Challenge accepted: Accountancy student steps outside her comfort zone
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For senior Tayler Nanni, Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business has helped her grow in the early stages of her career. The accountancy student from Almont, Michigan, has prospered through on-campus involvements, academic achievements, professional experiences and personal relationships.
Having transferred to WMU after completing an early college program at Mott Community College, Nanni was unsure of what her path would look like. However, WMU Haworth welcomed her with faculty and peer connections.
“When I first transferred to Western, WMU Haworth set me up for success in so many ways. Through classes like Business Preparation for Transfer Students, I was able to meet new people and build lasting relationships that I still value today. The class also encouraged me to get involved both on and off campus, which helped me step outside my comfort zone and develop professionally.”
As she experienced the everyday rigors of college life, Nanni learned the importance of community as a transfer student.
“Being involved in NABA Inc., Beta Alpha Psi, and the Accounting Club has helped me build strong connections with other students across campus. These relationships have made a real difference—there’s always a familiar face in class or a group of peers ready to study and support one another through challenging coursework. Similarly, our NABA Inc. faculty advisor and assistant professor of accounting, Dr. Brittani Shantel Jackson, has been an incredible mentor and support to me. She continually offers genuine encouragement and helps me believe in my potential.”
Last spring, Nanni worked as a tax intern for Hungerford where she focused on tax preparation at their Saint Joseph, Michigan, office. Her responsibilities included organizing client documents, as well as using current information to complete client tax forms. She says, “Throughout my internship, I gained hands-on experience with a variety of tax documents, laws and regulations, learning how to apply them effectively to benefit clients. In April, I also had the opportunity to assist clients with filing extensions for their tax returns, which was a valuable skill to learn as I move forward in my career.”
While her career is just beginning, Nanni’s time at WMU Haworth is coming to an end. With both academic and professional experiences under her belt, Nanni shares some words of advice with her peers.
“There’s an incredible network of people at WMU who genuinely want to see you succeed and will support you every step of the way—but it’s up to you to put yourself out there! College can feel intimidating at first, especially when everything is new, but I truly believe personal growth happens when you venture beyond familiarity. Get involved, join clubs, talk to your classmates, and don’t be afraid to try new things—you never know which experience or connection might become the steppingstone to something amazing.”
Learn more about accountancy at WMU.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.