My Journey Through the Albertus 4+1 MSA Program
Contributed by: Yoana Garcia ’23, ’24 M.S.
When I was deciding where to pursue my bachelor’s degree, I knew I wanted to attend a school where I could build meaningful relationships with my professors and feel comfortable asking questions. That is what led me to Albertus Magnus College, and it quickly proved to be one of the best decisions I could have made. I found that the faculty genuinely cared about their students’ success. Professors were always accessible, whether during office hours or outside of class, and they consistently created an environment where I felt supported and encouraged to grow. One professor who had a lasting impact on my journey was Dr. Alan DelFavero. Having him as a professor throughout my five years at Albertus allowed him to truly get to know me, both academically and personally, and he played a key role in shaping my path.
I was first introduced to the 4+1 Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program during my freshman year. While the opportunity to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in an accelerated timeline was appealing, I initially doubted whether I could succeed at the graduate level. Like many students, I experienced imposter syndrome and hesitated to take that next step. However, with continued encouragement and guidance from Dr. DelFavero, I began to see the program as an opportunity to challenge myself and grow.
During my senior year, I officially started taking graduate-level courses while completing my undergraduate degree. The structure of the program made it possible to transition seamlessly into graduate studies, and the flexibility of evening courses allowed me to balance my academic responsibilities with other commitments. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I continued in the MSA program while working full-time in public accounting. This strengthened my discipline, time management, and ability to adapt to demanding situations.
What makes the MSA program at Albertus particularly impactful is its practical and career-focused approach. The curriculum not only builds a strong technical foundation in accounting, but also emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application. The small class sizes and supportive faculty create an environment where students can engage deeply with the material, ask questions, and gain confidence in their abilities. Today, as an Auditor, I rely on the skills I developed in the MSA program every day. Whether I am working on complex audit engagements, collaborating with clients, or mentoring newer team members, I can see the direct impact of my education at Albertus.
For students considering the MSA program, my advice is simple: don’t let self-doubt hold you back. The 4+1 program offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your education while receiving strong support from faculty who are truly invested in your success. The experience will challenge you, but it will also prepare you in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.
Looking back, I am incredibly grateful that I chose to pursue my MSA at Albertus Magnus College. It was a decision that shaped not only my career path, but also my confidence in myself as an accounting professional.
The Albertus Magnus College MSA program is part of our one year graduate degree options.