Hundreds of students attended the Two-Year Bridge Symposium last month in Boston, but Artemisa Correia was unique from the rest.

Correia, a CCRI student from Pawtucket, was the sole student representing both CCRI and the entire state of Rhode Island at the exclusive national event for accounting students. All other attendees were local to their host office locations, underscoring the impressive nature of her participation.

The one-day symposium, hosted by the American Accounting Association (AAA) Foundation, connects two-year college students with opportunities in the accounting profession. Correia learned about the opportunity from a flyer distributed by her professor, Cecile Roberti, in her Intermediate Accounting class.

“As an Accounting student who is passionate about building a strong career, I try to take advantage of every opportunity shared by my professors, my department, or the school,” said the 33-year-old Correia, who moved to the U.S. from Cape Verde three years ago. “If an event can bring me closer to my professional goals or help me strengthen my skills, I will always apply — even if I don’t get selected the first time.

“So, when I saw the flyer, I didn’t hesitate. I knew immediately that I wanted to be part of something that could help me grow in the accounting field.”

After a smooth application process, Correia received confirmation of her selection. It was only upon arriving at the event that she realized the significance of her attendance.

“The virtual orientation had more than 300 students from different schools, and I was extremely nervous,” Correia said. “I didn’t realize I was the only student representing CCRI — and the only student representing the entire state of Rhode Island — until I arrived at the event. It was a huge honor and a moment I’ll never forget.”

During the symposium, Correia participated in sessions focusing on accounting career pathways, transferring to four-year programs, professional licensure, and scholarship opportunities. She engaged directly with senior accountants, CPAs, consultants, and tax professionals from major firms and government agencies.

Correia emphasized the value of hearing from professionals, many of whom were immigrants themselves.

“They shared so much -- how they began, what steps they took, and how to grow in the field,” she said. “Hearing their journeys was incredibly inspiring. It gave me clarity and confidence about my own path.”

Inspired by her experience at the Two-Year Bridge Symposium, Correia is ready to take the next steps in her accounting career. She’s scheduled to graduate this summer and plans to transfer to Rhode Island College to complete her bachelor’s degree.

“I felt deeply thankful,” Correia said of attending the event. “After the presentations, when I realized I was the only student representing my school, I was amazed and proud. To be in a room full of accomplished professionals -- many of whom also came to this country with no English -- reminded me that there are no barriers when you work hard.

“CCRI gave me the chance to be there, and it meant so much to me.”