Unlocking Opportunities: My First Steps in Ohio State’s MAcc Program
My first week at The Ohio State University has been a whirlwind of activity and excitement. From orientation to free pizza in the grad lounge, I've already made new friends and begun gaining valuable personal and professional experiences.
Shortly after arriving on campus, we dove into the MAcc orientation, a required event for all new MAcc students. This year, it took place over three days (Monday through Wednesday) during the week before classes started. The leadership of the Fisher College of Business and the MAcc program organized a series of meetings and events specifically designed to prepare us for success in the program and to secure employment after graduation.
Classes for the Autumn ’24 semester began the Tuesday after orientation, and I quickly found immense amount of value in them. The MAcc staff are deeply committed to helping each of their students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. They emphasize that our primary goal is securing a job, and our coursework reflects that, with a strong focus on real-world cases that prepare us for the professional field.
One class that stands out to me in particular is my Financial Reporting course. We've already delved into several case studies that mirror the kinds of problems we’ll face in the workplace. It’s clear that the program isn’t just about learning theory—it’s about applying that theory in practical, meaningful ways. This hands-on approach is exactly what I was hoping for when I chose Ohio State.
Two of the highlights of my MAcc experience so far have been the abundance of resources available and the personalized attention from staff and professors. During my first week of classes, I've had the chance to connect with each of my professors. During my undergraduate studies at another university, I found that engaging with professors during office hours and through email often provided learning experiences just as valuable as those in the classroom. That has certainly been the case here at Ohio State. Already, I’ve received valuable career advice from Scott Hunter, my Data & Analytics professor, and Steve Singer, the director of career management & corporate relations. Both were incredibly helpful in listening to my career goals, offering advice, and connecting me with industry professionals.
Beyond academics, the MAcc program's sense of community has been both welcoming and inclusive. I’ve attended a few social events, like the welcome mixer and a pizza party in the grad lounge between classes, where I had the chance to bond with my classmates outside of the classroom setting. These interactions have helped me build a network of peers who are supportive, motivated, and as eager to succeed as I am. It’s comforting to know that I’m not navigating this journey alone—we’re all in it together.
As I reflect on my first week in the MAcc program, I’m filled with excitement and confidence about the year ahead. The support from faculty, the practical learning experiences, and the strong sense of community have all reassured me that I made the right choice in coming to Ohio State. My advice to prospective students? Embrace every opportunity the program offers—whether it’s connecting with professors, participating in orientation events, or simply grabbing a slice of pizza between classes. Each experience will help you grow, both personally and professionally, and will set you on the path to success.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to dive deeper into my courses, continue building relationships, and take advantage of the incredible resources at my disposal. It’s just the beginning, but if my first week is any indication, this year in the MAcc program is going to be transformative.
