A testament to determination and dedication: Eric Neas
By GCSU senior Olivia Reichert.
A t Georgia College & State University, success stories aren't uncommon. The same is true for double bobcat Eric Neas, '12, '13, whose journey is a testament to determination and dedication. In a recent interview, Eric shared insights into his educational path, career progression and the impact of his alma mater, Georgia College.
After graduating from Georgia College with a degree in accounting in 2012, Eric continued his studies to earn a master's degree in 2013. His time at Georgia College laid a strong foundation for his professional journey.
During his graduate studies, Eric truly found his stride through a graduate assistantship which in turn paved the way for a successful transition into the professional world. Reflecting on his time at Georgia College, Eric expressed gratitude for the supportive faculty and administrators who played a pivotal role in his academic journey.
Eric also shared anecdotes about his time as a firefighter in Baldwin County. Balancing his duties as a first responder with his academic responsibilities, he often studied accounting coursework during night shifts at the firehouse, exemplifying his dedication to both his community and his education.
Maintaining connections with his alma mater has always been important to Eric. Despite the changes in faculty, he stays in touch with mentors like Dr. Moore and Dr. Whelan, along with retired faculty member Dr. Sally Humphries and administrators such as Susan Whittle. Eric's commitment to Georgia College extends beyond mere communication; he actively participates in campus events, including career fairs and classroom presentations, representing his employer, Aprio.
Eric's career trajectory took a significant turn when he joined the firm in 2013. Starting as an audit associate, Eric's dedication and hard work propelled him through the ranks, eventually leading to his current role as an audit partner. At Aprio, Eric found a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters growth and prioritizes employee development.
In discussing the state of the accounting profession, Eric highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing aspiring accountants. Despite fewer undergraduate accounting majors, Eric remains optimistic about the future of the industry. With a focus on educating students about the dynamic nature of accounting and the exciting opportunities it offers, Eric is determined to inspire the next wave of accounting professionals.
This blog post celebrates Eric Neas's remarkable journey and highlights the importance of education, mentorship, and professional partnerships in shaping successful careers.
We asked him some questions about his experiences to guide future accounting and business majors in the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology.
Q: What is a quality or characteristic that has helped you in your career?
A: As the accounting profession evolves, CPAs are now not only adept in compliance, but true business advisors to our clients. Being a strong problem solver with excellent analytical skills has contributed significantly to my success. The ability to analyze complex issues, identify solutions and make informed decisions has been essential in guiding my clients.
Q: To what extent does your degree relate to your current position? What skills do you use for your work?
A: My degrees from GCSU have direct application to my position as an audit partner at Aprio. The degrees are the foundation that have shaped me to be an experienced advisor to Aprio clients. The technical knowledge, analytical skills and ethical foundation I gained during my studies are crucial to my daily responsibilities, from building success in others within Aprio to success in our clients.
Q: What parts of the business program had the strongest impact on you as a professional?
A: The intimate setting of GCSU had a significant impact on me, providing the opportunity to network with other business program students and engage with professors and professionals. I was able to learn how to connect with people, learn who they are, what their drive is in life and where they aspire to be. At Aprio, we are passionate about what’s next – that means truly knowing our clients, well beyond the numbers. My experience at Georgia College has enabled me to develop a strong professional skillset in the field of interpersonal business.
Q: What advice would you give to current/future business majors at GCSU?
A: Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow, both inside and outside the classroom. You have the chance to gain invaluable experiences and connections from internships, networking events, and professional organizations that will benefit your career in the long run.