Undergraduate Student Perspective

Ruchi, Accounting Major

Why did you decide to study business?

I entered Belmont as a Pre-Pharmacy major.  Through my first semester courses, however, I quickly realized that Pharmacy was not something I was passionate about.  I wanted to find an area of study that interested and challenged me.  After taking Integrated Accounting, I realized that accounting was the field I wanted to pursue.  One of the most important tools that any business, institution or government needs to be successful is accounting.  I believe that studying business, and specifically accounting, will provide the opportunity for me to learn daily throughout my career. 

Why did you decide to study business at Belmont?

The most important factor in my decision to study business at Belmont is the academic climate of the school.  The amazing student-faculty ratio helps create an atmosphere for engaged learning.  I believe small classes enable students to develop a close bond with faculty.  Those relationships are especially important for me as a student from a non-English speaking background; my teachers have made the effort to clarify concepts that are new to me.  Small classes give me an opportunity to interact with other students and receive individual assistance as needed from the professor.  Further, Belmont not only focuses on education, but also the importance of being involved in the Belmont community and beyond.

Has it been what you expected?

The accounting program at Belmont has been more than I had expected.  The professors at Belmont have really taken the time to get to know me.  They have even made time to guide me throughout the interview process and with my internship.  I have been challenged in many ways through my business courses.  The staff in the Undergraduate School of Business are also sincere and willing to help in any way possible.

What have been some of your best Belmont College of Business experiences?

I have really enjoyed being involved in various organizations at Belmont.  Since my freshman year, I have been a member of the College of Business Administration Student Advisory Board.  One of the events that I have enjoyed most was a community service event I participated in last year.  We volunteered for the Titans Food Drive and collected canned goods for those in need.  I have also been involved in Beta Alpha Psi, an honor society for accounting students, and have tutored business students who are taking accounting courses.  It has been rewarding to help others gain a better understanding of accounting.  I'm also very thankful to have been a part of the TSCPA Accounting Academy and for the many networking opportunities I have had with business professionals in the community. 

What do you want to do with your degree?

After earning my undergraduate degree, I plan to continue through the MACC Program at Belmont to obtain my Masters of Accountancy.  I also plan to sit for the CPA exam while working on my graduate degree and join a public accounting firm.

Why would you recommend the program to others considering Belmont?

My experience has been extremely positive.  The professors have really devoted their time, not just in helping me throughout my classes, but also in guiding me in my long-term career planning.  I think the students at Belmont are also very driven to succeed and want to help others.  The culture at Belmont is very welcoming, and I have learned many life lessons that I will carry with me into the future.  I am very proud to have been able to attend this prestigious university.