Double-major Shefrin selected as fall '25 Harbert graduation marshal

John Shefrin came to Auburn in fall 2021 from Scottsdale, Arizona, not knowing anyone. On December 13, the double major in finance and accounting will represent the Harbert College of Business as its graduation marshal, carrying the college banner and leading his fellow graduates into the commencement ceremony.

Graduation marshals are selected for their outstanding leadership, citizenship, character and promise of professional ability.

“I am so grateful to have this phenomenal honor and opportunity,” said Shefrin, who has spent countless hours serving the college and his fellow students through student organizations, mentoring programs and as a teaching assistant. “I am proud to be representing not only Auburn but the Harbert College of Business that I’ve contributed to for my whole college career.”

From Arizona to the Plains

Shefrin said his journey to Auburn was influenced by his family who encouraged the then high school senior to look beyond the universities that he was applying to in Arizona and consider applying to schools in the Southeast. He was unfamiliar with the Southern culture, but after visiting Auburn, he knew it was a perfect fit.

“Coming from Arizona, I experienced some culture shock for sure,” he said. “It was a completely different environment, and I was immediately drawn to the Southern culture, traditions and hospitality. It didn’t take long for me to know Auburn was home. It was a big change, but I knew I wanted to take a risk and try something new, and it has been one of the greatest decisions I have ever made.”

One of the best investments he made was getting involved in Auburn’s chapter of the accounting honor society Beta Alpha Psi (BAP), whose student members engage in dozens of service, networking and career recruiting activities each semester.

“My responsibilities are both technical and social,” said Shefrin, who serves as vice president of finance. “I make sure our financial records are accurate and efficient. As a BAP officer, I serve as one of the faces of the organization. Each success story we see in BAP is a reminder of how worth it is to serve this great organization.”

A member of the Honors College with a perfect 4.0 GPA, Shefrin’s service extends beyond Harbert College. He tutored fellow Auburn students in finance, accounting and economics courses through the Office of Academic Support’s Study Partners Peer Tutoring program starting in the fall of his junior year. He was awarded the outstanding new peer tutor award for his efforts.

“Tutoring has been an excellent catalyst for building my leadership skills. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing students gain confidence in their abilities and see the fruits of their labor,” he said.

The following semester, Shefrin was promoted to serve as a mentor for other peer tutors—a position that he continues to hold.

“As a tutor mentor, I get to represent the Office of Academic Support and hone my skills as a leader as I enter into the business world,” Shefrin said.

The next chapter

Shefrin plans to take the CPA exam this spring. He’ll then relocate to Dallas and start his new job as a financial market and real estate associate at PwC, a leading tax, audit and consulting firm where he’d completed an internship this past summer.

“I wouldn’t have been able to secure this opportunity if it weren’t for the Auburn faculty and resources available at Harbert College,” he said. “Finding an opportunity where I can leverage what I have learned from each major was my main goal.

“At PwC, I will be focused on helping clients, primarily banks and asset managers, determine and understand the value behind their investments.”

In the long run, Shefrin said he’d like to someday be a CFO.

“Since meeting John in fall 2022, he has always impressed me with his focus and drive,” said Colby Lakas, BAP faculty advisor. “Balancing a perfect GPA with leadership and service isn’t easy, but he makes it look effortless. He’s been a huge asset to Beta Alpha Psi, and I’m confident he’ll represent us well as he establishes his career in Dallas.”

Saying farewell

An avid sports fan, Shefrin said he’ll miss the electric atmosphere of Auburn football and basketball games.

“There really isn’t anywhere like Jordan-Hare on a game day,” said Shefrin, who recalls his first football experience. “It was pouring rain by halftime, but everybody stayed and cheered on Auburn regardless. No matter how Auburn is doing or what the score is, Auburn fans are always there to support. This support extends far beyond the football field—it’s a core value of the Auburn Family. I am going to miss the unique traditions and culture that makes this place special to so many.”

He'll also miss some key Harbert faculty staff and faculty.

Specifically, Shefrin mentioned Finance Professor Marlin Jensen, who taught financial strategy and whose expertise piqued Shefrin’s interest in corporate finance; Accounting Professor James Long, who “was so invested in us as students that it made me want to work harder in his class;” and Colby Lakas, director of recruiting and professional development in the School of Accountancy, who has been “a fantastic mentor…and will always give you her honest advice because she wants the best for the students.”

Overall, Shefrin is grateful for his Auburn education.

“I have felt supported and connected every day as an Auburn Tiger,” he said, referring to the resources the university and college provide students. “I have been able to build many enriching relationships and connections that will last a lifetime. Seeing others live the Auburn Creed each day has inspired me to follow and be an example [to others].”

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Learn more about Auburn University's fall 2025 commencement.