This week, students and staff from Blue & Co. gathered in Cincinnati, Ohio, for the annual Jumpstart Summer Leadership Program 2026. This two-day event was an opportunity for students to meet staff, network, and share their experiences within the accounting industry.
We asked two attendees, Caroline Shull and Brycen Shively a few questions about their goals, career interests, and what inspired them to apply for Jumpstart 2026.
Q: Why did you apply for Jumpstart 2026?
Caroline:
I was referred to Blue and Co. by my boss at school and she encouraged me to connect with Amy Lambdin, one of the campus recruiters to learn more about the company and different opportunities available for students. After speaking with Amy and learning more about Jumpstart, I felt like this would be a great experience for me and decided to apply for 2026!
Brycen:
I met April Mohr, one of the campus recruiters last year at an event and she explained to me all that Jumpstart has to offer. When it came time to apply I knew this was an experience I wanted to have to grow in my career and meet more accountants in the industry.
What is your accounting dream job?
Caroline:
I want to follow in my aunt's footsteps and become a CFO.
Brycen:
My dream is to eventually become a partner or director, where I can build strong client relationships and help bring talented people into the firm to support its continued success.
What is one career goal you have for the next few years?
Caroline:
First I want to obtain an internship in Cincinnati to gain real-world experience in the industry. After my internship, I hope to obtain a full-time offer from that internship and continue learning and growing in my career.
Brycen:
I want to graduate and to obtain an internship that hopefully turns into a full-time position. I also want to finish my CPA exams before I start working full-time.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve received so far?
Caroline:
Stay curious and invest in yourself! The industry is always changing and college courses cannot always stay on top of these changes. Keep doing your own research and asking questions to continue learning more about the everchanging industry.
Brycen:
Focus more on the culture of the firm and the talent development they offer. Having a firm that will contribute to your career growth and success is better long-term than a big brand name.
What advice would you give to future students applying for Jumpstart?
Caroline:
Just do it! This experience is not as stressful as you think it is going to be. Team Blue is so welcoming and they create a supportive environment where everyone can talk and be themselves.
Brycen:
Have fun with it! Talk to as many people as you can and make connections because it’s a really cool opportunity that will not only help you grow professionally but will also be a lot of fun along the way.
About Jumpstart Summer Leadership Program
Blue’s Jumpstart Summer Leadership Program is a two-day, expenses-paid program where college students (incoming sophomores to juniors) can learn more about our company and public accounting roles.
The leadership program is a great opportunity to:
- Network and build your understanding of the accounting profession by hearing from industry professionals.
- Speak with Blue staff and recent graduates about how they chose their career paths and got to where they are today.
- Participate in team building and social events with students from different schools.
- Learn what companies like Blue & Co. are looking for in candidates for internships and full-time positions.
Watch the 2026 Recap Video!