2017 National Testimonial Booklet

A Special Thank You NABA BARUCH ATTENDSNATIONAL CONVENTION & EXPO JUNE 6-10, 2017 New Orleans, LouisianaIncludes Participant  Testimonials

On behalf of the National Association of Black Accountants Executive Board of Baruch College, Iwould like to extend our deepest gratitude to the City College of New York, NABA New York, theBaruch Administration and our highly esteemed Alumni. We appreciate you for all your commitment,dedication and unswerving support to our chapter. Because of you, we were able to attend the 2017National Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana. NABA has been, without a doubt, the most fulfilling and exciting aspect of my college experiencethus far. I became a member in 2014 and have never looked back since. The experiences I havegained through this organization have been so rewarding and life changing. Through it all, I havebeen able to give back to my community, help my peers develop professionally and build a networkof professionals across the United States. Our 2017 trip to New Orleans for our NABA National Convention was a phenomenal experience.Our chapter has remarkably made an impact, while taking full advantage of any and all opportunitiesthat were offered at the convention. In attendance, the convention presented us with over 2,000members and corporate partners as we explored the convention’s theme, “Dare To Lead”. The NABABaruch Chapter had 19 students in NOLA, and 15 of those students were sponsored. Each and everystudent had the opportunity to interview and network with some the most influential companies andprofessionals across the nation.Before embarking on our trip, the chapter went through a real journey of preparing for a conferenceof this magnitude. Through resume workshops, mock interviews and industry informational events,we diligently prepared our students to represent Baruch College in the best light possible. I am proudto say that with your help, we have been making tremendous strides at improving and illustrating thedynamics of NABA Baruch year after year.In 2015, Baruch College came 1st Place at the 2015 KPMG/NABA Case Study at the National Convention. In 2016, Baruch College was awarded the Division 1 Student Chapter of the Year Award. And with great confidence, we delivered again and brought home the 2017 Division 1 Student Chapter Award for a second consecutive year. I am extremely honored to be a part of an organization that positively impacts lives in such profound ways. Because of your commitment, we will continue to represent Baruch College with nothing but excellence and prestige. We will also continue to pay it forward through service, scholarship, and mentorship. Without a doubt, I believe that every individual that attended this year’s conference embody all that NABA stands for. We promise that our Baruch chapter collectively as one family Brianna Farquharsonwill continue to “Lift As We Climb.” Chapter President

NABA BARUCH EARNS DIVISION 1 CHAPTER OF THE YEAR For a 2nd consecutive year; we are truly honored.\"Receiving the Chapter 1 Student Award was \"I learned that an organization like this invest so a well-deserved moment that will inspire much time into your professional development that you just have to return that full investmentNABA Baruch to stand firm in the vision and preserve a long standing legacy. \" - MD 100%. \" - Marlon Kitenge Fazley Fayel\"I wouldn’t be where I am today or even the leader that I’ve become without the love and support of NABA Baruch.\" - Blessing Nkama \"I arrived in New Orleans not knowing what to expect but I left knowing that I will be a lifetime member of NABA and most importantly emotionally recharged.\" - Alando McIntyre\"I never feel alone in my experiences shared with my NABA brothers and sisters. \" - Kevon Butts

The first time I had to write a testimonial about my experiences at the NABA EasternRegional Conference I was apprehensive and didn't know what to write. Now that I've attendedthe NABA National Conference in New Orleans I realize how much of a privilege being able toshare my experience is. Before sharing my experience in Louisiana, I should say how muchNABA has affected my college experience. NABA has singlehandedly brought me to higherlevels of personal, academic, and professional achievement. The more I participate andcontribute to this bold and rewarding organization the better I become at aligning my futureaspirations and building everlasting relationships. With that being said, NOLA solidified my participation in NABA for years to come. I'm alwaysamazed by the level of dedication displayed by the NABA professionals who travel hundreds ofmiles just to provide their time and support for soon to be and recent graduates. The sense ofsuccess, dedication, and pride that oozed from the melanin bodies that filled the Hilton NewOrleans Riverside that week was inspiring. I was able to make professional connections withindividuals at KPMG, Prudential, BDO, and Microsoft. More specifically, I had the pleasure ofmeeting Nigel Franklin, a professional working for KPMG. We connected on our place of birthand quickly built a relationship over the week. He shared his work experiences which openedmy eyes to the vast possibilities available to finance majors. Another professional who had animpact on my career goals was Lee Berry, the Risk Manager at Microsoft. He spoke aboutopportunities at Microsoft in finance related fields and spoke about the success of Microsoft’s2-year rotational program in retaining employees following completion. Since I’ve already workin technology, I was immediately intrigued by Lee’s words and sought to connect with himfurther. These connections, I believe will prove to be rewarding as I enter my final semester asan undergraduate and I have NABA to thank for facilitating that. I’m also grateful to NABA forthe opportunity to visit NOLA for the first time. Outside the NABA events, I was able toexperience all Bourbon Street had to offer. With its rich French culture and cuisine, NOLA isdefinitely a place I would like to visit again.Beyond that, I never feel alone in my experiences shared with my NABA brothers and sisters. There was a sense of togetherness shared among all of the NABA Baruch students that made the trip even more enjoyable. The level of commitment that NABA Baruch takes to provide members with the best tools and opportunities to succeed was displayed as we won the Division 1 Chapter Award for the second year at Nationals. There’s a sense of pedigree that rests on the shoulders of NABA Baruch that I’m always proud to rep and finesse with. When one student wins, we all win. Kevon Butts

As I sit to pen this testimonial, it is still surreal that I am a graduate of Baruch College, the first in myfamily. I started the journey to earn a BBA in Accounting at Baruch in 2002. I could no longercontinue after the first semester due largely in part to, my then, undocumented status and a lack offinancial resources. My trip to Nationals marked the end of a 15-year process.I boarded Jet Blue Flight 675 to New Orleans to, colloquially speaking, shoot my shot. Attendingthe conference, meant having only 60 dollars when I returned to New York but it was a sacrifice Iwas willing to make and in retrospect, a sacrifice I am glad I made. I arrived in New Orleans notknowing what to expect but I left knowing that I will be a lifetime member of NABA and mostimportantly emotionally recharged.My main objective at Nationals was to secure a full-time offer. But I also devoted a lot of time toparticipating in the volunteer opportunities. I ushered the Keynote Address/Opening Reception, Iscanned attendees into multiple CPE sessions and I was afforded the opportunity to volunteer atthe day of service event where I learned about financial literacy. The student sessions were veryinformative as I was able to speak with a variety of professionals and get input on career optionsand insight into the accounting profession. The opening session hosted by KPMG was the mostfulfilling. We were asked to write motivational notes and place them inside books and school bags.These bags would then be given to three local schools that were chosen to receive books for theirstudents in the class of 2017-2108, most of whom it would’ve been the first book they’ve own.At the career fair and expo, I met two women that embodied the NABA motto, “Lifting as We Climb,”Ruby B. Cato and Patricia Adams. Both are lifetime members, Ruby retired from public accountingto run her own consulting firm in Curacao and Patricia works for Experian. Ms. Cato offered toreview my resume, a conversation developed as I disclosed my intentions and the circumstances that led to me attending the convention. By the end of the conversation, Pat decided personally introduced me to some people at the convention and Ms. Cato offered a check to help with some of my expenses. It was during this moment I became resolute about becoming a more involved member of NABA. I wanted to be able to reproduce the kindness that Ruby and Pat’s showed to me, to someone else in a similar situation as mine. One for sure, is that I left the convention with a with a clearer sense of direction and I’m more aware of the options that are available to me. Having the opportunity to attend the 2017 NABA Convention, albeit self-funded, was a blessing and an enriching experience. I am already looking forward to Orlando 2018. I was reminded of an adage while in New Alando McIntyreOrleans, \"it is not the destination but it’s the journey that matters\".

I want to start off by giving thanks to the Almighty who has been faithful. His love isconstant and his mercies towards me are immeasurable. To him, I give all the gloryand thanks. I would also like to thank NABA, the family that took me in freshmanyear. They have and will continue to be one of the constants in my college career. Iwouldn’t be where I am today or even the leader that I’ve become without thelove and support of NABA Baruch.This year, I was honored to be the recipient of both the National and NABA NYScholarships. I was able to attend the 2017 National Convention in New Orleans onan all-expenses-paid trip. God is good! At the convention, I met tons of new people,students, and professionals alike, and formed close bonds with peers I was onlyvaguely familiar with. Being in the midst of black excellence inspired andreminded me to continue reaching for the moon. If they can do it, so can I. I'mimmensely grateful for my NABA Baruch family who took me and my fellow peers inand sacrificed their time and efforts to thoroughly prepare us for Nationals. They notonly equipped me and all the other Nationals Attendees with all the necessary toolsand knowledge to succeed at the convention, but they also made themselvesavailable during the conference to give advice and host mock interviews.I’m proud to be part of a chapter that incessantly embodies the NABA Motto: “Liftingas We Climb”. It is for this dedication that we were awarded the Division 1 StudentChapter Award for the second consecutive year. I’m happy to be a part of thejourney and I can gladly say that it has truly been an amazing one. I came out of this convention with an offer from one of the Big Four, stronger relationships with my peers and a broad network of professionals who are willing to lift as they climb. I am beyond grateful. To all those who worked incredibly hard to make this experience a phenomenal one, thank you. Blessing Nkama

As a reflected on my experiences at the NABA National Convention, I ponderedwhat more could I possibly say, because this was my third time attending theconference. In all honesty, I thought the convention would be an unsuccessfulexperience since I am a recent Graduate looking for full-time work after making aswitch from Finance to Human Resources. I was scared that not having figuredout what I wanted to do, like many students, would be a hindrance regarding jobselection. Moreover, the convention tends to target business related majors, suchas accounting and finance majors. I was apprehensive about not being able tofind any work. But, despite all the doubts in my mind, I made the investment anddecided to go.When I arrived at the convention I was greeted with a different tune than what Iwas expecting. I was able to make connections and secure interviews with RSMand Deloitte for consulting opportunities. Wells Fargo, Amazon, and Target forHuman resources opportunities and Synchrony Financial with their Credit Analystprogram. I am still waiting to see if I received any offers and I'm still interviewing.I must point out that if it was not for this convention, I would have overlookedmany of these typical accounting or financial firms because of the degree Iattained. I felt that my career track would not have been suitable, but that goes toshow that there are ample opportunities for students of diverse background atthe convention. Despite your major, there is always an opportunity waiting for you to embrace. This convention was nothing short of amazing. The speeches I heard and events that I attended were phenomenal. Everything that was displayed truly shed light on how NABA is making an impact in our lives and helping us pay it forward as we become more successful. Thank you for paying it forward. Tanya Tanis

First of all, I would like to give thanks to everyone who made it possible for me to attend the 2017NABA National Convention at New Orleans, Louisiana. During the convention, I had the opportunityto network with professionals from different companies around the United States. Additionally. Iwas able to learn more about my strengths and hone my leadership skills. The convention was notonly a professional event but it was also very exciting and memorable because I was able to makenew friends and build deeper bonds with my colleagues from Baruch College. Lastly, I witnesseddichotomy of being a professional, being able to have an exciting time and still being able totake care of business, while displaying a high level of professionalism.Because of the convention, I built a special bond with some professionals that would last a lifetime.While networking, I asked professionals about their work experiences, the culture at their company,and what made them choose the company that they are working for. This is crucial to me becausewhen I start my career as an accountant, I want to be able to wake up knowing that I am going intoa workplace where the people are friendly and where I would feel “at home”. Most professionalstold me that they had to work at a couple companies in order to find the right fit for them. Thismade me realize that the first company I work for may or may not be the right company for me, andthat is ok.The convention opened my eyes to so many things. I was given the best advice after meeting anemployee from RSM. It did not just stick with me throughout the convention, but it is somethingthat will definitely stick with me throughout my entire life. She told me, “just be you”. This made merealize that I am enough and I do not have to get overly tense or nervous. Companies want to speakto students who not only have good GPA’s but who also have a bright and joyous personality.In my lifetime, I’ve always heard the phrase “invest in yourself now and reap the dividendslater”. Although the phrase always struck me as cliché, this National Convention made me think otherwise. It is definitely a great investment. It is an investment that has many opportunities, which comes through work hard and persistence. I received an email from the recruiter at RSM US LLP. She said that she heard great things about me from the professionals at the NABA convention and she would like to call me sometime next week to further talk about my interest in the firm. This opportunity is one that I would have probably never gotten without NABA and without me being myself. Once again, I would like to thank everyone who made it possible for me to attend the convention and special thanks to the NABA Baruch e-board for allowing me to part of the great Baruch NABA chapter. Anthony Aquino

This year was my first year attending the NABA National Convention. I had suchan amazing time and I am very thankful for the opportunity to go. The Conventionallowed me to gain invaluable experience in the professional world. There weremany professionals that were always walking around and willing to talk to meabout the company they worked with. As a minority, I used to view theprofessional world as one that didn’t include me. I went into the conventionexpecting to be an outsider with the task of trying to get an accountinginternship for next year. This convention has totally changed my perspectiveon life, the accounting profession and the business world.When I first arrived, I spoke with many professionals who welcomed me withinconversation and smiles. This was when I started to believe that I belonged there.All the professionals were very nice, approachable and willing to talk with all thestudents. They were so invested in the success of the students as they embracedus with dialogue and excitement. I truly felt a part of something so great, soprofound and so transforming. No one looked at me differently because ofthe color of my skin, I was an equal to them and it felt amazing to fit in!I gained confidence in myself. I began to see that I could very easily become abusiness professional if I worked hard enough. This was very eye opening.During my interviews, I wasn’t as nervous as I usually am with interviews becauseI knew that they wanted people like me to work with them. I stood proudly as an African American “professional-in-training.” The Convention pushed me out of my comfort zone and for this I will forever be appreciative and a proud ambassador of the National Association of Black Accountants. Thank you to those have invested time, effort and funds into this experience. You make such a great impact in the lives of students like myself and I hope you continue to do so. Denisha Smallwood

THE NOLA EXPERIENCE

THE NOLA EXPERIENCE

Being able to attend NABA Annual National Conference in New Orleans this yearwas an amazing experience. There are so many professionals that come from allover the United States to seek talents from various universities and professionals.All in all, you never truly realize how many opportunities exist out there foryoung and driven professionals until you attend a convention of thismagnitude.When it was time for the scholarship luncheon, I was proud to see how manyBaruch students were awarded scholarships, more than any university that was inattendance. When they also announced that NABA Baruch Chapter was awardedthe Division Chapter for being the most prestigious chapter in the nation, that’s alevel of happiness that you can take great pride in when you’re called up to thestage to receive it on behalf of your school.Meeting so many different professionals in attendance was an overwhelmingexperience that I cannot put into words. Being there shows you how many peopleput the time, dedication, and effort into this conference for the undergraduates,recent grads, and young professionals seeking opportunities in the professionalsetting. I saw so many familiar faces and also many news ones that I madeconnections with.I learned that an organization like this invest so much time into yourprofessional development that you just have to return that full investment 100%. There’s no way I would be the young aspiring professional that I am today without NABA Baruch. I am very grateful for that. Currently, I am in the midst of deciding between offers and I would not even experienced that without the help of Baruch College’s support to all the students they assisted in getting to that conference. Thank you all for making our dreams come true. Marlon F. Kitenge

My name is Ismail Bakere, and I am currently a student at Baruch Collegemajoring in Finance & Investments. I would like to thank NABA Baruch Chapterfor offering me the opportunity to attend the 2017 NABA Annual Convention. Thiswas beyond my expectations.The 2017 NABA Convention was a fantastic opportunity for me. I was able tonetwork with many professionals in the field. I also had the opportunity tointerview with companies like Prudential, JP Morgan & Co, Johnson & Johnson. Iam scheduled for a final round interview with JP Morgan and Prudential for a full-time position. All of this happened thanks to NABA. Additionally, I could not bemore proud to be a student of the college that received the Division 1 Award for asecond consecutive year. I was amazed to know that outside of New York Cityour college is distinguished among many.I would also like to thank people like Shantel Deleon, Brianna Farquharson,Shaina Yasin, Marlon J. Kitenge, Trionne Tolson, Paula Heywood, our corporatepartners, and everyone else who helped to make this convention anunforgettable opportunity for me.My hope is to see this continue for years to come to help future generationsof NABA Baruch Leaders because this is a life-changing experience and I amsure it will be for many future NABA Baruch students. Thanks, NABA Baruch Chapter Ismail Bakere

The National Association of Black Accountants convention was an amazing learningexperience for me. I went from being extremely shy and sheltered to walking out ofthe convention feeling like I could network with confidence and that I am ready forthe next career fair or convention. During those three days, I went from lackingconfidence in myself to feeling empowered and wanting to be better personallyand professionally.NABA is a great organization that empowers and builds powerful leaders. Theconvention was led by inspirational speakers who taught us not to feel defeated,that everything happens in its time and that every difficult moment has its lesson.These words will stick with me for a lifetime. I spoke with several professionals whotold me about books to read on how to be successful— “The E-myth Revisited” byMichael E. Gerber is one that I’ve already ordered. Professionals at the conventiontaught several tips and strategies about how to be prepared for interviews; forexample, how to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method which isdissecting a situation by describing the task itself, actions and the result to fix theproblem.Before the convention, I was set and ready to take my last classes at Baruch this fall;however, our mentor, Paula Heywood, advised me to take my time and do what isbest for me. Overall, instead of rushing to graduate, I took her advice and havedecided to graduate with a purpose and attain a better GPA. As a first-time attendee, the convention and NABA have helped me gain so much confidence in myself and has inspired me to keep going no matter the obstacles that I may be facing. Thank you for a worthwhile experience that I will l never forget and will always be grateful for. Marissa Mathieu

I would like to thank NABA Baruch for providing me with the opportunity travel toNew Orleans. Through this experience, I have expanded my network and gainedmore career opportunities. As African Americans, we’re considered the minorityaround the world but when I’m among my peers in NABA, I am uplifted. It bringsme so much joy to be among like-minded individuals with extraordinary goals.This was my first NABA national conference and I was not completely sure what toexpect. I was unaware that NABA distributed division awards for specific schoolsthat were the top 3 in the Nation. It was an honor to be a part of the chapter thatwalked away with the Division 1 Student of the Year Award. I’m looking forward toretaining the Division 1 Chapter Award for the next years to come for the future e-board.Attending this convention has helped me align my perspectives, to remain focus onthe means to the end. It is important for members to experience conventions like thisbecause professionals are willing to give excellent feedback on the route that onemay take to get to your end goals. The interactions, the conversations and theatmosphere motivated me to become a better me. I’ve been empowered to staydriven, work on the areas where I lack, but to hone into my strengths. I am soappreciative for the opportunity because I was also able to interview with Johnsonand Johnson. Thereafter, I was selected to be a part of their Summer LeadershipProgram this August. As a young professional, I am so blessed to be surrounded by people with an organization that truly embodies all that it stands for. I will forever be grateful for my NABA Baruch family as continue on my path of success. To conclude, the gala was definitely one of my favorite events because I am reminded that professionals are also human beings. Sherri Shepard was amazing. I’m told that each year there’s a person who exemplifies Black Excellence who is pick chosen to host the Gala. Sherri and I were able to get Lukea picture. Marseille

NABA's National Convention has been a great resource to my personal andprofessional growth. As an active member of the NABA Baruch chapter, it has beenan amazing experience to be apart of something much more bigger than myself.Because NABA's National Convention, I have stepped out of my comfort zone andmet a number of professionals, learned a lot about different companies. As astudent, being exposed to this type of environment, has been a phenomenalexperience that has helped broaden my thoughts and understanding ofCorporate America.At the conference, we received the Division 1 Student Chapter Award for the secondconsecutive year. The amount of support I've found through NABA Baruch has beenexceptional! Receiving the Chapter 1 Student Award was a well-deservedmoment that will inspire NABA Baruch to stand firm in the vision and preserve along standing legacy.The Career Expo/ NABA Networking Lounge was one of my favorite events duringthe Convention. There were full-time job opportunities, internships and leadershipconventions for students. These particular events help sharpen student'snetworking skills through unlimited interactions with professionals.“How robotics is shaping our profession” was also another major event that I had astrong interest in. Nihad Rahman, the head of planning and analysis at JP Morgan shared his thoughts along with the many technology trends in the accounting profession. I strongly believe, all the events come together and makes a bigger impact for someone like me; it allows any individual to grow in their personal and professional arena. I would like to thank everyone who put their time and efforts into making this conference a memorable experience. Last but not least, I would like to give a special appreciation to my NABA Baruch Chapter for helping us navigate through the Convention! MD Fazley Fayel

For me, the 2017 National Convention was such a magnificent experience. Theenergy and atmosphere in NOLA was filled with lingers of innovative thoughts,ideas for success and healthy competition. I often say,\" our life is an inter-connected plan to the success of others\". I instantly knew this was going to be alifetime experience. Professionals at the convention were there to help students likemyself get their foot in the door and pave the way as someone did for them.My core purpose in attending this convention was to network with professionals andobtain an internships or full- time opportunities. But of course, this conventionallowed me to do more than just that. I was able to create new friends and bond withmy fellow Baruch peers in a special way. I had a phenomenal time and I was sohappy that I was a part of such a great occasion. The professional event sessionswere so informative and I was able to attend a few workshop that enabled me to gainsome insights about different industries and how to be successful in the businessworld. I was able to interview with a few companies and also accomplish my goal ofsecuring an offer for the upcoming year.For the culture, I truly enjoyed all aspects of NOLA, especially Bourbon Street. If youare having a hard time socializing or interacting with people, all you have to do is tovisit that street and all your problems will be solved. I have never came across such ahappy group of people. They were so content with what they have and it really amazed me how they embraced life with twirls and turns as if there is no tomorrow. Bourbon Street, in itself, taught me a lesson. Conclusively, the time I spent with my peers and the NABA family and new friends created memories that I will cherish a lifetime. It was an awesome journey, I thank and appreciate everyone who contributed to the success of this chapter. Thank you NABA. Once again, Thank you very much. Franklin Ndonku

My time at the 2017 National Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana was anindescribable one. I had a phenomenal time and was able to meet a ton a greatpeople. I was also able to create friendships that I know will last a lifetime. This wasmy very first National Convention with NABA and after my first experience, I wasdisappointed that I didn’t attend more throughout my studies.During my time at the National Convention, I was able to network with many greatprofessionals from several big companies. Some of these companies included J.PMorgan Chase, EY, Prudential, Robert Half, RSM, EY, KPMG, Walgreens, Nike, Target,Deloitte, and many more. As a graduating senior this was a great experience for me. Iwas on the hunt for a full-time opportunity and the National Convention Career Fairpresented this opportunity. I handed out my resume left and right to professionalsand one of the things that I appreciated most from the National Convention was theatmosphere. Everyone at the National Convention was very nice and helpful. I wasable to get real career advice for the future from tons of people. At the career fair atthe National Convention, I was able to participate in a video challenge through acompany called RSM. I wasn’t able to win the 1,000 dollar prize but it was fun justparticipating in the video challenge with my friends. This exposure made be realizethat there is something out there for me and I am glad that I am surrounded byindividuals of the NABA Baruch Chapter who are willing to invest in me and enableme to see my full potential. I would really like to thank the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) for giving me the opportunity to participate and attend the National Convention. It is a great outlet to develop and grow as a professional. I would recommend any student or any professional who has the opportunity to attend a the NABA National Convention. I look forward to attending more conventions in the near future. Gregory Davis-Clarke

Special Acknowledgements

Thank You For Your Support ~ NABA BARUCH Developed BY:  Ashley  BelgraveEdited by:  Brianna  Farquharson,  Ashley  Belgrave