To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, UA Little Rock is profiling students who received a League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) scholarship. Meet Maria Roman, a junior accounting and finance major.

Why have you decided to go into accounting and finance?

I decided to go into this field because of job security. I want to rest assured that after college I am guaranteed to find a job.

What made you choose UA Little Rock?

I chose UA Little Rock because of its dedication to supporting students financially. I am able to pursue my bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance because of the financial support I have received by the university and its generous donors.

What organizations and clubs are you involved in on campus?

I am a student worker for the Multicultural Center and Student Experience Center, a volunteer for the University Writing Center, a peer mentor for Student Retention Initiatives, an orientation leader, and a member of Beta Alpha Psi and LULAC.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I hope to obtain my CPA license and either work for the state government as an accountant or become a commercial banker. After I have worked a substantial amount of time in one of those fields, I want to become a business professor. I hope to accomplish this because throughout my college career, I have noticed a lack of representation among my business professors. I want to show students that look like me that with hard work and dedication, anyone can become a person of great influence.

Why do you think it is important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

In a country where the Hispanic community makes up a big chunk of the population, Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it empowers the community by recognizing our various accomplishments. Through the recognition of these accomplishments, we are able to influence others and strengthen our community.

How did you first hear about LULAC, and which scholarship were you awarded?

I first heard of LULAC through a friend last fall. I am grateful for organizations like LULAC who strive to support Hispanic students through providing ways to fund our dreams of higher education.

I was awarded a LULAC national scholarship and an additional scholarship from the Richard family. Dr. Terry Richard and his brother fund this scholarship to cover a student’s textbook costs. I think I was selected for both scholarships because of my involvement on campus, my dedication to persevere through adversities, and my commitment to empower my community in the future.

How did your family react to the news that you were selected?

They were thrilled by the news. They were glad because it takes a burden off them and me to know that my education is being funded by generous donors.

What’s next for you?

This past summer I was an intern for the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA), where I worked in their Office of Accounting. While at the DFA, I worked on helping them implement a new software that made them reduce their paper consumption and increased their productivity. Because I was such an amazing worker, I was offered a part-time position to work on various projects with my supervisor that will help me gain experience in the field.