Choosing UC Davis Over NYU: Why the MPAc Program Felt Like Home
Scholarship recipient Aliana Hernandez shares why she chose the UC Davis MPAc program
After earning her bachelor’s degree in economics from UC Davis, Double Aggie Aliana Hernandez faced a major decision: Leave Davis for New York or continue her education at the university she already called home.
After being admitted to both the UC Davis Graduate School of Management Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAc) program and New York University, the first-generation college graduate chose to stay in Davis because of the community she had already found, the mentors who invested in her and the confidence she gained through those relationships.
That decision was later affirmed when MPAc Academic Executive Director Janie Chang nominated Hernandez for the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholars Program. Hernandez was selected as a 2026 PCAOB Scholar, becoming the fourth consecutive UC Davis MPAc student to receive the prestigious recognition.
As she prepares to begin the nine-month program, Hernandez reflects on the people, experiences and opportunities that made UC Davis feel like home.
Editor's note: The following interview has been edited for length and clarity and approved by the interviewee.
Building Connections Before the First Day of Class
How did your interactions with MPAc Academic Executive Director Janie Chang and current students influence your decision to pursue the UC Davis MPAc program?
I first met Janie Chang when she visited one of my undergraduate accounting classes to talk about the MPAc program. After her presentation, I introduced myself, and that was our first interaction. Later, I attended a Graduate School of Management meet-and-greet, where we had the chance to connect again.
I also got to know current MPAc students, including ambassadors Mia Hildebrand and Chris Ngan, who were teaching assistants in my accounting courses. They were always willing to answer my questions, share their experiences and give me an honest picture of what to expect. Having those conversations made the program feel approachable and helped me feel confident that I was making the right decision.
Finding the Right Fit
You were admitted to other graduate programs, including New York University. Why did you ultimately choose the UC Davis MPAc program?
There were several reasons. I really liked the nine-month program and the cohort-based format because I thrive in smaller groups where I feel comfortable asking questions and getting to know my classmates.
After transferring from a commuter community college, where it was difficult to meet people, I found UC Davis to be incredibly social and welcoming. I made close friends, became more confident and felt like I came out of my shell.
When I visited the Graduate School of Management, every event felt welcoming. Even networking events, which usually make me nervous, felt easy because everyone was so approachable. That experience made my decision feel natural, and I knew UC Davis was the right place for me.
A Scholarship That Confirmed I Was on the Right Path
As a first-generation college student, what does being selected as the 2026 PCAOB Scholar represent in your journey?
Being nominated felt like my hard work was paying off. After transferring from community college to UC Davis, I sometimes felt like I was behind, so I knew I had to put in extra effort. Being recognized showed me I was moving in the right direction and that staying consistent was making a difference.
Receiving the scholarship made it even more meaningful because I'm the first person in my family to go to college and now pursue a graduate degree.
My mom was with me when I opened the email to see that I was selected for the scholarship, and we celebrated together. It was a day of gratitude.
The support from both the UC Davis Graduate School of Management and the PCAOB made me feel incredibly lucky.
Looking Ahead
As you begin the MPAc program, what are you most excited to learn and experience?
I'm excited to learn more about careers in accounting beyond what I've seen so far. I've spoken with professionals, but I want to better understand the day-to-day work, learn more about accounting processes and prepare for the CPA exams.
I'm also looking forward to developing my networking and professional skills. As co-president of the Davis Economics Collective, I discovered that I really enjoy helping other students explore different career paths. I want to keep learning from the people around me because that's where you learn the most.
Finding Confidence Through Community
What has surprised you most about the community you've found at the UC Davis Graduate School of Management?
Every time I've visited the Graduate School of Management, everyone has been so welcoming. Networking events usually make me nervous because talking to new people can feel overwhelming, but at the GSM, it's been easy to ease into conversations and meet people.
The community has always been supportive, and that welcoming environment really solidified my decision to attend UC Davis. It made me feel confident that this was where I wanted to continue my education.
Advice for Future Students
What advice would you give students considering graduate school or exploring a career in accounting?
If you're considering graduate school, visit a class and talk to current students. Ask the questions that matter to you, whether that's work-life balance, the curriculum or career preparation. Talking with students and teaching assistants gave me a realistic understanding of what to expect.
For accounting, I'd say it's a great career if you're detail-oriented and enjoy learning. The profession is always evolving, so you have to be willing to keep growing and adapting. If you're looking for a stable career that will challenge you and keep you engaged, accounting is a great choice.