From Baruch to FASB: Jonathan Rhine (MBA '06)

Recent Baruch College graduate Jonathan Rhine has been accepted by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) as a postgraduate technical assistant.

FASB, a private-sector organization that establishes financial accounting and reporting standards, sponsors the postgraduate technical assistant (PTA) program for those who are planning a career with an emphasis on accounting. The one-year program allows the PTA to become highly involved with the accounting standards–setting process and develop an in-depth understanding of the roles played by preparers, auditors, and other users of financial information.

Norman Strauss, Rhine’s professor in the Stan Ross Department of Accountancy and a former partner at Ernst & Young, noted, “This is a very competitive position. All the major accounting schools throughout the country submit nominations, and it is a tribute to Baruch that they selected our candidate.”

Rhine pointed out how well his Baruch education has prepared him for his future career: “The commitment of Baruch’s professors and the comprehensive approach they take to teaching have earned Baruch’s accounting program its strong reputation.”

PTAs are involved in all phases of their assigned projects, which include analyzing written public comments, reviewing published research, drafting due process documents, and evaluating the accounting proposals of other organizations. Upon completion of his one-year position at FASB, Rhine will build upon his experience by pursuing a career in public accounting.

—Tom Fugalli