daniel

Zamora, Christopher Houseman, William Rodriguez, Stephanie Basanta, and Yosbel Barranco. I cannot thank everyone enough. I have made countless amounts of friendships that I know will last a lifetime. I will continue to serve our organization as much as I can; it is the least I can do after everything it has offered me. It

has been a humbling experience.

Paola Lacouture - President-ElectThis year I truly landed in the stars with the opportunities given to me as your President-Elect. Luckily, I

have the chance to be able to come back this next semester having learned much this last semester. This is not my farewell to you, the members, but an opportunity to once again reiterate my main objectives as I

will serve you: pushing for the recruitment of new members and to increase the innovation and the opportunities that ALPFA FIU brings its members. Once again, I will spearhead with the incoming

president-elect the very effective presentations to classes about this fantastic organization. My second goal would be to expand the finance portion of our organization, so that this may be the support that we all may go to, accounting and finance majors alike.  I thank all the officers I was able to grow with and grow from. I can perfectly define with a single word what each of you have taught me in this organization I love to call

"family.” Cathy, I won't let you down! It's impossible to describe how much I have learned this past semester thanks to you. Words can not describe how thankful and static I feel at this moment. I can't wait to fit those big shoes and increase  those standards to make ALPFA FIU bigger, better and stronger. With you I learned "responsibility." David and Alfredo, thanks for bringing a

smile to my face with the least of the intentions; you both taught me "fun.”  Yasnay, I have never seen a woman with such a strong commitment and dedication to ALPFA; I thank you for introducing me to "hardwork.” Patrick, your word represents who you are and what you stand for, "familia.” Eric, your hardwork and love for this organization made me realize that life itself its full of "sacrifices." Antonio, I admire you as a

friend and as an outstanding student; I look up to you to be as "dedicated" and studious as you are. Ariana, my sister, you have no idea of how proud I am of you: thanks for teaching me to trust myself and to never limit my dreams and thank you for always being there unconditionally

when I needed you the most; you taught me "self-confidence.” Ayman, your words of support have accompanied me in this amazing trip the life offers to me; you introduced me to "professionalism." Daniel Zamora, my coach, you have guided me with your wisest advices in this star I fell

in two semesters ago; you taught me that life is not about how hard you fall but how much you work for to stand up. You taught me "leadership.” Lastly, the members, ALPFA FIU is an amazing organization thanks to all and every single one of you.  I look forward to the next

semester and all the accomplishments I know we all will be succeeding in. 

My Farewell Letter

David Ribera - Vice President of Accounting

After this past semester, the main thing I want to say to everyone is “Thank You.” Given the privilege of serving on the board reassured me of the quality of members that we have. Many members went above and beyond and came through in times when others denied and I want to thank those for doing that. One thing I have learned is that possibilities are endless once

you set your mind to it. We are allotted many resources that when used and taken advantage of, we can excel and exceed at anything we set our minds to. We are faced with many

challenges and struggles, but together we can solve anything that arises. I believe we are truly an eccentric organization that portrays a family atmosphere better than any other on campus.

I personally have been able to count on members to be there for me in times of need and have found many people to turn to. This is the organization we are and I want to once again

thank each and every one of you for making this a truly unforgettable semester filled with many great memories. Thank you all and never look back for there are many challenges ahead.

Arianna Monserrat - Vice-President of Finance

I want to say thanks to my wonderful e-board for everything, as cheesy as that sounds. This semester has been great, fun, and hard work.  I have grown as a professional, challenged myself, and achieved many things that I didn't know I was capable of. Thank you all for

believing in me; it has been a roller coaster of events and emotions, but we have all manage to give it our all, support each other, and grow- as Patrick says - "La Familia.” I am thankful for every single one of you: Paola, Cathy, Antonio, Eric, David, Yasnay, Patrick, Alfredo, Ayman, Chris, Daniel, and every single ALPFA FIU member.  I want to say thank you because I know how much hard work we each have put into making this a great semester, and it has paid off.

We have started the meetings on time thanks to Antonio.   Alfredo is and always will be ALPFA's "Mr. Fun Guy." Thank you Paola for always being there - like a good neighbor.  I will give Yasnay's gift card magic trick to my QMB professor. Thank you Ayman for all your moral support.  Thanks to David's wise choice of words I can communicate to other cultures with no barriers. Thanks to Eric, I love Quizno’s more than ever. Thank you Cathy for

dictating, I mean leading, this wonderful e-board, challenging ourselves, and believing in all of us. I want to keep it short, but there are so many things that I want to say. I'm very proud and happy to be in ALPFA FIU, and given the opportunity to step up, and be on the e-board. I will never forget any of you- too many memories, nicknames, and inside jokes to count. Thank

you for all your help, support, and most importantly for believing in me. I love you all.

Yasnay Montalvo - Treasurer

I’m grateful of being part of ALPFA and will never regret embarking such a fantastic journey. The selection of your Treasurer for the Spring 2011 semester, provided me the opportunity to give back and offer you what I was offered as an active member. I appreciate you trusted

me in the election process and gave me the chance to apply my hard working, detailed-oriented, and entrepreneurship spirit. Team-work was the magic key to the success of our fundraising efforts, and I truly appreciate your participation in the raffles, car washes, can-

shakings, bake sales, chocolate/candy sales; am I missing anything? Excuse me if at some point I overwhelmed you with so many fundraisings events, but I’m sure you had fun and it will

make the difference in the amount of students we are taking to the ALPFA National Convention this year. I have set a higher fundraising target for the upcoming Treasurers, but it

can be done if you are passionate about it. Thanks for the support of the members, e-board, professionals, and sponsors who continue making a positive impact in the success of ALPFA FIU. I truly appreciate the honor to serve you as Treasurer this

semester, but I’m not going anywhere. I will continue being involved and giving back to my ALPFA family!

My Farewell Letter

Patrick Noel - ParliamentarianI can truly say that this semester has been one of the most memorable in regards to my college journey. Anyone can vouch for me when I say ALPFA is “la familia” and that it is. I’ve experienced the troubles and the rewards, and all have compiled to better myself today. Catherine pushed me the most, and I thank her for that, because it allowed me to take my mistakes of discrepancies with the database and what not and utilize it as a driving force to propel myself forward, and to not settle for 100%, but to

achieve 120%. I’ve developed a personal relationship with all my fellow E-Board Members, and I believe that we as a team achieved our overall goal to bring ALPFA FIU to the next level. As Parliamentarian, I

loved every aspect of the position: Excel, friends, and achieving my goals in recreating the ALPFA Database and Points System in a way that the System only requires the swipe of a Panther ID Card, and voila, like magic, all the information is automatically inputted. My farewell letter doesn’t end here though,

because although I will not be on the E-Board next semester, a title or a position is not needed to make a difference, and I challenge and encourage all our current and future members to represent and actively engage within ALPFA. I thank you all

for the opportunity to serve as your Spring 2011 Parliamentarian.

Eric Erdvig - Secretary When I signed up to run for Secretary, I knew I was in for a new experience. I knew it wouldn’t always

be easy, I knew there would be challenges for me to face. While all of this proved to be true, what I wasn’t prepared for was the magnitude of it all. I honestly think this is the first time I’ve been able to just

sit down and say a few words to the members of ALPFA FIU and really think back on the whole experience, and it is quite difficult to wrap my head around it all. When I made my speech at the end of the Fall 2010 semester, I spoke of how much ALPFA FIU had impacted my life, and how much I wanted to show ALPFA FIU my commitment in return. What I quickly realized is that, for every ounce of energy I poured into this organization, I got it back ten-fold. I have met more people this one semester than I

believe I have met in the previous two and a half decades of my life. I’ve organized events and fed hundreds at a time, and yet, if it were not for the dedication of you, the members, none of that would

have happened. I know what it is to work hard: on any given day in my old jobs I was under the gun to haul literal tons of material from trucks to shelves and storage, from shelves and storage to customers’ hands; but just working hard isn’t enough, as I’ve discovered this semester.

Getting others to work with you and to enjoy it alongside one’s brothers and sisters is what makes the difference. I went from moving items by the ton to knowing that we, the ALPFA FIU family, can move entire mountains together. I wouldn’t even think of pretending that anything that happened in ALPFA FIU happened solely by the fruits of my own labor; it was everyone pitching in and working hard in unanimity that

allowed us the capacity for what we have done. Regardless of what may happen at the upcoming National Convention, I know in my heart that our chapter really is the best ALPFA chapter this country has to offer, and this does not happen because of any single officer or any single member, but by all of us pouring our hearts into everything this organization stands for. As I step down to make room for other potential leaders to make their personalized mark on this organization, I know I’m going to miss it. Regardless of the fact that it wasn’t always the

easiest job in the world, and regardless of the fact that I did have my own personal struggles at times, I will still look back on this as one of the best semesters of my entire time here at FIU. I will always try to be there to support my chapter, and I hope to see its members continue to

carry on the excellence for which it stands.

Antonio Benitez - Webmaster

I cannot fathom how quickly time has passed by; it seemed like yesterday my peers had just elected me as the new ALPFA FIU Webmaster for the spring 2011 semester. I embraced my new role with enthusiasm

and excitement as I embarked on this journey into unchartered territory. Furthermore, this journey would serve as my next challenge, to push myself to new heights that I have never been to before, while at the same time giving back to this organization that has been so fond and loving to me. Now the time has

come to step down and relinquish my role. This organization, ever since joining it during the Spring 2009 semester, has completely changed who I am. I have learned everything that I know now through this

organization: from resume to interviews and communications. I have learned it all thanks to this organization that I call my family. I would like to take this time to say thank you to my family and friends

who have supported and pushed me to be a better individual and professional; without you I could not have achieved what I accomplished. I have given this organization and its members all that I could and it would not be possible without you. Now

my focus shifts to finish writing this chapter that has been in the making for five long years: from getting my high school diploma, to graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Accounting degree, and passing the CPA exam in a scant 3 months. Shortly it will all come full circle; at the end of June, when I finish my Masters of Accounting degree, I will make the transition from being a student to becoming a

professional. Thank you ALPFA FIU.

My Farewell Letter

Alfredo Reynoso - Special Events Coordinator

The time to say goodbye has come; in reality we can just say see you later. I have enjoyed every single moment of being part of this E-board. I can say that the reason the E-board has looked as good as it has its because of the quality of members ALPFA FIU has. It has been a great pleasure serving on the board and specially serving the best meat any of you has ever

eaten. I hope you guys enjoyed every single moment of this semester as I have. Thanks to the entire E-board for the moments of laughter, joy, excitement, and success that we’ve had this semester. After this I can truly reassure anyone that anything is possible if you have the right mindset. The sky is the limit for any of you, believe in yourself and I can assure you will be successful. Thanks to the entire E-board for your dedication and every moment we had

together of joy and success. Special thanks to Cathy for the dedication shown, the hard work and passion exhibited everyday; I know that the success you have experienced is just minimal to what is about to come. I confess that many moments I didn’t

think I was able to do all things asked from me: from working full-time, graduate school, ALPFA FIU, and my wife (another full-time job), but at the end with the help of everyone it seems that everything is possible when you have the right mindset. Thank you all for your help during this time and expect me to help next semester; maybe even cook an Argentine style asado (BBQ). I cannot thank everyone enough; I have made countless amounts of friendships that I know will last a lifetime. I will continue to

serve our organization as much as I can; it is the least I can do after everything it has offered me. It has been a humbling experience.

Ayman Al-Abdullah - Consulting Officer

As my undergraduate career in ALPFA comes to a close, what I remember the most are the relationships I have developed. I am truly blessed to have joined this organization and to meet so many wonderful people. When I first joined, the culture of “Family” was mentioned, but it wasn’t until I was fully immersed did I truly understand how strong our bonds could become.

Looking back I am confident I have made many true and lasting friends. Giving me the mentorship I needed to launch a career, ALPFA FIU has asked nothing more from me than to pay it forward to the incoming members. Although I strived to have accomplished this goal during my term as Presidency and eventually as Consulting Officer, I know my work is not

done, and I look forward to continue to strengthen this organization that I hold dear to my heart. To my friends in ALPFA FIU: thank you for making this journey so sweet. To FIU, I want to thank you for taking a chance on me and allow me to pursue a better life for me and my

family. I could not have asked for a more professional, engaging, and challenging education than what I received here at FIU. The faculty truly cares about their students and refuse to accept anything less than the best from us. As I go off into my professional career, I will be sure to represent FIU with the highest honor and hope to give back the tremendous gift it has given me. From my friends in ALPFA and BAP, the faculty, students, and staff at FIU, the professionals that dedicate their time to improve FIU and the South Florida community, every person I have met in my undergraduate career has left an impact on me. I know this supposed to be a “Farewell Letter,” but I don’t think the future would be as

bright without you. I thank you all for your friendship, and I look forward to our continued success. Together.

Semester Events

Ahead of the GameOn January 28th, ALPFA FIU members got the opportunity to attend Ahead of the Game: Accounting & Business Expo. At the

event, members were exposed to 22 companies, which included Gold Sponsors Bank of America and Deloitte; and

Silver Sponsors Progressive, Watson Laboratories, and MBAF. Members had the opportunity to network with professionals in

two sessions: 4:00 - 5:45pm and 6:00 - 7:45pm.

The event was a success, as over 200 students attended! Thank you to our President-Elect, Paola Lacouture, all the volunteers,

sponsors, and students who make the event phenomenal.

Finance SummitOn February 24th, 2011, ALPFA FIU hosted its bi-annual Finance

Summit. The event started with a networking session where students got the opportunity to network with professionals as

well as other FIU students.

Overall, the event was a great success, as turn out to be an informational, fun and entertaining event with over 100 students attending. On behalf of ALPFA FIU, we would like to say thank

you to everyone that participated and helped in the event.

QuickBooks WorkshopOn Saturday March 5h, 2011, ALPFA FIU hosted its QuickBooks

Workshop of the Spring 2011 semester. Students got the opportunity to learn the in’s and out’s of a program that is used by approximately 85% of small businesses in the United States! Our instructor was Julian J. Cecio, CPA, the CFO for Island Sky

Corporation. Mr. Cecio taught attendees many aspects of QuickBooks.

It was a great turn out, with over 30 students attending. On behalf of ALPFA FIU, we would like to say thank you to everyone that

participated and helped in the event.

Semester EventsALPFA Regional Symposium

On March 26, 2011,  ALPFA National hosted the 2011 Regional Symposiums. The event was held at the Stentson Law College, in Tampa, FL. FIU had the most members present from

all of the different universities which attended.

The symposium offered participants with many opportunities to enrich their careers; those opportunities include workshops, a Q&A panel discussion, a lecture featuring keynote speaker

Kathy Kringer, and a career fair. Overall, our members who attended said they truly benefited from the Symposium and feel even more confident about entering the job market.

Dan Black EventSince the beginning of the Spring 2011 semester, we have anticipated the arrival of our signature event;

Ernst & Young's Dan Black. Mr. Black is the firm's America's Director of Campus Recruiting and has been in his role for 17 years. He is responsible to hiring interns and full-time candidates in North America, South America, and Israel. Black has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a Master's degree in Human Resources,

and is a licensed CPA. He began with the firm as an associate in the Audit practice and after a year he was asked to go into a temporary recruiting project.

               We had a phenomenal turn out at the event, with over 100 students, faculty, staff, E&Y associates, managers, and partners. Together with ALPFA FIU, we invited FIU BAP, UM ALPFA, and UM BAP students, as

well as FIU College of Business students. Black presented about the four "D's" of business industry: Demeanor, Dining, Drinking, and Digital Media. He presented each "D" topic with many facts, scenarios,

tips, and jokes. Dan kept the audience engaged with his humor and past experiences. Overall, many students were pleased beyond their expectations. We hope to host Mr. Black in the future once again.

Firm MeetingsPrudential - Friday, January 21st, 2011

Robert Ruiz is a Manager in Financial Services for Prudential. Prudential is a very well-known and successful

insurance company that will help people secure their wealth for retirement. Mr. Ruiz talked about professional

development, Prudential, his work and daily duties, job opportunities, recruitment skills and tips,

and other very interesting topics.

PricewaterhouseCoopersFriday, January 21st, 2011

PwC, led by Robert Conrad, began their presentation by challenging members to a “Winter Trivia Challenge.” Following the challenge,

insight into the firm was given, which included available opportunities for freshmen, sophomore, junior, seniors, and even graduate students. PwC also showcased their new logo as well during the presentation.

Wachovia - Friday, February 4th, 2011We had three speakers from Wachovia to talk to students about the different job tasks and daily activities that each one of them do. Overall it was a very informative meeting as students didn’t know the difference

between a financial analyst, advisor, representative, personal banker, and so on. Members also had the opportunity to network with these speakers following the presentation.

Deloitte - Friday, February 4th, 2011During Deloitte’s presentation, various professionals were

available, from Tax Partner Geoffrey Horst to recent interns, which included ALPFA FUI’s own Ali Vayani and Teresa Hernandez. During the presentation, a brief introduction was given that discussed the

company’s history, services offered, available positions with the firm, and Deloitte University, a new state of the art learning center.

McGladrey - Friday, February 11th, 2011Led by Brett Friedman, McGladrey began their presentation by having members play a game of scrabble. After the game, a brief

synopsis of the firm was given followed by great suggestions for our members: from attire to proper etiquette in various situations,

members learned how to project a positive image to firms. Afterwards, the various McGladrey professional at hand were

available to answer any and all questions.

Firm Meetings

Mass Mutual - Friday, February 18th, 2011Albert Gutierrez from Mass Mutual Financial Group talked

about the importance of networking and how it can open many doors for you. He also told members many personal life stories regarding how Mass Mutual focuses on helping others, what his daily job day was, how important is teamwork, and mentioned

job and scholarship opportunities for students.

KPMG - Friday, February 18th, 2011KPMG presented to members the ethical aspects that they will face in the job and KPMG’s ethical standards, which far exceed

those that are mandated by regulatory agencies such as the SEC and PCAOB. Furthermore, KPMG introduce their CASE2

concept, a unique way to look at ethical issues. Members where then challenged to 4 ethical scenarios to see their likely response.

Goldman Sachs - Friday, February 25th, 2011Armando Acosta, an ALPFA Miami member, presented for

Goldman Sachs. Armando made a very interesting and informational presentation: he talked about his daily job task in

Goldman Sachs, as well as important tips on how to get ahead in your career path. Furthermore, he talked about how to build

that trust with future clients, and the importance of networking.

BDO - Friday, February 25th, 2011Led by Stanislav Jansta, members were treated to a

presentation that gave great suggestions and also what to expect during their first years in an Accounting firm.

Additionally, members were informed of BDO’s team for Walk for Autism, a charity event made to increase awareness of

autism spectrum disorders.

Firm Meetings

Bank Atlantic - Friday, March 4th, 2011Julio Llanes and Jonathan Rodrigues, both Vice President Market Managers from Bank Atlantic, came to present. They talked to

members about the importance of networking, how to stand out and sell yourself, involvement, daily job routine, and so many other

vital information that will help anyone succeed in their career.

Cherry, Bekaert, & HollandFriday, March 4th, 2011

Those members present at the CB&H presentation were treated to an introduction of the firm, which included the

services that they provide, the industries that they specialize in, and their relationship with Baker Tilly International. Afterwards,

members got a chance to have some fun in a friendly competition of family feud, which tested with questions related

to CB&H and real world events.

Alvarez & MarsalFriday, March 11th, 2011

Following our General Meeting, the presenting firm this week was Alvarez & Marsal (A&M). A&M was founded in

1983 and is a leading provider of turnaround & restructuring, performance improvement, transaction advisory, dispute analysis & forensics, and tax advisory

services. Two representatives were at hand to introduce A&M to our members; the introduction consisted of the

early beginnings of A&M, how the firm grew, its global presence, and insight into two of their main practices: the restructuring and tax advisory services. Afterwards, the

two representatives were available to answer any and all questions.

Procter & Gamble - Thursday, March 24th, 2011 ALPFA FIU hosted Procter and Gamble with Nancy Mir, an FIU alumni as a speaker, and Rosa Diaz. Driven by passionate people and a common purpose, P&G brings beloved brands to consumers around the world

—including their 50 Leadership Brands that are among the world’s most well known household names. They talked to our members about the company, how it stands out, its location, its market, its products, and

its job opportunities they offer.

Firm MeetingsGeorgia Pacific - Friday, March 25th, 2011

This past Friday, ALPFA FIU hosted Georgia Pacific. Presenting for GP was Felix Jimenez, a past ALPFA FIU

e-board member, and two more representatives. Headquartered at Atlanta, Georgia-Pacific is one of the world's leading manufacturers and marketers of tissue, packaging, paper, pulp, and building products and related

chemicals. They talked to our members about the company, locations, its variety of product, and how they are

the largest private company. They also mentioned their great job opportunities to students and how to apply.

Check out their website for more information.

Crowe Horwath - Friday, March 25th, 2011Members were treated to an overview of the firm, from its

early beginnings, services offered, industry specialization, their ideology and vision, their relationship with Crowe

Horwath International, and much more. Various representatives where available, including audit partner Justin

Stone and current intern Daniel Zamora. Following the presentation was a Q&A session.

Kaufman RossinFriday, April 1st, 2011

Kaufman Rossin presented “Social Media 101 for Accounting Students.” The presentation, lead by Aubrey Swanson, showed how social media has impacted and

continues to impact the world today. Additionally, Aubrey gave great suggestions regarding the most popular social

media websites: Linked-in, Facebook, and Twitter. Following the presentation, members got the opportunity

to ask any questions that they had.

Bank of AmericaFriday, April 8th, 2011

Led by Steven Monaco and Heather Lasher, members gained great insight regarding Bank of America, which include information regarding the seven segments that

make up BAC and their sheer size. Additionally, members were informed of potential career paths with

BAC. Following the presentation members had the opportunity to ask questions.

Community Service

Camillus HouseALPFA FIU members pulled through in a big way. Hundreds of dollars of supplies were brought in by our members. Trash bags full of clothes and flower boxes overfilled with food had to be carried by a team of members just to get it transported to Camillus House. It was truly a spectacular sight. By the time we were done volunteering, it was easy

enough to see that everyone felt good about that evening. We connected even more as an ALPFA FIU family, and walked away much

more grounded than when we had walked in.

Autism Speaks with BDOThis event was all kinds of fun and it was all for a good

cause. This event was designed to raise funds and awareness for Autism, a disorder that affects 1 out of 110

children. Some people kept walking after that first lap, others enjoyed the great weather, and many mingled and entertained themselves with footballs and frisbees. The

entire event felt like a corporate picnic blown up to epic proportions. Unfortunately, as many events of this type

have a tendency of doing, it ended all too soon, and I am left looking forward to the next time we have the opportunity to walk with BDO at Autism Speaks.

Relay for LifeWe are proud that ALPFA FIU could at least provide a small part of what is a huge event that officially kicked off the Relay for Life 2011 season. We raised well over $1,100 for the ACS in their fight against cancer, and the event raised over $85,000 overall. Our successes were ultimately due to the many ALPFA FIU members who came out from set-up to the late hours of the night to

show their support. We had dozens of people come and contribute their efforts. Again and again, the members of

ALPFA FIU amaze in their ability to come together and show support in force.

Community Service

FICPA 1040K WalkOn Friday, April 15th, ALPFA FIU members had the opportunity to exchange their suits and dress shoes for shorts and running shoes and join the FICPA to help say goodbye to the 2011 busy season! Held at Miami City Hall, members go the opportunity to help runners by cheering them on, selling raffle tickets,

and supplying refreshments. Furthermore, ALPFA FIU was well represented in the walk itself, as Stephanie Basanta, Grecia Picon, Cris Newman, Arianna Monserrat, and Stephanie Rodriguez all

participated. Overall, it was a fun and entertaining day.

Ronald McDonald HouseMembers of ALPFA FIU were honored to help serve and prepare lunch this past Sunday April 3,

2011 at the Ronald MacDonald house in Miami. The volunteers arrived promptly at 10 a.m. bringing with them not only the desired to help but also the food that was going to be served for lunch. The

lunch consisted of burgers, hotdogs, chips, juices, and a colorful salad. For desserts, the students brought a variety of candies. Volunteers had the opportunity to interact with some of the residents

and hear some of the survival stories. The volunteers agreed that it was a great experience worth doing again.

Fundraising Events

Miami Heat Ticket RaffleThe winner got 2 exclusive tickets at the American Airlines Arena (100 level) and $40 cash to cover food and parking

expenses to watch the Miami Heat take on the Sacramento Kings.

Car Wash and PanhandlingMembers got the opportunity to have fun and network with one another, while fundraising via a combination of pre-sale tickets, car washing, and panhandling during the

date of the event. A win-win situation!

Chocolate, Candy, and Bake SalesALPFA FIU members get a box with a variety of

chocolates and candies and sell them to their classmates, friends, and family members.

iPad 2 RaffleOne lucky winner will get their hands on the brand new thinner, lighter, and faster iPad 2, announced on March 11 and in

stores now!

The iPad 2 also features FaceTime capabilities, smart covers, and a new

10-hour battery.

*All fundraised amounts will be used to help send our members to the ALPFA National Convention!

Socials

Back-to-School Bash! “Pool Extravaganza”

Our first social this semester was great. Members had the opportunity to expand their social network and meet

some of ALPFA’’s members at a more personal level. Over 45 members attended. There were competitive yet fun pool games all night long. Pictures of the event can be

found on the website (www.alpfafiu.org).

Mid-Semester Social “Celebrating Our Cultures”

Our second social of this semester was amazing. Members got to try the best steak in town prepared by our very own “Iron-Chef” Alfredo Reynoso (Special Event Coordinator). Members had the

opportunity of share a part of their country's culture with traditional dishes from their countries. It was an amazing cookout

and the members loved every available. There were over 40 members enjoying the networking and food.

Sport’s Day

Sport’s day was a day where members had a good time as we showed our softball skills against professionals from

Prudential. Afterwards, members had a chance to network with one another as burgers and hot dogs were on the grill.

Overall it was an amazing day.

Fall 2011 E-Board & Scholarship Winners

ALPFA FIU AwardsBest Member: Carlos Garcell

Excellent Members: Stephanie Basanta and Carlos ChavezOutstanding Members: Marie Lang, David Acosta, and Elsania Galeano

Most Supportive Professional: Gene FalconMost Supportive Faculty: Tessie Brunken

Most Supportive Accounting Firm: PwCMost Supportive Finance Firm: Prudential

Congratulations!On behalf of ALPFA FIU and its members, we would like to congratulate all our members who are

graduating this Spring 2011 and Summer 2011. After all your hard work and dedication, you have reached the point for which we all strive. We wish you all the best in all your future endeavors, and

we hope that you will continue your involvement with ALPFA so that future members will benefit from your valuable experience.

Special Events Coordinator: Andres Lopez Parliamentarian: Javier Valdez Treasurer: Camila Barranco

Vice-President of Finance: Artem Volos President-Elect: Kevin Zamora

President: Paola LacoutureVice-President of Accounting: Maryia Shkaradzenak

Secretary: Natalia CabanillasWebmaster: Carlos Quinajo

Consulting Officer: Catherine Peña

(From Left to Right)