Three Questions With VITA’s Samantha Gonzales

On real-world tax prep and the people skills she’ll carry into industry.

What’s it been like to work prepping real-world tax returns?

I was personally scared on the first day—it was nerve-wracking for sure. But coming in got a little bit easier every morning—not necessarily the workload, but just being in this space. So, I’ve seen my progression through that, and just getting more comfortable in the situation.

What’s been the best part?

Seeing our class going from training sessions to actually being in the field is really cool. It also feels nice to get to know the clients and to see how we can impact our community by volunteering.

What’s been the biggest takeaway?

Just knowing how applicable what we study in our books is to real life, especially because it’s an actual program by the IRS. Plus, knowing what to say and the small conversation starters—that’s a type of development I feel like I needed.

“Seeing our class going from training sessions to actually being in the field is really cool. It also feels nice to get to know the clients and to see how we can impact our community by volunteering.”