Meet Jacob!
Jacob graduated from USF in Spring 2025 with dual degrees in Finance and Accounting, earning cum laude honors.
Reflecting on his journey, he shares: “I initially chose finance as my major because I’ve always wanted to be a step ahead financially, something that’s rarely taught when you’re young. I knew that understanding money, investments, and how to build financial stability would not only benefit me personally but also allow me to help those closest to me.”
Halfway through his time at USF, his AP credits from high school allowed him to add a second major in accounting. “I saw accounting as a way to strengthen my technical skills and gain a deeper understanding of the financial details behind business decisions, complementing my finance background and better preparing me for a career where I can make a meaningful impact.”
During his time at USF, Kevin pursued several co-curricular opportunities that complimented his academic experiences:
In the summer of 2024, he interned in Specialty Asset and Tax Accounting at Raymond James, working with approximately $500 million in assets under management. His responsibilities included valuing closely held businesses, analyzing financial statements, reviewing third-party appraisals, and learning trust income taxation. A key project involved collaborating with the CFO and senior leadership on compliance with the Corporate Transparency Act, which deepened my understanding of regulatory frameworks and risk management. His efforts earned him a full time offer as an Associate Financial Analyst, where he will support the Trust Tax Department, contribute to financial reporting and budgeting, and identify process improvements.
Jacob also prioritized his physical well being and teamwork through participation in both the Men’s Club Volleyball and Beach Volleyball teams, representing USF across multiple semesters.
Community Service:
“Following the Pulse Nightclub tragedy, I contributed as an illustrator to My Tio’s Pulse, a children’s outreach book published in 2018 to promote love and unity, with all proceeds benefiting affected families. This early experience sparked my passion for advocacy. At USF, I continued this commitment through the Judy Genshaft Honors College’s Art and Environment group by co-creating “Botanical Harmony,” a mural at the Botanical Gardens that highlights the connection between art, sustainability, and environmental responsibility.”
Competencies Jacob identifies as essential to his current success:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
- Career & Self-Development
“I’ve definitely faced challenges during my career preparation at USF especially during the internship search process. I applied to around 30 internships and only received one response, which was discouraging at first. However, I made the most of that opportunity by preparing thoroughly and doing everything I could to leave a strong impression during the interview. It paid off as I was selected as one of about 300 interns out of roughly 30,000 applicants. Even more rewarding, about half of us were offered full-time positions, and I was fortunate to be among them.”
“That experience taught me the value of persistence, preparation, and making the most of every opportunity.”
Recent accomplishments:
- Graduating from the University of South Florida with two degrees in Finance and Accounting, earning cum laude honors
- Completing the Honors College program.
- Muma College of Business 25 Under 25 – recognized as one of the top students in the college
- Full time offer at Raymond James
- Community service and creative projects – “Outside the classroom, I helped raise money for a local women’s shelter through a student-led service project and collaborated with the Honors College to co-create a mural titled ‘Botanical Harmony’ at the USF Botanical Gardens, blending art with sustainability.”
USF resources that helped along the way:
- “One of the most impactful resources at USF that contributed to my success was the accounting-specific career fair.”
- “It gave me the opportunity to connect directly with professionals in the field, ask meaningful questions, and build relationships that eventually led to internship opportunities. It was a key moment in helping me understand how to navigate the recruiting process and stand out. “
- “I’m also incredibly grateful for Edson O’Neale, Student Employment/JLD Coordinator at the Center for Career and Professional Development, who was a big supporter throughout my journey. He took the time to help me prepare for interviews, offered honest advice, and gave me the confidence to present myself professionally. Both the career fair and Edson’s mentorship played a major role in getting me to where I am today.”
Jacob’s advice to fellow Bulls: “One piece of advice I’d give to other USF students is something a mentor once told me: anything is achievable as long as you actually go out and do it. That simple mindset has stuck with me, and I live by it every day. Whether it’s applying for opportunities, preparing for interviews, or taking on new challenges, the key is to stop overthinking and just take action.
“You don’t need to have everything figured out, you just need to start!”