Clare White

From undecided to accountancy major

Clare White found her place in the accountancy major after talking with many of her peers about their experiences in the business college. When fellow students described their accounting coursework and internships, White felt excitement to learn more. “Many business students are undecided when they first reach Western, and I recommend inquiring about the different majors with all kinds of people. The great thing about WMU Haworth is that everyone is willing to share their thoughts.”

In fact, White’s experience is typical. Approximately 50% of business students initially enter college as “business undecided.” In White’s case, both informal conversation with business students and more formal student organization activities helped her gain insight into the field that was the best fit—and where she felt a true sense of belonging. “Between the business fraternity Delta Sigma Pi, Women’s Business Network and Accounting Club, I have met the most wonderful people that instantly made me feel included and wanted. They offer unconditional friendship and support, and I am so thankful to be a part of these organizations.”

Though White is only a junior, she has already had several key moments at WMU. “My highlights in my undergraduate education include all the activities I have been able to be a part of through the business college. I have participated in a company tour in Chicago, semester formals, and a business-forward fashion show. I also work at the college’s Zhang Career Center as the employer relations and event planning associate and have learned so much, made many connections, and gained an insider’s perspective on the best way to interact with employers.”

In White’s journey, she has met many supportive faculty and staff, but the chair of the Department of Accountancy is the mentor she values most. “Dr. Jim Penner has been crucial to my success as a student. He is the nicest person I have ever met, and his office is always open for students to ask questions no matter how busy he is. He has helped me build my confidence as an accounting student, aided me through the process of applying for an internship, and is always available as a resource whenever I have any questions or issues.”

And Dr. Penner’s advice on internships paid off for White, who spent the spring 2024 semester working as an accounting intern at EY where she focused on auditing projects. “Collaborating with different teams was very meaningful; the EY staff is great about explaining the workload and the reason why we do what we do. I have learned so much through working in the field!”

With an eye for building her accounting skills and her capacity in a variety of business settings, White plans to participate in the Ireland business study abroad program, a short-term study abroad opportunity taking place in summer. Students will visit Limerick and Dublin, Ireland, to explore Global Sustainability Accounting Reporting Standards.

“I am beyond excited for the opportunity to study abroad with WMU Haworth this summer. Some of my peers participated in this program last year and spoke very highly about how much they learned, how beautiful Ireland is, and how their perspective on sustainability within the accounting profession was enhanced.”

The Ireland study abroad experience dovetails perfectly with White’s plans for her future. “After graduation, I hope to work for one of the Big Four accounting firms in auditing. This would enable me to be flexible in my location and allow for lots of travel, which I think would be very exciting right out of college. I am grateful to the business college for its vast menu of experiences so that students can position themselves for success.”