Hello! My name is Lilianna Larsen, and I’m a rising junior pursuing a double major in Accounting and Marketing. At Pitt, I am involved in the professional business organization Phi Beta Lambda, which has provided me with invaluable opportunities to connect with peers and professionals in the business world, enhancing my personal and professional skills. I grew up in a small rural town called Coudersport, Pennsylvania (basically in the middle of nowhere), and I have a twin sister who also goes to Pitt and is majoring in Accounting!
Choosing the University of Pittsburgh was an easy decision. I instantly fell in love with its vibrant campus, welcoming community, and lively atmosphere. Outside of academics, I love traveling, staying active, and embracing new experiences.
Professionally, I’ve dedicated my last few summers to working at a law firm, gaining significant exposure to the diligent world of legal documentation, with some babysitting jobs in between that sharpened my organizational and multitasking abilities. At the firm, I was responsible for drafting and reviewing deeds and other legal documents, a task that required sharp attention to detail and a strong understanding of legal terminology. I also managed the crucial process of closing client files and diligently organizing records, ensuring that all information was accurate and easily accessible.
Most recently, I accepted an Audit and Assurance internship with EY at their Pittsburgh office for Summer 2026. I’m incredibly excited for this opportunity to deepen my understanding of the accounting field and gain valuable hands-on experience with a leading global firm. This internship will undoubtedly provide me with practical insights into financial auditing and assurance services, linking the gap between my academic knowledge and real-world application. I am especially eager to learn about the various industries EY serves and to contribute to meaningful projects.
Currently, I am spending six weeks in the beautiful city of Florence, Italy, through the Global Business Institute. While abroad, I am taking courses in Renaissance Art History and International Marketing, offering a fascinating blend of cultural immersion and business basics.
I chose this program for several reasons. On a personal level, I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself in a new country with a distinct culture and language, gaining a deeper understanding of everyday life in Italy. This experience is challenging me to adapt to new environments and to appreciate diverse perspectives.
Academically, I aim to explore how international marketing differs across countries and learn strategies to adapt marketing approaches accordingly, providing me with a global lens on business practices. Additionally, I look forward to studying the rich history of iconic artwork that has been around for centuries.
My goals for this program are to deepen my understanding of Italy’s culture and to absorb as much as I can from my classes abroad. I also hope to strengthen my networking skills by engaging with people from different backgrounds and to develop the ability to adapt to diverse cultural environments, ultimately fostering a more versatile and globally aware professional identity.
