Ashley Torres & Montclair State University

Ashley had always planned on becoming a doctor. But in her senior year at Mary Help of Christians Academy, Dr. Tom Haring, Director of Student Services, counseled Ashley to try an accounting course. Initially resistant, Ashley quickly realized this course of study was a natural fit. After earning the highest grade in the course, asking her mom’s advice, and praying about it, Ashley decided to dedicate herself to becoming an accountant.

Currently on track to graduate from Montclair State University in Spring 2019 with a B.S. in Accounting, Ashley won’t stop there. Her goals include earning a Master’s degree in Forensic Accounting, working for one of the “Big 4” accounting firms, and then on to the FBI. “I find investigation interesting – finding fraud,” she shared. Ashley recently began working as Audit Intern at KPMG.

Growing up in Paterson and later moving to Haledon, Ashley shared that her mom, Silvana often worked two or three jobs to support her and her brother, Fabrizio. “That motivated me to try harder in school and help her out,” said Ashley. “She inspired me to succeed… and along with my school, gave me the values to become the person I am today.”

A dedicated student and enthusiastic volunteer, Ashley’s drive and values are resulting in success both academically and outside the classroom. Graduating in the top 5 of her class at Mary Help, she is currently part of the Alpha Lambda Delta Society, an honor society at MSU, and has a 3.5 GPA. She is a member of the Accounting Society and is treasurer of CHOLO, a Peruvian non-profit  that plans to raise money to create scholarships for high school students and to benefit the homeless.

Ashley is very grateful for her education and to the teachers and mentors who have helped her along the way. “Without Dr. Haring, I wouldn’t have been able to understand all about the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)…he helped me apply and now I’m helping Fabrizio to apply for it too.”

Ashley also has a message for Tri-County donors. “I want to thank them for all the support that they have given me and others. If it weren’t for them I wouldn’t be where I am right now. Because of them I’ll reach my goals.” Dr. Haring agrees, saying, “Ashley is quite the talented and motivated student who will certainly continue to excel.”