Investing in opportunity: Wes Nichols’ growth at WMU Haworth

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For senior accounting student Wes Nichols, Western Michigan University's Haworth College of Business is full of resources to achieve success. Nichols, from Port Huron, Michigan, stands out as a dedicated student and an ambitious professional. Through the many programs available to students at WMU Haworth, Nichols has not only thrived in his academics, but in his career.

“The team at the Zhang Career Center is always available and close by to assist when needed. I participated in their Business Externship Program a few years ago, which is a resource that I believe every student should use to get in-depth experience on a career path they are interested in before committing to a major. The program provided me with a great opportunity to meet professionals from a variety of different career fields I was interested in and helped me narrow down my career choice to accounting.”

Once Nichols was confident in his major, he pursued further experience in accounting through an internship, working as an audit intern for UHY LLP, an international professional service firm. In his position, he was responsible for preparing financial statements and a variety of other documents. Nichols was exposed to immersive training in public accounting, especially during a busy season. 

Nichols has furthered his education through experiences like studying abroad, as well.

“I studied abroad in Ireland, which gave me invaluable insights, both professionally and personally. I was able to bond with fellow students and learn about new accounting standards being put in place in Europe.”

It is through connections—like the ones he made during study abroad—that Nichols has developed a sense of belonging at WMU Haworth. “As you work through your major, most days you see the same professors and students,” he says. “Developing those relationships and supporting each other’s successes has created a feeling of an academic home that has made me proud to be a member of this college. If you have a goal at WMU Haworth, you have people who want to see you succeed, and they are ready to help you get there.”

With plans to graduate next spring, Nichols is looking forward to the world of opportunity that awaits him. Supported by his hands-on training and professional interactions, Nichols is paving the way for a successful career and bright future.

Learn more about accountancy at WMU. 

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