PepsiCo Internship Offers Insights into Global Business for Iona Accounting Major Kristin Furlong ’24
Kristin Furlong ’24 chose accounting for her undergraduate degree at Iona University because it offers a window into the world of business while specializing in a specific skill.
Over the summer, Furlong even had the opportunity to intern at PepsiCo, where she helped to prepare financial statements as an accounting control intern. She is preparing for her Certified Public Accountant exam and she plans on obtaining an MBA.
“I've truly developed my people skills at Iona and have made many great connections. My professors have been supportive throughout the years and want to see their students thrive, which is something I appreciate immensely,” said Furlong, of Yonkers. “I also have been able to explore other interests outside of academics through the many clubs Iona offers.”
Furlong currently serves as co-president of Beta Alpha Psi, the Nu Omicron chapter of the Accounting Honors Society. A Resident Assistant in Conese Hall, she also serves on the eboard of the Italian Club and she and her friends also just recently joined WIUR and started a radio show.
Furlong’s Iona experience helps to showcase the range of opportunities available for students to develop their academic, leadership and extracurricular interests.
We spoke with Furlong recently to learn more about her Iona journey. Please enjoy!
Name: Kristin Furlong
Graduation Year: 2024
Major: Accounting
Hometown: Yonkers
High School: Maria Regina High School
Why did you decide to attend Iona?
I decided to attend Iona because of the great business school and proximity to home. I also wanted to attend a small school.
What interests you most about your chosen course of study?
I like that accounting gives you the ability to understand business generally while also pursuing a specialized study. There are a variety of career paths that can be taken with an accounting degree.
What distinct advantages have you gained from your Iona experience?
I've truly developed my people skills at Iona and have made many great connections. My professors have been supportive throughout the years and want to see their students thrive, which is something I appreciate immensely. Iona has opportunities like career chats for professionals to come back and speak to our classes, which has been helpful to me in learning about my accounting career after Iona. I also have been able to explore other interests outside of academics through the many clubs Iona offers.
Have you interned anywhere? If so, what did you enjoy most about your internship?
This past summer, I interned at PepsiCo as an accounting control intern. I learned a lot from my internship, and I enjoyed applying my studies outside the classroom by helping to prepare financial statements.
Tell us about your plans. In what ways has Iona prepared you for the next step you will be taking?
I am planning on pursuing my MBA after graduation and beginning my preparation for the CPA exam. The plan is to become a CPA and work in public accounting for the beginning of my career. Iona has given me the knowledge I need to proceed on this route and mentors I can reach out to for advice.
What clubs, organizations or service projects are you involved with beyond the classroom?
I'm currently the co-president of Beta Alpha Psi, the Nu Omicron chapter. I belong to the Accounting Honors Society, where we focus on professional development and service. I'm also a second-year Resident Assistant, currently in Conese Hall. This is my second semester on the Italian Club eboard. I recently joined WIUR and started a radio show with friends.