We'd like to give a shout out to our student leaders! Today, get to know Audrey Barclay '23, accounting and finance, who is president of Accounting and Professional Services Club. In addition to APS Club, she is Beta Alpha Psi Executive Vice President and Secretary of USI Speaking Eagles Toastmasters.
Why did you choose USI and the Romain College of Business and what makes them special to you?
I chose USI because it was close to home and affordable.
What are some of your favorite classes or experiences at Romain College?
My favorite class has been ACCT 390 Individual Taxation Practicum. In this class, students work in the VITA program helping low-income individuals with their taxes for free. Students take the knowledge they have from class and are able to use it in a real-world setting. I have enjoyed taking this class this semester. (Special shout to Professor Bueltel for teaching the class.)
Why did you choose your current majors?
When I started college at USI, I originally wanted to become an Occupational Therapist. After my first semester in college, I realized that I did not want to go into healthcare. I chose accounting because I loved math in high school. After taking accounting classes, I realized that I was going to be happy doing accounting in the future. I added a finance major to help achieve 150 credit hours needed to sit for the Certified Public Accountant examination.
What has surprised you about college?
College offers many opportunities to be involved on campus and in the community.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus and why?
I love the Romain College of Business Advising Center! I am a little biased because I am a peer advisor in the RCOB Advising Center, but it is still one of my favorite spots. The advisors are extremely knowledgeable, kind, and caring. They genuinely want every student to succeed and are here to help. I love working here and enjoy working with the advisors and peer advisors.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen? What do you wish someone had told you?
I recommend being involved. When I was a freshman, I wasn't involved and didn't make any connections with peers or faculty. I felt isolated and alone. Now that I am involved, I know many people and feel more connected to USI.
What made you decide to pursue being president of APS?
I knew I wanted to be a part of APS, but I did not know if I wanted to be President. Since this was my last year, I decided to go for it.
Tell us more about APS and why USI students should get involved with it!
APS is a great way for anyone interested in Accounting to hear from professionals in the community, meet others with similar interests, and meet some of the faculty that you will have in the future.
What are your career goals?
After I get my CPA certification, I would like to go back to USI and get my MBA.
Fun fact about you:
My favorite color is green.