When opportunity knocks: WMU accountancy student lands internship with Stryker

Whether it is within the walls of the Haworth College of Business or working alongside professionals during her internship at Stryker, Megan Klein is always seeking new opportunities to learn. Her inspiration to do so comes from her professors, professionals and family. “My first accounting professor showed me how to tell important stories by only using a set of numbers,” says Megan. “My professional mentor showed me the extensive possibilities that an accounting career can grant me. My greatest teachers, however, are my parents, who taught me the importance of giving myself the gift of opportunity—which is my biggest inspiration in pursuing a degree in accountancy.”

This Business Bronco is also thankful to WMU Haworth for guiding her endless curiosity and supporting her learning goals. “The Haworth College of Business has shaped me into a student who appreciates the importance of being a lifelong learner,” Megan says. “The classes that I’ve taken here, and the people I’ve met have inspired me to consistently strive for more in my academic, professional and personal life.”

Megan has shown her desire to grow and master new skills with her involvement in the Pi Zeta chapter of Chi Omega sorority, the Accountancy Club, Alpha Lambda Delta and the Lee Honors College. In addition to her deep involvement on campus, she has also been the recipient of several scholarships, including the Edward J. Todd Scholarship, Alpha Kappa Psi Business Scholarship, Crowe Horwath LLC Outstanding Accounting Student Scholarship, Everett L. and Marian Holden Endowed Scholarship and the Michael P. Howell and Dr. Gale Newell Accounting Scholars Fund scholarship.

Megan is using her summer as an opportunity to continue to grow by working at Stryker as an accounting and finance intern. At their headquarters in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Megan works in corporate tax alongside a team of full-time professionals. She feels she is the perfect asset to their team because she aligns with their company culture and values. Confidence, persistence and an eagerness to always go above expectations are what help Megan stand out.

“Going into my interviews, I was very open about how I might not be the most qualified candidate they would talk to, but I was eager to learn and grow, and I believe that’s what set me apart,” she shares.

The interview process with Stryker gave Megan the encouragement to never doubt herself and her abilities. “One of the biggest lessons I have learned so far is the value of confidence and perseverance. The ability to stand up for yourself and believe in yourself at the same time, even in times of uncertainty, is incredibly important when working toward becoming a respected woman in business.”

As Megan enters her senior year this fall, she is embracing all the opportunities that are still out there waiting for her. “What I’m most excited about in my field is the chance to travel, expand my network and continue to learn. I will never be done learning!”