CPA Champ 

C. T. Bauer College of Business accounting alumna Stephanie Guei (MS ‘24) is one of the country’s top CPA exam performers, named as the sole Texas university graduate to win the 2025 Elijah Watt Sells Award. 

The award is annually granted by the American Institute of CPAs and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy to CPA candidates who earn an average score of above 95.5 across all sections of the exam, pass all sections on the first attempt and complete all testing within the calendar year.  

“It’s an honor to be one of six people in the country this year to receive this award,” Guei said. “It feels great to bring pride to my school and job.” 

Guei had an untraditional introduction to accounting, earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Houston in kinesiology. She worked as an elementary school physical education teacher until a family emergency put a hold on her career.  

Given the opportunity to reflect and reset, Guei recalled previously considering accounting and decided to go back to school at Bauer College. 

“The choice was intimidating because I didn't have the prerequisites for the master's program,” she said. “I thought about it for about a year but then decided that the time will pass no matter what, so I might as well go for it.” 

Guei said Bauer resources made the transition smooth. She looks back on her experience as a student fondly.  

“The professors always took the time to help you out and take you under their wing,” Guei said. “That was the biggest help to me.”  

While in her graduate program, Guei started a tax internship at Weaver. After graduation, she started at the company full-time and worked there as she studied for the CPA exam.  

To help balance working and studying, Guei recommends creating a timeline of when to study and take the exams, and to start studying while you’re still in school. 

“Additionally, don't forget to do the things that you love,” she said. “You're going to be busy with school, studying and working, but there's always time for our passions and for our loved ones.” 

Learn more about the Bauer Master of Science in Accountancy and Certificate in Accountancy Program here.