Commencement Spotlight: Briasia Tyus

Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Audit Analyst, Texas

Briasia Tyus, a 20-year-old native of Indianapolis, Indiana, will graduate on May 10 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the Albany State University College of Business, Education, and Professional Studies. 

Tyus made an extraordinary impact during her time at ASU through a variety of leadership roles and service initiatives. She was actively involved in campus organizations such as Students Advocating for Stronger Sisterhood, the Student Activity Advisory Board, Student Government Association, and the Velma Fudge Grant Honors Program. She also served as a Student Orientation Leader and was a dedicated member of both the Accounting Club and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) network.

Her commitment to service extended into the community, where she volunteered with organizations including Helping Mamas, Feeding the Valley, the YMCA, the Boys and Girls Club of Albany, and several local schools such as Merry Acres Middle School, Radium Springs Middle School, and Turner Elementary School.

Tyus earned numerous accolades for academic excellence and leadership. She was named to the Dean’s List from 2023 to 2025 and recognized as the Highest-Ranking Student in 2023. She was a participant in several prestigious programs and competitions including TMCF’s The Pitch and DevCon 2024, the Capital One Immersion Program, and the TMCF Leadership Institute. Her achievements also include receiving the Adobe and Deloitte Accounting Scholarships and winning the Truist Case Study competition in 2024.

Following graduation, Tyus will move to Texas to begin her professional career as an Audit Analyst for one of the nation’s largest mutual fund companies. She will also be pursuing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) starting this fall.

 

What motivated you to learn more about your field?

What motivated me to learn more about accounting was realizing how broad and essential it is in every industry. Whether it’s a hospital, a sports organization, or even the entertainment world — there’s always a need for someone who understands the numbers that keep the businesses going. I liked the idea of having a skill set that could take me anywhere, and the more I learned, the more I saw how much impact accountants have behind the scenes. That versatility really drew me in and kept me interested.

 

Why did you choose ASU?

When I visited Albany State my senior year of high school, I already knew I wanted to leave Indiana and experience something new out of state. Since I’d be far from home, finding a place that felt like a community really mattered to me. As soon as I got to campus, I could feel that sense of belonging and everyone was so welcoming. ASU felt like a space where I could grow and be supported and it has been an amazing journey of just that.

 

What do you love most about your chosen profession?

What I love most about accounting is how versatile and broad the field is. No matter where you go, there’s always a need for accountants. Accounting is essential to understanding and managing financial health. The flexibility to choose from so many different industries means I can pursue my interests while still advancing my skills, making it a career that offers both stability and opportunity.

 

Who has made the biggest impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?

The biggest impact on me has come from Mr. Christopher Moye in Financial Aid and Ms. Crystal Robinson in Institutional Advancement. When I first came to Albany State, I had a plan, but I knew I needed to network to make it happen. I didn’t come in with a scholarship or even know who to talk to about obtaining one. After reaching out to Mr. Moye and Ms. Robinson, they provided me with valuable resources for out-of-state students that helped me navigate the process.

Another major influence has been Dr. Patani, my first accounting professor. When I took my first accounting class, he made what could have been a challenging subject enjoyable and inspired me to continue pursuing accounting. His passion for teaching and his encouragement both inside and outside the classroom have been a constant source of motivation. I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today, about to graduate, without the guidance and support of Mr. Moye, Ms. Robinson, and Dr. Patani. Networking has been key to my success, and I will always be grateful for their unwavering support throughout my journey.

 

What is your favorite memory from your time at ASU?

My favorite memory at ASU is Ram Success Week (Freshman Week). It was during that week that I really soaked in all the information I could, knowing I’d be away from home for a while. I also met my first college friends. The sense of belonging I felt during my visit was just as strong during that first week, surrounded by welcoming staff and students who helped guide us in the right direction.

 

What advice would you give to other ASU students?

My advice to other ASU students would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way, even if it feels uncomfortable or uncertain. The journey here is about more than just academics, it’s about growth, both personally and professionally. Take the time to network, build relationships, and step outside of your comfort zone. Every challenge you face is a chance to develop the skills and resilience you’ll need after graduation. Stay curious, be open to new experiences, and remember that the effort you put in today will shape the success you see tomorrow.

 

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?

I would tell a high school student that choosing ASU is choosing a place where you can truly grow, be supported, and discover your purpose. The campus is welcoming, and the community is strong, you'll feel like you're part of something bigger. ASU encourages you to explore different opportunities and passions, helping you find what truly drives you. The relationships you build with professors, staff, and other students will inspire you, and the resources available will guide you toward success. ASU isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about finding your purpose and preparing for a future where you can make a real impact in and out of the classroom.