Accountancy student puts industry learning into action at WMU Haworth

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Accountancy student Hosanna Ndikumana is taking big career strides at Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business. The sophomore from Portage, Michigan, is growing through student organizations and business externship opportunities.

Being involved in student organizations has been essential to Ndikumana’s success at WMU Haworth.

“Through leadership roles in NABA Inc. and the Accounting Club, I’ve been able to grow professionally while connecting with peers and mentors who challenge me to think bigger. Career preview events, employer panels and hands-on projects have helped me explore different paths within accounting and refine my interests. NABA has given me a space where I feel seen and connected, surrounded by people who share my goals and values. It’s where I found my voice and started building real leadership experience.”

Ndikumana has found support throughout the college, guiding her to a fulfilling career. 

“WMU Haworth offers more than just coursework—it also gives me space to speak for myself. Through access, flexibility and intentional programming, I’ve been able to plan my degree around certified public accountant licensure and enrollment in the Master of Science in Accountancy program in the future while staying aligned with long-term career goals. Advising support and professional development resources have helped me advocate for myself and stay on track, even while balancing a heavy academic load. WMU Haworth isn’t just preparing me for graduation, it’s helping me build a career.”

For Ndikumana, gaining experience has come in other forms as well, such as WMU Haworth’s Business Externship Program. This past summer, Ndikumana got to visit five companies to learn more about what they do, their culture and their day-to-day operations. She explored Plante Moran, Mercantile Bank, Parker Hannifin, CBIZ, and UHY, gaining invaluable insight into each company. “The externship opportunities gave me a deeper understanding of each firm, its values and the variety of service lines it offers,” Ndikumana says. “The Business Externship Program was both inspiring and insightful, and I look forward to applying everything I’ve learned in my journey ahead!”

As Ndikumana looks toward the future, she is adding three internships to her impressive resume. She has accepted a position at Seber Tans PLC for spring 2026, an audit intern position with Wells Fargo for summer 2026 and a similar position with Plante Moran for spring 2027. The internships will provide Ndikumana with vital professional experiences as she strives towards her goals of becoming a certified public accountant and obtaining her M.S.A.

“Throughout my experiences, my professors have taken time to guide me, answer questions and support my growth beyond the classroom. The combination of community and mentorship is what has made WMU Haworth feel more than just a business school—it's a place to thrive.”

Learn more about accountancy at WMU. 

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