Accounting Senior Wins $15,000 PCAOB Scholarship and Lands Internship at Grant Thornton

East Texas A&M University accounting senior Kay-Marie James has been named a 2025–2026 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholar, earning a prestigious $15,000 scholarship from the board. In addition to this national recognition, she has also secured a highly competitive audit internship with Grant Thornton LLP for summer 2026.

“I'm honored to be named a PCAOB Scholar and excited to represent the College of Business,” said James. “This scholarship not only eases the financial burden of my studies, but also affirms my path toward becoming a CPA. It motivates me to continue pushing forward, and I hope to use it as a platform to inspire and mentor others pursuing careers in public accounting.”

A recognition of Academic Excellence

PCAOB Scholars are selected exclusively through faculty nominations, and James credits her recognition to a combination of academic consistency, personal initiative and meaningful engagement with faculty.

“I'm focused on maintaining a strong GPA, engaging meaningfully in coursework, and building relationships with my professors—one of whom ultimately nominated me, Dr. Robert Rankin,” she said. “His support and mentorship were invaluable in the process.”

James encourages fellow students to cultivate genuine academic and professional connections.

“Even if you're not directly applying [for a scholarship], your professionalism and consistency can speak volumes,” she said. “I recommend students get to know their professors, show initiative, and stay involved in activities that align with the mission of the PCAOB, such as ethics, auditing, and public interest.”

Providing Impactful Opportunities

Her scholarship win coincided with another milestone: earning an audit internship at Grant Thornton, one of the world's leading accounting and advisory firms. She credits her success to proactive networking and thorough preparation.

“I was drawn to Grant Thornton for its strong culture of collaboration, professional growth, and commitment to diversity,” she explained. “During the recruitment process at the NABA 2025 Convention and Expo, I attended their networking event and made it a point to follow up with professionals I met. I prepared for interviews by researching the firm's values and practicing behavioral questions that highlighted my problem-solving and teamwork skills. Everyone I interacted with at the firm made me feel welcome and encouraged.”

James believes her time at East Texas A&M's College of Business helped lay the foundation for these achievements.

“My coursework laid a strong foundation in accounting principles and sharpened my analytical and communication skills,” she said. “While I haven't yet completed my audit internship, I am particularly looking forward to engaging with upcoming courses in auditing and financial reporting. I am eager to deepen my understanding of the audit process and how it supports transparency and trust in financial reporting. Combined with courses in financial reporting and accounting ethics, this will further enhance my ability to think critically and apply my knowledge in practical, real-world contexts.”

A message to fellow students

She hopes her story serves as an example to fellow students striving for academic and professional excellence.

“Stay consistent and be intentional with your goals,” James advised. “Build relationships with your professors and peers, seek feedback, and don't hesitate to ask for help. Preparation, professionalism, and a genuine passion for what you're studying go a long way. And most importantly, believe in your value—you're capable of more than you think.”

Looking ahead, she sees this recognition and internship as steps toward her long-term aspirations in audit or advisory services, where “ethics and diligence are critical.” She also plans to mentor other students who share an interest in public accounting.

Featured Photo: Kay-Marie James received a prestigious $15,000 scholarship from the PCAOB | Courtesy Photo