video interview
Ashton
Year: Junior
Major: Accountancy & Finance
College: Business (BUS)
One-on-One
What are your favorite places to study, hang out, and relax?
I have to be in a quiet place to study, so naturally my favorite place to study is Grainger, the Undergraduate, and ACES libraries and the DKH computer lab. I like going to various events on campus, such as Cotton Club, Step Down, and Black Chorus events. I enjoy hanging out with my friends. Every weekend is an adventure. My weekends are my time to relax and have a good time.
What clubs or organizations on campus are you involved with?
I am a part of the Technology and Management Program, which is a prestigious minor within the colleges of Business and Engineering. I am the president of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA), an organization that strives for learning as much as we can about business/MBA/GMAT and each other. This is a great organization because we go on field visits to large companies. We have a yearly conference that we attend that has a plethora of opportunities for our students, such as internships, networking and scholarships to name a few. I am also a part of the 100 Strong organization, which is a group of students who come together to develop strong leadership, academic and community skills. This program introduced me to some great students on our campus who have become my closest friends. Another organization that I am part of is the Minority Leadership Group (MLG) that strives for education through working together. During our meetings, we discuss strategies to do well at the University.
Why and how did you choose your major?
I have been passionate about business since I was a young child. I had no idea at the time that I wanted to pursue accounting. When I was applying to college, I told my mom that I wanted to be a pharmacist. She asked me why, and I said because my father said I should be one. She then told me that I have been running my own business for several years, why not continue to hone those skills in college. Thinking about her advice, I applied to Illinois’ College of Business. I have recently selected accountancy and finance as my majors.
Describe your most memorable experience at Illinois.
Being selected as entrepreneur of the year was incredible. It was an honor.
What is your advice to prospective students?
If you have questions, ask them. Visit your professors regularly and sit in the front row of your classes. Get help when you need it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. That’s what you’re here for.
Video Interview
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