Hastings College senior Peyton Yost transformed uncertainty about his future into career ambition during an internship at CORE CPAs last summer. Inspired by a family legacy in the field, the experience provided Yost with hands-on experience that awakened both a professional purpose and a new appreciation for his roots.
The Castle Rock, Colorado, native is a double major in accounting and business administration. With many family members working as accountants, the internship allowed Yost to finally see himself on that same path.
“It’s allowed me to realize that this is something I want to pursue. It has made me feel better because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, and now just being there I love it,” Yost said. “My dad is an accountant and growing up it was hard for me to understand what he does, but now I have a greater appreciation for it.”
Yost spent his time managing spreadsheets, documents and reports to support coworkers and partners. While the data-heavy nature of accounting can be a challenge, Yost learned to navigate the workload by leaning into the firm’s collaborative culture.
“I’m constantly communicating with higher partners that have more experience. I learn by doing and they have taught me how to do things I have difficulty with,” Yost said.
The supportive environment at CORE CPAs proved to be a highlight for Yost.
“It makes me feel accomplished. I found something that I’m good at and that I really enjoy doing,” he said.
Yost said he’s learned many things working for this company and is excited to see where it can take him.
“I consistently work with my coworkers to figure out which tasks I can work on so I’m not idle. It’s helped me gain basic work experience and allows me to prepare for the future to help clients in the best ways possible,” Yost said.
Yost found this internship through a family member who encouraged him to apply. He received help from the Hastings College Career Services staff that helped prepare him for the application process. He also spoke to classmates who enjoyed their internships at the same company.
In the classroom, accounting professors Carmen Van O’Linda and Dave Carpenter provided the foundation Yost needed to succeed in the field. “The things I learn in class and the assignments I do have all helped me work towards this internship and prepared me for the workload,” Yost said.
Yost plans on graduating in May 2026 and will work towards his certified public accountant (CPA) designation. He hopes to use his time at CORE CPAs to complete those requirements before taking the CPA exam.
“This will help propel my career. I find it fun and enjoyable and it allows me to connect not only with other people, but my family as well,” Yost said. “I can’t wait for my first client because I love helping people, and this is a way I can do that.”