Profiles

Areas of Interest at SCU and Leavey: Although I am currently Business Undeclared, I am interested in Accounting. SCU and Leavey have given me so many opportunities to connect with alumni and industry professionals. Gaining insight on the day-to-day work life along with the company culture of the firms grew my interest in accounting. I'm also looking into studying abroad to broaden my cultural perspectives and learn more about the international business world.
What are your SCU and Leavey activities/general hobbies: Aside from the Leavey Ambassador Program, I frequently attend Accounting Association events and meetings. I have not only been able to meet accountants with many different backgrounds, but I've also gained a glimpse into the different service lines accounting has to offer. Being a freshman not having taken ACTG 11 yet, these events have played a huge role in learning more about the industry. I am also involved in Women in Business. I attend their membership meetings each quarter as well as their guest speaker events. These events are really insightful as members can gain advice and hear the stories of different empowering business professionals. My general hobbies include teaching dance on the weekends, trying new restaurants with friends, and going on late night walks.
What internship/employment opportunities have you taken advantage of at Leavey? In order to strengthen my resume, cover letter, and interview skills, I have attended several workshops at the Career Center. I also utilize Handshake by attaching my resume and cover letters to internship applications. This is useful as most applications are done through the Santa Clara Handshake account, which recruiters will be able see. The most notable opportunity I have taken advantage of is Leavey's incredible alumni network. Not only have I been able to network with recent graduates who have received return offers, but I've also connected with recruiters as well. By attending career fairs, alumni panels, and reaching out through LinkedIn, I have been able to slowly grow my network and build amazing connections.
Favorite Leavey Class and Why?  My favorite Leavey Class so far is BUSN 70: Contemporary Business Issues. As one of the first courses every first year takes, I think this course is the best first step into learning more about different fields of business. My professor, Tim Harris, conducted every class in a professional, business conference-like setting. He incorporated important habits and practices that are necessary in the workplace during class and taught us valuable skills like professionalism, time management, and teamwork. One of the most notable parts of the class was the section on Accounting and Finance as I was able to gain a glimpse into a subject I was curious and passionate about. The other--and perhaps more popular part of the course--was the Mikes Bikes simulation. It was a great way to build teamwork skills while simulating business decisions.
What made you choose to attend Leavey? I still remember the moment that I decided I wanted to attend Leavey. After my student tour as a high school student–walking past Lucas Hall again–I realized I wanted to be part of this community where I could grow personally and professionally. I also loved how all the professors in Leavey have industry experience, allowing students to gain firsthand knowledge from an industry professional. The small class sizes also drew me in. I felt that smaller classes allow me to engage more with the class and give professors more time to give personalized feedback to students. After talking to Leavey Ambassadors and tour guides, I realized how SCU gives students a personalized academic experience where every professor, faculty, and advisor cares about each student’s improvement and success. 
What advice you wish you had while applying to college? I wish someone had told me much earlier on in the college application process to focus more on where I believe I can thrive and grow the most. It’s really difficult to make decisions when it comes to college, whether it’s where to apply, or which school to commit to. I think the most important aspect is not the “ranking,” or where others think you should go, but where you believe you can become the most successful version of yourself. When it comes down to choosing your school, it is so important to visit each campus and talk to as many people as possible regardless of whether you are learning about the academic opportunities or the social environment. Once you learn the culture and environment of each school, you will find the decisions to be much easier.