Sierra Foster

Sierra Foster’s journey began with a lucky break – her name being drawn for the Diana Springer Scholarship. Sierra graduated from Davie County High School in 2019. She received the Diana Springer Scholarship, a scholarship that covers tuition and fees for four years at UNC-Chapel Hill, based on early admission and the luck of the draw. “I began my college career as a chemistry and neuroscience major, working summers in UNC labs, but I realized I didn’t enjoy the environment. I explored pharmacy, optometry, even computer science. Then I sat in an accounting class and everything clicked” Sierra explained. The Master of Accounting (MAC) Mentee Program at UNC, sealed the deal for where she found her future career. After completing her dual bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Neuroscience, along with a UNC Graduate certificate in Applied Data Science, Sierra went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Accounting from UNC. “I liked accounting from the beginning. I could just see myself as an accountant. It’s not necessarily about math; it’s about categorization and that spoke to me” Sierra shared. Today, Sierra is a CPA-certified Staff Auditor with Ernst & Young in Raleigh, NC. “Without the Diana Springer Scholarship, I wouldn’t have had the freedom to explore different careers or spend time tutoring others,” she said. “It allowed me to graduate with a master’s degree in a great financial position.” Her advice to students echoes the lessons she’s lived, “pick the job or major that allows you to live the lifestyle you want and always be present, life isn’t about rushing to the end.” She emphasizes the importance of being honest about what you truly want, handling change with grace, and building connections with as many people as possible. The daughter of Allen and Marjorie Daniel Foster, she credits growing up working in Foster’s Jewelers for helping to shape her drive and determination. Like her mother, a 1985 UNC graduate, she’s a proud Tar Heel and sports fan, frequently attending UNC events. In her free time, she stays active with tennis and pickleball. Though she’s thriving at Ernst & Young, the future remains wide open. “Eventually, I’d love to blend science and business,” she said. “But for now, I’m learning and growing and I’m excited to see where the journey takes me!” To the donors who made her scholarship possible, she offers a heartfelt message, “I am very grateful for the opportunity to start life after college without crushing student loans. The Diana Springer Scholarship helped make this possible and I will forever owe deep gratitude to the donors!”