News Releases

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Mike Gaudreau

University of Kansas School of Business students are making April 18 - Tax Day - less daunting for hundreds of Douglas County residents this year.

“Not many people can fill out a tax return or give tax advice with confidence,” said volunteer and Master of Accounting student Ian Osler.

Osler, along with 29 other business and law students, is giving back to the community through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance this tax season. VITA, which operates in Kansas, Missouri and Illinois, offers free tax services to people who make less than $49,000 per year and do not itemize deductions.

“I find it rewarding to give back in any way I can,” Osler said. “My way just happens to be tax work.”

A feel good feeling is not the only thing students take away from this community service program. They also gain a thorough understanding of a field of business in which many of them may find careers.

“My work with the VITA program will help me in the future because of the invaluable experience I am gaining working with clients,” said volunteer and Master of Accounting student Mike Gaudreau.

Acquiring real-world experience while helping the community is one of the many ways the KU School of Business gives students opportunities to grow professionally and personally.