Q:Why did you choose D'Amore-McKim?
A:I chose D'Amore-McKim because I wanted to be in a program that challenged me to apply myself beyond my assumptions of my own capabilities. Above all, I wanted to be in a program where I could practice what I was learning. D'Amore-McKim is the best choice for an MSA program that not only teaches you content, but applies what you've learned in reality.
Q:How has the abbreviated, 7-month length of the program benefitted your career progression?
A:The accelerated program has benefitted me both personally and academically, and has influenced my career. A majority of the classes were structured in a way that helped me prepare effectively for my CPA exams. I see the difference from being in the classroom where I got hands on help, verses studying the CPA material on my own. The level of intensity and speed triggered my ability to learn swiftly.
Q:What skills did you build at D'Amore-McKim that you will use in your future career?
A:In just 7 months, I developed advanced analytical and critical thinking skills. I also noticed a significant development in my technical skills. On a more personal note, my self-awareness has enhanced. I make time to reflect, and identify areas where I need to improve or need to seek additional help from faculty members. These skills have helped me to become the best version of myself in order to be an asset in any career.
Q:Is it important to you that your professors have real-world accounting experience?
A:I never realized the significant difference it makes to have a professor who has a solid accounting experience until I began the program. The professors in the MSA program demonstrate complete understanding of the material they teach. They are great at articulating the material and breaking down elaborate concepts to the understanding of their students. I was amazed by their ability to connect the academic material to real world situations. They use both their personal experiences and current events to enhance student engagement.
Q:Do you plan to apply your credits earned in the MS in Accounting towards a Part-Time MBA in the future?
A:I definitely plan on applying my credits towards an MBA. D'Amore-McKim sets up their programs to encourage students to go beyond the ordinary. I anticipate earning an MBA because I'm convinced that I will learn even more and experience a different aspect of what D'Amore-McKim has to offer.
Q:Are you participating in any student clubs, such as 360 Huntington Fund, or IDEA? If so, could you please tell us about your experience and how it added value for you?
A:I am not participating in any student clubs, but I did get the chance to work on IDEA. The software is quite complex, but with time it all comes together. I loved using the software because it's a lot more hands-on than most classes. It's the true definition of “learn-by-doing”.
Q:What would you say to a prospective student considering D'Amore-McKim for their accounting degree?
A:I would tell a prospective student to be relentless and always seek counsel. There will come a time where you'll lose interest, lose motivation, or feel like you don't know what is going on in class. The beauty of it all is that those challenges and hard times are when you are learning the most. Nothing good comes easily; if it did, everyone would be doing it.