I am a different person after starting my program at BSU. I didn't know I could be able to do my master's entirely in a different language than I was used to ... BSU is giving me the sense that I am able to overcome challenges.
As a financial professional for the Cabo Verdean government, Katia Lopes, G’27, is committed to uncovering tax fraud. Bridgewater State University is giving her an advanced skillset to accomplish that goal.
"I knew BSU was the perfect place for me," said Lopes, who first came to campus for a summer leadership academy and is now pursuing a master’s degree in accountancy. "I was so impressed by how they were committed with diversity and were able to help you with your questions."
But traveling more than 3,000 miles away for grad school presented its share of challenges. Lopes had to adjust to a new language and culture and determine how to fund her education, all while completing an academically demanding course schedule.
"I remember my first day of classes was terrible. I started thinking I'm not going to be able to do this," she recalled. But, she added, she talked to some of the staff on campus "and they were very, very supportive and approachable.”
Angelo Barbosa, director of the Pedro Pires Institute for Cape Verdean Studies, introduced her to campus resources and funding opportunities. The International Student and Scholar Services Office excelled at easing her transition to the U.S. while staff in the Academic Achievement Center helped Lopes improve her English and organizational skills.
Lopes is also grateful for financial support from BSU. She works as a graduate assistant for Transfer Services and was the first beneficiary of the Miguel L. Gomes Discretionary Fund, which honors a longtime BSU administrator of Cabo Verdean descent.
Lopes, who took a leave of absence from her job at the National Revenue Directorate (the Cabo Verdean equivalent of the IRS) to attend graduate school, noticed that her organization needed expertise in analyzing tax fraud and evasion.
"I'm here to get that information, this advanced knowledge in accounting and finance, and to be able to go back and help my country implement some good practices to streamline the auditing process," she said.
Lopes is especially looking forward to taking a forensic accounting class and gaining hands-on experience at an American accounting firm. She also has a new sense of confidence.
"I am a different person after starting my program at BSU," she said. "I didn't know I could be able to do my master's entirely in a different language than I was used to ... BSU is giving me the sense that I am able to overcome challenges."
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