Briana Costa - one of the leading faces of ADKF’s CAS (Client Accounting Services) team!
Brianna took a roundabout way to reach Texas and ADKF, but she is an integral part of our team. Born and raised in Massachusetts, she moved to Colorado and eventually Portland, Oregon.
Originally, she felt destined to follow in her father’s footsteps and make a career for herself in IT. She started out majoring in computer science and eventually switched to majoring in mathematics with a minor in physics. But after taking Accounting 101 as an elective class, she quickly fell in love with the accounting field. She knew that she wanted to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps and become an accountant instead, but unfortunately her first university did not offer accounting degrees. However, this did not deter her in the slightest. Five years after graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, she went back to school for her accounting degree. Within two years, Briana earned both her Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Science of Accountancy.
Her friends would convince her to move from Portland, Oregon to San Antonio, Texas. When asked what some of the biggest changes in her cross-country move are, she mentioned the obvious weather differences, Southern Hospitality, and the lack of it when people get into their cars!
CAS involves advising clients on their company and interests, not just bookkeeping. They supplement existing systems and bring more services. The department operates as a quasi-controller to give actionable advice and allows clients the opportunity to pivot and grow. One must have constant communication and involvement for this department to find success along with their clients! She finds this aspect of the job challenging and multifaceted because of the unique obstacles presented by each client.
Start small, according to Briana's advice for those interested in this field. Build your accounting foundations and hone your skills. You can find rewarding challenges in the profession once you master the nuances and common practices.
Briana’s biggest professional achievement so far is gaining her position here at ADKF. Briana played an integral part in doubling the size of the CAS department, securing a leadership role, and shaping the future of Accounting Services. She has seen many successes and the opportunity for career growth at ADKF.
Outside of ADKF, you can find Briana taking care of her four, soon to be five, cats while enjoying her passion for video games. She put this hobby aside momentarily as she aspires to pass her three remaining parts of the CPA exam in 2023 to become licensed by the end of this year.