GFOA Scholarship Spotlight: Claria Cabrera

Claria Cabrera is Budget Analyst at the City of Inglewood in Southern California. She started as Senior Accounting Clerk and moved from Payroll Technician and Program Specialist before her current role. This year her goal is to become Senior Budget Analyst. She received a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology from the University of California, Irvine, and an Associate of Science degree in Accounting from Santa Monica College. She is working on her Master of Science in Professional Accountancy degree at California State University, Northridge. She plans to get a CPA license and work in an executive position at the City of Inglewood. She will use her knowledge to lead by example and serve the community's citizens and leaders. She values efficiency, transparency, and accuracy and believes that accountability and sustainability are essential pillars of government.

Q & A with Claria

Where and what are you currently studying, and why did you choose this?

I am pursuing a master's in professional accountancy at Cal State University, Northridge, to prepare further educationally and professionally. I chose Accounting because, over time, I realized how important it is as a business language. Mastering accounting will help me guide any government agency in understanding its financial position and provide excellent recommendations to manage the resources available to serve its citizens. 

What government are you working in or hope to work at in the future?

I work for the City of Inglewood and hope to make a positive impact by applying the knowledge I learn to my current role as a Budget Analyst. Understanding the city's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and hopefully being involved in the process is something I look forward to. 

What are your future career goals?

In the next three years, I will be an Accounting Manager. In seven years, I will strive to carry a city that leads by example and become a Finance Director.

How will GFOA’s scholarship help you achieve those goals?

I thank GFOA for awarding me the 2023 Government Finance Officers Association's Professional Development Scholarship. I will use this gift to finance my master’s degree. I am excited to attend the GFOA conference, and most of all, I look forward to receiving the training that GFOA will provide. I will use GFOA's mentorship to excel as a Finance Officer and give the best of myself. I strive for efficiency and transparency—working in an environment where everyone works harmoniously for the common good.