Beyond the Classroom: UAF Accounting Students Engage with Local Business

Written by Dr. Ruth Prato
Edited by Lauren White 
Oct. 10, 2025

Students enrolled in ACCT 404: Advanced Cost Accounting and Controllership at the University of Alaska’s ϳԹ of Business and Security Management (CBSM) are discovering that accounting extends far beyond the classroom. While textbooks provide the theoretical foundation, site visits to local businesses offer a unique chance to interact with accounting professionals, get a close-up view of operations and see how accounting is actively involved in daily decision-making. 

Students learning
Photo Courtesy of Ruth Prato
Students in ACCT 404 learn about the business's day-to-day operations and the hands-on role of the controller.

Professor Ruth Prato and her students recently visited Exclusive Paving, a heavy civil general contracting company located in Fairbanks, just minutes from campus. One of the most eye-opening lessons for students was discovering the extent of controllers' involvement in a business's day-to-day operations. Rather than being isolated in offices crunching numbers, controllers play a vital role on the strategic leadership team and actively collaborate across departments. They also assume many responsibilities, including balancing budgets, forecasting, cash management, and internal controls. 

“I was surprised by how hands-on the controller was with the operations of the business,” said Tobias, a student in ACCT 404. “I figured they were stuck in an office, crunching numbers all day. From this visit, I got the impression of a controller being very hands-on with the business.” 

Beyond the role of the controller, the visit also highlighted the relevance of global accounting standards. For another student, Annie Tocko, the experience reinforced her focus on international accounting.

 “Hearing how International Financial Reporting Standards are applied in practice, even here in Alaska, gave me confidence that I’m on the right path by focusing on international accounting.”

At CBSM, this kind of experiential learning is at the heart of the curriculum. By connecting theory with practice, students gain a deeper appreciation for accounting as a dynamic, hands-on profession that drives organizational success.

Prato group photo
Photo courtesy of Ruth Prato
Professor Ruth Prato and her accounting students at Exclusive Paving in Fairbanks, Alaska.