MAcc Student Orgs and Leadership Opportunities
Sarah recently asked about student organizations in the MAcc program, and about any corresponding leadership opportunities. I did some research, so I'll be sharing what I found - as well as an interview with Fiona Pan, President of the MAcc Council.
Just looking at the Fisher Graduate Student Organizations list, I counted 28 different student orgs. YEAH - that's a lot of student orgs. And the coolest thing is it is so easy to create a new group if somehow the group you're interested in doesn't exist! This is in addition to the hundreds of other student organizations that are not Fisher specific, but that you are more than welcome to join. I, for instance, have been actively involved with Team Buckeye, a group related to Pelotonia all year.
Having so many Fisher-specific orgs in combination with the general student orgs is great, because it really lets you mix business with pleasure. You'll have a great time in any org you choose, but the Fisher orgs tend to cater slightly more to your professional development. On the other hand, the general student orgs tend to allow you to really pursue your passions!
Holding leadership positions is a little bit more difficult in the MAcc program, as typically you'll want to be in the organization for a period of time before taking on leadership. That's not to say it can't happen though! Don't go into it assuming you won't get to hold a position simply because you're a MAccer!
Of course, the MAcc Council, which is made up of just MAcc students, is a great way to hold a leadership position. The MAcc council puts on a variety of community service, social, and professional events (such as the speaker series) for students. Further, the MAcc council represents MAcc students on the Fisher Graduate Student Association Board, which serves as a link between students and administration. The MAcc council holds elections early in the fall for its president, treasurer, and various vice president positions (such as VP of of Social Events, VP of Professional Events, etc).
Here's what Fiona Pan, our current MAcc council president, has to say on her experiences this year!
First of all, I really enjoy it a lot. We have really good team, and I guess one of the benefits of taking a leadership role is to know and work with your fellow classmates and faculties outside of class. Everyone in the council team is very creative and responsible in terms of event/social planning and following up. The support from the faculty members is tremendous. They are the ones who pass on the legacy every year and we really appreciate that.
Secondly, MAcc council is always trying to provide as many opportunities in professional development, community services and social networking as possible. Though we inherited some from previous classes, such as FETCH!, EY MAcc Speaker Series, VITA and MAcc Gives Back, we also want to have something of our own, creating a character for the 2012 class. By creating events, students will have a more comprehensive experience with MAcc, Fisher, OSU, Columbus, and even the U.S. Plus in the end, people will always remember the people and the good times they spent together in the program, and that is the tone we are trying to set.
Lastly, as you asked how to get involved with MAcc Council or any other student organization. It is easy, make sure you read your Council Email and sign up for whatever you feel interested in :) Take initiative on the projects you have passion with and enjoy your time in MAcc!
Well Sarah, there you have it - straight from the Prez! Getting involved is easy, and definitely something I would recommend. It's possible to take a leadership role, but being in the MAcc program does make it slightly more difficult. Just approach it with determination and you will be all set!