The annual ritual of filing returns doesn’t have to be taxing — at least, not with help from NC Accounting students.
Third-year students from the Business Administration-Accounting program are busy crunching numbers during peak filing season by running a free on-campus tax clinic. The clinic offers NC students help with their tax returns while equipping Accounting students with hands-on experience with clients in the process.
After launching on March 23, it will continue Wednesdays at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus (N305) from 12:30-3:30 p.m. until April 9.
While tax clinics have taken place on campus in the past, this is the first year that it has been organized within the program’s capstone course.
Professor and Accounting Program Coordinator Kerri Simich noted that 17 students are participating in the tax clinic as part of their capstone course, where they have an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout their program in a real-word setting.
“This initiative was designed to provide students with a structured, hands-on learning experience where they can apply their academic knowledge to real-world tax preparation,” said Simich. “At the same time, it serves as a valuable resource for fellow students who require assistance with filing their tax returns.”
The tax clinic operates in collaboration with the Canada Revenue Agency’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) which provides training and resources to ensure that students are equipped to complete tax returns accurately and in compliance with Canadian tax regulations.
“By integrating this program into the curriculum, we are creating a meaningful learning opportunity while fostering a culture of service and professional responsibility among our students,” Simich said.
Committed to finding ways to enhance experiential learning for students, Simich established and organized the tax clinic within the capstone course this year. She noted that tax preparation is an essential skill for accounting professionals, and the opportunity to work directly with clients provides students with practical experience that goes beyond what can be taught in a classroom.
“I wanted to create an opportunity for students to develop technical skills using tax software, improve their ability to explain tax concepts to clients, and build their confidence in handling real-world tax scenarios,” said Simich. “Beyond technical expertise, the clinic helps students strengthen their communication, problem-solving, and client service skills — all of which are critical for success in the accounting profession.”
Third-year Accounting student Arthur Franco found participating at the tax clinic to be a rewarding experience as well as a valuable learning opportunity.
“More than just applying what I’ve learned in class, it’s about making a real difference in someone’s life. For many students, filing their taxes can be intimidating, inconvenient, and expensive, but the clinic removes all three barriers,” said Franco. “Because we’re fellow students, the setting feels more approachable and supportive. The location is right on campus, making it easy to access, and most importantly, it’s a free service for participants.”
He also noted that he is building his portfolio as he prepares to graduate and take the next step in his career.
“I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned at NC in a real-world setting, build confidence, strengthen my communication skills, and gain experience working directly with clients,” he said. “It’s hands-on work I’m proud to include on my resume.”
As an international student from Mauritius, Nitusha Dookhitram had never filed taxes or even heard much about the process before coming to Canada. Through the NC tax clinic, Dookhitram filed her own tax return for the first time, and had a chance to help fellow students.
“What once seemed like a complex and intimidating process has now become an essential skill that I can confidently apply in my future career,” she said. “This experience has reinforced my passion for accounting and given me hands-on exposure that will be invaluable as I work toward becoming a CPA.
“It’s incredible how something I had never even encountered before is now shaping my journey in such a meaningful way!”
Accounting student Charisse Busante views the tax clinic as a way to give back to her peers by offering free tax services while gaining experience with technical skills and beyond — like problem-solving, attention to detail, confidence working with clients and more.
“Being able to do taxes for fellow students allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained from my tax courses while also challenging myself in a real-world setting,” said Busante. “This experience not only strengthened my technical skills but also enhanced my ability to communicate with clients, helping them navigate tax-related questions and concerns.”
Second-year Greenhouse Technician (Co-op) student Abdourahamane Omarou was among those who attended the tax clinic for on-campus help with their tax returns. He thanked Busante for her help.
“Truly appreciated! I’ve always been selective about where I do my taxes, and I’m glad I chose your service,” he said. “Couldn’t be more satisfied.”
While final numbers of students assisted through the tax clinic are not yet known, Simich anticipates that they will have helped a significant number of students by the end.
“Providing this service is especially important for students who may be unfamiliar with the Canadian tax system, such as international students or those filing for the first time,” said Simich. “By offering accessible, professional guidance, we are ensuring that students can file their taxes correctly while also educating them on tax policies that may benefit them, such as available deductions and credits.”
Appointment slots filled up fast and the clinic has fully booked but walk-ins may be accommodated if time permits. Students who are interested in receiving tax assistance but do not have an appointment are encouraged to check the clinic’s website for updates on availability.
Visit the NC Tax Clinic website for information.
