Major: Accounting
What is your current position/career?
I am currently a Senior Auditor at Deloitte, working in their Boston Audit & Assurance practice.
What inspired you to obtain a degree in Accounting?
Originally, I entered Cal Lutheran as a business major, and without a definite idea of a career I wanted to pursue. Upon completion of Principles of Accounting my freshman year, I discussed with Professor Edward H. Julius, CPA what the next steps would entail if I desired to learn more about the field of accounting and determine if this was a career I truly desired and could see myself in. Upon following his guidance, I made the ultimate decision to change my major and I have not yet regretted this decision. The accounting faculty provided a strong pillar of support I needed to complete my degree and I have built a solid network of professionals through my attendance of Accounting Association meetings, where I received my internship and full time work offers. I have come to admire and love the versatility of the degree I graduated with and due to it I look forward to what the future has in store for myself.
I realized that accounting was a field that I am surrounded with intellectual and creative thinkers because of the situation we deal with in the real world invite us to think of innovative solutions to better serve the community we live in. Cal Lutheran’s community helped shape the person I am today and I look forward to bringing back my knowledge both to Cal Lutheran and the professional world.
How did Cal Lutheran and/or your accounting program set you up for success in this position/career?
Cal Lutheran’s accounting program provided me with a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices. My professors incorporated their industry and/or public accounting experiences into their lectures, offering real-world examples that better prepared me for corporate America. In my accounting senior seminar, we met with professionals in various accounting and finance roles, which helped me envision my career path post-graduation. The supportive faculty and numerous networking opportunities helped me build essential professional relationships and gain industry insights.
What skills or proficiencies did you acquire at Cal Lutheran, through your studies or other activities, that you now use in your current position/career?
At Cal Lutheran, I developed critical skills such as flexibility and the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These skills have been indispensable in my current role, where I frequently work with a variety of clients and team members. The academic environment also honed my analytical and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for auditing where the answers are not always black and white. In my University Honors classes I worked alongside peers from a variety of majors, which broadened my perspective and enhanced my collaboration skills. This experience has been invaluable in my interactions with professionals from various practices within the firm and externally with clients in a multitude of industries.
In general, what were some of your favorite aspects of the accounting program? Such as research, classes, professors, etc.
One of my favorite aspects of the accounting program was the support I received from professors like Professor Julius, who continued to assist me even after graduation. Additionally, the smaller class sizes allowed me to know the majority of my peers, which was beneficial for mutual support and collaboration. My business communications class was particularly impactful, as it provided opportunities to practice public speaking and work on group projects. This experience helped me develop a solid understanding of how to communicate confidently within my team and externally with clients, which has been an invaluable skill in my career.
What extracurriculars, clubs, or jobs were you involved with at Cal Lutheran? How did these experiences prepare you for your future career?
I was actively involved in several extracurricular activities, including the swim team, working at the Pearson Library, and being a member of the Accounting Association. Being on the swim team taught me how to balance work, social life, and fitness. It also emphasized the importance of teamwork and seeking help from coaches to achieve personal goals. My job at the library helped me manage multiple tasks, engage in creative projects, and assist others. One of the most rewarding aspects of my current job is teaching my team and colleagues the lessons I’ve learned during my career. As a member and secretary of the Accounting Association, I networked with professionals and explored various career paths in accounting. This role also enhanced my project management skills, as I coordinated with firms and businesses to bring professionals to campus.