Grad SHUdent Spotlight: Why I Study Finance and Accounting at SHU

Why did you choose to study at SHU?

One of the main reasons I chose SHU was because I earned a spot on the cheerleading team my first year. I also had gone to small Catholic schools my whole life, so the sense of community here at SHU was extremely appealing. As a first-year student, I didn't know specifically what I wanted to study, but I knew I wanted to do something with business. I had heard great things from people who came here and read online reviews, so I came in as an undecided business major.

What made you study finance and accounting at SHU?

When I took my first accounting class during my sophomore year, I was very interested in the material, enjoyed doing the class assignments and did well on homework and exams. I declared an accounting major at the end of my sophomore year and decided to take some finance courses my junior year to see if that was something I wanted to add on. I enjoyed my finance classes just as much as accounting, so I chose to be a double major. The finance major went hand in hand with accounting techniques and processes, and it has helped me in my overall knowledge of the finance world.

Can you describe any benefits or advantages of studying finance and accounting at SHU?

Corporate finance is one of the required classes for all finance majors, and it was the best class I have ever taken. The class is fast-paced with a heavy workload, but I gained so much fundamental knowledge in finance and accounting. I was able to receive an Excel certification through this class as well. Professor Bridget Lyons has so much experience and is an amazing professor who cares for all her students’ success.

How did SHU’s finance and accounting programs set you up for a successful career?

There are so many resources for students to get internships and potentially full-time jobs. Students can frequently attend job fairs and connect with professors and alumni. SHU also offers trips to firms and companies where students can see an office environment and meet professionals in the field. I was lucky enough to visit JP Morgan in NYC during my junior year, and I learned so much. I am very thankful for how much the business school does for the students in terms of post-graduate plans and internships.

This summer, I have an internship at Ernst & Young with the assurance it will potentially lead to a full-time job offer. I am very excited for the future because there are so many career options in both accounting and finance I will be able to pursue.

Why have you chosen to get your MS in accounting at SHU?

I always knew I needed to get my master’s to obtain 150 credits and sit for the certified public accountant (CPA) exam. I looked into programs at other schools in the New England area, mostly to expand my resume by going to another school. However, I realized none of them compared to the program at SHU. I had a great experience during my undergraduate education, so I am excited to stay another year at SHU.

Interested in studying finance and accounting at SHU?

SHU’s finance program will help you to master the theory, analytical and technical expertise you need to become a standout finance professional. SHU’s accounting program puts practical accounting concepts into action as you analyze financial information, develop reports and learn about regulations. For more information on these programs, reach out to undergraduate admissions at enroll@sacredheart.edu or 203-371-7880.

SHU also offers an MS in finance & investment management program for students to hone their finance knowledge and an MS in accounting program to prepare students to be the accounting professional that high-powered organizations seek. For more information on these programs, schedule a meeting with Ed Nassr at nassre@sacredheart.edu or 203-396-6877.

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