The Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) in the Bay Area is a transformative summer residency initiative designed to introduce minority high school students to the exciting prospects within the accounting and business professions. ACAP’s core mission is to increase the representation of minority professionals in accounting and related business fields by providing early exposure and invaluable insights.
For high school students in the Bay Area interested in exploring future career paths, the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) offers a unique opportunity. This summer program provides an immersive experience into the world of accounting and finance, specifically crafted to engage students from underrepresented backgrounds. To connect with the NABA San Francisco ACAP program directly, please reach out via email at [email protected].
To discover more about the enriching opportunities offered by the ACAP Program in the Bay Area and how to get involved, Click Here.
Diverse group of high school students participating in the Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) Bay Area, engaging in activities designed to introduce them to accounting and finance careers.
The Genesis of ACAP
The Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) has a rich history, originating in 1980 from the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA). NABA recognized a significant gap and the pressing need to encourage African-American and other minority students to consider and pursue careers in the accounting profession. Understanding that career aspirations begin to solidify during the high school years, NABA developed ACAP as a one-week residency program. This program is strategically designed to immerse students in classes focused on accounting and business careers, personal development, and essential college preparation skills.
Empowering Future Leaders Through ACAP
ACAP specifically focuses on recruiting talented students from African-American, Hispanic, Native American, and other underrepresented minority backgrounds, groups that are currently underrepresented in accounting and finance careers. Student selection is holistic, considering factors such as recommendations from high school counselors and the students’ own applications, showcasing their interest and potential.
The ACAP summer residency program is a fully immersive experience. For five days, selected students reside in dormitories at a sponsoring college campus within the Bay Area, experiencing college life firsthand while attending engaging classes. The curriculum is carefully designed to cover key topics in accounting and business, complemented by workshops on college readiness and personal growth. Learning is further enhanced through team-building exercises, insightful tours of professional offices, and enriching field trips, providing a well-rounded and impactful experience.
