FAMU Accounting Major Kendall Travon Wood Selected for Prestigious KPMG Internship Program
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Kendall Travon Wood, a fourth-year accounting scholar at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), is making his mark in the professional world through a competitive internship with KPMG, one of the Big Four global accounting and professional services firms. Selected as an Embark Scholar, Wood is gaining valuable insight and experience this summer at KPMG’s Jacksonville office.
The Embark Scholars program exposes high-achieving underrepresented students to real-world business challenges while providing mentorship, training, and a glimpse into the firm’s diverse service areas — including audit, tax, and advisory.
“This internship represents a major step forward in my career,” Wood said. “I’m learning directly from seasoned professionals and gaining insight into how I can add value in corporate spaces without compromising my authenticity.”
A typical day in Wood’s internship includes virtual team meetings, networking with fellow scholars, and training on topics like professional development and the growing role of generative AI in corporate systems.
“I wasn’t expecting AI to play such a huge part in the daily workflow,” he added. “We’re constantly being trained on how to integrate it seamlessly into our everyday work — it’s exciting and challenging.”
Wood credits FAMU for preparing him to navigate this professional environment with confidence.
“FAMU taught me how to make a lasting impression,” he said. “I wear a suit to work every day, and without fail, someone comments on how I present myself. It’s not just about the clothes — it’s about the pride and professionalism this university instills in us.”
But what resonated most with Wood this summer is the lesson that excellence doesn’t require perfection. At the start of the internship, he felt pressure to be the “perfect” professional, but he soon realized that being authentic was his biggest strength.
“I made a bigger splash when I trusted my development and just showed up as myself,” he shared. “People connect with you more when you’re real. That’s what leadership looks like.”
As an aspiring CPA, Wood hopes to use his experience to support underserved communities through financial literacy, ethical accounting practices, and inclusive leadership. He encourages other FAMU students to apply themselves and take advantage of opportunities on and off campus.
“Put your best foot forward, even when no one’s watching,” he said. “You never know who’s connected to the next door you’re meant to walk through.”
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
