Accounting students provide tax assistance

At the height of tax season, a group of Accountancy students teamed up with Goodwill Southern Rivers to help community members needing assistance with filing their returns.

The nonprofit participates in the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program that offers free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals. The program, which has been in existence for over 50 years, is operated by IRS partners and volunteers in communities across the country.

The students received training from Goodwill Southern Rivers VITA Temp Charlotta Andrews, who oversees the LaGrange site.

“To be able to work with such an amazing team is truly a blessing,” Andrews said. “The students come in ready and eager to help and learn. Our clients love the kindness they show and the time they take to assist them with their taxes.”

Assistant Professor of Accounting Samantha Sick said this experience not only benefits the public, but also the students as well.

“Students serving in such a specialized way is transformative—confidence grows, new skills develop, and you feel a sense of responsibility to do your best and provide a high-quality product,” she said. “I couldn't be prouder of how our students are rising to this challenge.”

Seniors Vijay Patel and Cindy Deleon shared what they have taken away from this experience.

“Volunteering with VITA has not only enhanced my practical knowledge of tax preparation but also enriched my interpersonal skills,” Patel said. “The experience has reinforced the importance of patience and active listening. Moreover, it has underscored the significance of empathy and respect in dealing with diverse client reactions and needs.”

“This experience is having a positive impact on my social skills, which are very important in the accounting field,” Deleon said. “My next goal…is to feel more confident to initiate conversations and take the lead to aid clients.”