Balancing Books and Banking: Local Alum Finds His Path
When Brandon Cuellar '26 graduated from Nashua High School South in 2022, he had a clear vision for his future: to pursue a career in business while gaining hands-on experience. He knew he wanted to build a strong foundation in accounting—one that would give him the flexibility to run his own business or take on high-impact roles in the financial world. But with the added challenge of working full-time, he needed a university that could accommodate both his professional ambitions and academic goals.
That’s what led him to UNH Manchester.
“I chose UNH Manchester because it provided me with a flexible opportunity to receive a higher education while working full-time and gaining experience through professors and industry professionals,” Brandon says. “With UNH Manchester being a mainly commuter school, I can drive in for my classes, learn and complete the work during my free time from my job.”
Discovering a Passion for Accounting
Initially entering as a general business major, Brandon quickly found his niche in accounting. He was drawn to its ability to shape the success of an organization, offering a clear picture of a company’s financial health and opportunities for growth.
“I took intro to financial and managerial accounting and picked up the material quickly,” he explains. “I became fascinated with how accounting informs the state of a business and where improvements can be made.”
As he explored the field further, he realized that accounting’s versatility and career potential aligned perfectly with his long-term aspirations. Now, he has his sights set on earning his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, a credential that will open doors to a range of high-level financial roles.
From Classroom to Corporate: A Future at PwC
One of the defining moments of Brandon’s time at UNH Manchester came when he landed a coveted internship at PwC Boston, one of the largest accounting firms in the world. The opportunity arose thanks to the real-world learning experiences woven into his coursework.
“I took a Business Communications class at UNH Manchester, and it helped me so much in my search for internships and career opportunities,” he says. “I learned more about my field, got interview tips and refined my resume. Thanks to all that preparation, I was able to secure an internship at PwC, and I feel like that will be a huge asset in my future job search.”
Brandon will begin his internship this summer—an opportunity that will give him firsthand exposure to the fast-paced world of corporate accounting and provide him with valuable industry connections.
A Close-Knit Learning Community
Beyond the coursework and career-building opportunities, Brandon says the tight-knit community at UNH Manchester has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his experience.
“Unlike traditional colleges where you might be in a lecture hall with 100+ students, our smaller class sizes make for a more comfortable and engaging educational environment,” he shares. “I can ask questions, build connections with my professors and even seek professional advice. They’re experts in their fields, and they’re always willing to help.”
The blend of in-person and online classes has also allowed Brandon to maintain a 40-hour workweek at a bank while occasionally working overtime—a balance that would be difficult to achieve at many other universities.
Looking Ahead
With two years left until graduation in 2026, Brandon is laser-focused on his CPA exam, his upcoming internship and the opportunities that lie ahead. He credits UNH Manchester’s flexibility, faculty support and career-driven education for setting him up for success.
Interested in a future in business? Learn more about the business and accounting programs at UNH Manchester and how they can prepare you for a career in any industry.