Meet Some of Our Accounting Students

I was drawn to the Upside-Down Curriculum, high job placement, and small classes. When first looking at colleges, I wasn't sure what size I was really looking for, but I am so glad I chose a small school. The connection you build with both students and faculty is something that can be extremely challenging in larger schools, but can be transformative during a student's time in college.

I have been a commuter and residential student, and I think the best thing about Champlain's community is the family-like dynamic. Whenever I am walking to or from classes, I am bound to run into someone I know, and I never hesitate to say hi and check in to see how they're doing!

I am involved in Stiller Women in Business (SWIB), currently serving as the President. I also serve as a Resident Advisor. I have been involved in SWIB since my first semester of college, and I love the mission of the group and all of the wonderful people I have had the pleasure of meeting and getting to work with. As for the RA position, I chose to take on this responsibility to be a resource for students and provide a safe space for them to confide in if they do not feel like talking to a professional staff member.

My classroom work in Federal Taxes I, Personal Finance, and Financial Management prepared me to not only understand and be able to perform tax preparation for our clients, but also to give advice regarding personal finances. At Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), I am able to talk with people who do not have a great foundation of financial knowledge and further their understanding of it while also being able to point them in the direction to find further assistance if they need it.

My internship experience provided me with applicable job knowledge that will set me apart from other applicants. Following VITA, I will be interning at Gallagher, Flynn, and Co., where I will get experience in public accounting as well, providing me with a diverse work history in my field and showing that I have been getting a well-rounded and career-oriented education. 

I was surprised by the amount of utility provided to students. The college places a huge emphasis on the advancement of knowledge and encouraging students to broaden perspectives and think freely. Anywhere you look on campus, there is architecture designed to allow you to comfortably sit and work within an environment to suit the needs of any individuals' workflow. If you want to be outside in the sun, there are patios with beautiful views and walls with broad granite tops-a perfect place to sit with a book or laptop. If you want the vibes of a startup, there is a lounge in the business school with couches, clear whiteboards, and modern aesthetics. Every inch of the campus seems to be built with student productivity being the first thing in mind.

I would advise students who are considering Champlain to come onto the campus and interact with some of the faculty here. The small classes and committed teachers have really made the experience for me at the school. If you are looking to be an anonymous figure in the back of a large lecture, this isn't the school for you. If you have a desire to achieve great things and work hard toward your goals, the school will support you along each step and ensure you have every tool you need to find success. Champlain College isn't a place for everybody, but if you have a strong personal drive toward success you will find everything you need to assist that drive at this college. 

The Accounting major is currently a little small, but that doesn't take away the experience. There's nothing quite like being Facebook friends with your professors. The connection that professors and students have goes beyond the classroom and Linkedin. Nicole Morris and Cathy Duffy (and Jen Vincent even though she isn't Accounting), are such great professors who help you with any questions you may have. Pat Boera in the Career Collaborative is also a major blessing, encouraging students to gain experiences related to their career paths. All of the faculty and professional staff want to see you succeed and do well, and they are more than willing to help.

The Upside-Down Curriculum has tremendously benefitted both my education and my career. I've taken part in numerous live client projects and several internships during my time here at Champlain, which have only helped me to develop myself as a professional while also being a student.

I am involved with the International Business Roundtable. It's great to partake in weekly discussions about current events, and I leave every meeting having learned something new and heard numerous different perspectives on a scenario. Additionally, each fall and spring semester, the organization takes a trip to Montreal. We visit different consulates and engage in discussion with them! 

Stiller Women in Business is another organization that I was involved with. I joined my first year by just attending events. In my second year, I transitioned to a Finance role and then to the role of President in my second and third years. My favorite event was the semi-annual networking event! It was great to have professionals and students mixing and working on their networking skills.