Sarah Yamaichi

For Sarah Yamaichi, choosing Cal Poly’s MST program was a way to deepen her knowledge of taxation while staying connected to her Central Coast roots. A native of Orcutt, CA, Sarah appreciated Cal Poly’s rigorous academic curriculum and opportunities to connect with local professionals. “Having grown up in the area, I wanted to work with and serve my community,” she explained.

The program provided Sarah with a broad understanding of tax concepts, covering topics like State and Local Taxation, International Taxation, and Taxation of Partnerships. “The coursework enabled me to feel conversant in a variety of tax scenarios,” she said. Professors played a critical role in her development. Professor Chamberlain’s flexibility in scheduling office hours and Professor Mock’s thought-provoking discussions on AI’s ethical implications demonstrated the faculty’s commitment to student success.

One of Sarah’s most memorable experiences was her internship with Caliber Accounting and Tax in Pismo Beach. “Working with a smaller local firm allowed me to apply real-life examples from class, like state apportionment and tax research, to client scenarios,” she shared. The internship led to a full-time position as a Staff Accountant, which she began after graduating.

Outside of class, Sarah volunteered with Cal Poly’s Volunteer Income Tax Clinic (VITA) and participated in a graduate student panel to share her experiences with prospective students. These activities reinforced her commitment to giving back to her community while building professional connections.

Sarah is now studying for her CPA exams and plans to continue serving Central Coast residents and businesses. “I find great satisfaction in knowing my work directly benefits local people and small businesses,” she said. Her advice for incoming students? “Be curious, ask questions, and take full advantage of this program—it’s a true gift.”

Looking ahead, Sarah aims to earn her CPA license within two years and continue making a meaningful impact in her community.

This profile was published in the Winter of 2024.