International student Shaira Catli found community, support, and professional growth in accounting master’s degree

Shaira Catli (MACC '25) chose to move from the Philippines to come to W. P. Carey for the Master of Accountancy and Data Analytics (MACC). She was drawn in not only by the program's combination of traditional accounting with data analysis tools, but also by the school's values.

ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business attracts students from across the world to its specialized master's programs, which offer the opportunity to develop expertise in specific areas of business with innovative curriculums and close-knit cohorts.

Shaira Catli (MACC '25) chose to move from the Philippines to come to W. P. Carey for the Master of Accountancy and Data Analytics (MACC). She was drawn in not only by the program's combination of traditional accounting with data analysis tools, but also by the school's values.

"I wasn’t just looking for a business degree," says Catli. "I was seeking a place that values inclusion, innovation, and leadership with purpose. W. P. Carey stood out, not only because of its strong academic reputation, but because of its commitment to building leaders who make a difference."

"That mission resonated with me deeply, and I’m proud to be part of a program that helps me become not only a better professional but a more impactful person."

W. P. Carey News spoke to Catli about the supportive community she's found during her time at the school, how the MACC has prepared her for her future career, and her advice for future W. P. Carey master's students.

Why W. P. Carey?

Having a strong community of peers can make a huge difference for international students making the transition to university in the U.S. Catli credits the W. P. Carey community for making her feel welcome and comfortable while in the MACC program.

"Whether it’s my academic advisor checking in regularly, professors who go beyond lectures to mentor us, or classmates who are genuinely supportive, I’ve felt a true sense of belonging since day one," she says. "Being part of the W. P. Carey community has helped shape my confidence, resilience, and sense of purpose."

This sense of community is even felt through coursework, as the curriculum emphasizes collaboration and discussion, mirroring corporate situations.

"The case studies, group projects, and classroom discussions have pushed me to think critically, work cross-functionally, and communicate more effectively — skills that I know will serve me well throughout my career," Catli says.

She adds, "It’s one thing to learn concepts from a textbook, but applying them to real-world scenarios has been a game-changer. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me more confident in how I approach problems."

Why accounting?

Catli received her bachelor's degree in accounting in 2022, and since graduation, she has worked as a staff accountant at various companies. This gave her experience within the field, but she soon decided she wanted to pursue further studies to advance her knowledge.

"[Working as a staff accountant] helped me build a solid foundation in several areas of accounting, including proficiency in accounting systems and many more," she says. "But I realized I needed a global perspective and a stronger strategic framework to take my career to the next level."

The MACC program has helped Catli deepen her expertise in accounting while also helping her develop skills to be a leader in her field and the business world in the years to come.

"We work on real case studies, group projects, and even simulations that make us think like actual business professionals," says Catli. "Another thing I didn’t expect was how much focus there is on soft skills like communication, leadership, and ethical decision-making. These are things that often get overlooked, but W. P. Carey integrates them naturally into our learning."

Being at W. P. Carey has only strengthened Catli's passion for the accounting industry and helped her solidify her career goals.

"My main goal is to become a successful accountant, not just in title, but in the impact I make," she says. "I want to grow into a role where I can help businesses make smart financial decisions, stay compliant, and operate more efficiently."

What's next?

Heading into her post-graduation career, Catli feels well-prepared to go after the career she desires, and she credits the W. P. Carey Career Services Center with helping her reach this point.

"When I first started the program, I was honestly a bit unsure about how to position myself in a new environment, especially coming from a different country," she says. "But the support here made a big difference."

Catli adds, "I’ve had resume reviews, mock interviews, and even casual conversations with career coaches that helped me figure out what direction I wanted to take. They didn’t just give generic advice, but they took time to understand my background and goals, which really helped me feel seen and supported."

For those following a similar path, Catli suggests future students take advantage of this and the many other resources available at W. P. Carey and ASU, especially for fellow international students.

"Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone," she says. "It’s okay to feel nervous or unsure — especially if you're coming from another country like I did — but trust that you’ll grow so much in this journey. W. P. Carey has so many resources and people who truly want to see you succeed, so don’t hesitate to ask for help, connect with others, and get involved early."