NABA Baruch 2016 Testimonials Booklet

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLET On behalf of the executive board, I would like to thank our alumni, the Baruch administration, the NABA New York chapter, and the City University of New York for their continuous support of our chapter. As a -result of your support, our chapter was able to attend the 2016 NABA National Convention in Hollywood, Florida. I joined the Baruch chapter during my freshmen year and it was one of the best decisions that I have made throughout my college journey. I have had the opportunity to compete in the 2014 national case study, complete five internships, attend several corporate leadership conferences, and develop a network of peers and professionals from across the United States. The past and current leaders of this chapter work hard to ensure that our student members are afforded the opportunities we had and more. We collectively aim to better ourselves and instill a sense of confidence and professionalism in our members. We work together to achieve our goals and always look to lend a helping hand. It is an honor and privilege to serve as this chapter’s president and to build upon its legacy. Our trip to Florida for our National Convention was truly a memorable experience. It presented our students with the opportunity to network with over 2,000 members and 70 corporate partners from around the world. Our students were able to take full advantage of the many opportunities available to them at the convention. The NABA Baruch Chapter had over 22 students and recent graduates in attendance and of those 13 were sponsored to attend the convention. We are delighted to share that all of our attendees had the opportunity to interview with some of the most influential companies across the nation. Prior to departing for the convention our chapter attendees worked diligently to prepare for the upcoming opportunity. With the help our alumni, senior leaders, and corporate partners we were able to provide our students with resume review workshops, networking tips, mock interviews, and industry informational sessions in order to ensure their success at the convention. As a result of this, our students were prepared to represent Baruch College in the best light possible. Last year Baruch College came in 1st Place at the 2015 KPMG/NABA Case Study at the National Convention. At this year’s convention, Baruch College was awarded the Division 1 Student Chapter of the Year Award. Four of our students were also recognized during the convention for various awards. We are very grateful to have alumni, administrators, and professionals who are committed to developing our students and helping to build future leaders. As a result of your efforts, we as chapter have been able to leave lasting impressions in the minds of professionals, recruiters, and major companies. It is without a doubt that our attendees understand the meaning of “Lifting As We Climb” and will continue to pay it forward through scholarship, service, and mentorship. It is our hope that our future students are able to gain such experiences and attend such influential conferences.Shantel Deleon Chapter President Photo: Betty DuVerger, Chapter Advisor (left), Shantel Deleon, Chapter President (right)

“When the time for nationals came around, I felt so honored and blessed to have been selected to be sponsored. My heart was overfilled with joy.” –Blessing Nkama “Although phenomenal, the convention was hard work. We worked together to prepare and help build each other up so that we could all succeed” – Allie Jackson“Had it not been for NABA, I do not think I would have gotten an opportunityof this magnitude.” –Carlyn Fleming “I am extremely grateful that I was selected to share a once in a lifetime experience with my fellow NABA members across the country. A huge thank you to the alumni, sponsors, administration, and everyone that had a hand in making this possible”– Dexter Kingston

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLET NABA is an organization that I have admired and longed to be a part of since the start of my freshman year. Initially, when I first joined the organization, I was intimidated by the student members, their professionalism and the close bonds that they had already formed with each other. I was afraid that I would not fit in. When I finally encouraged myself to step outside of my comfort zone and get involved, it really paid off because I was able to see the motto, “Lifting As We Climb”, come to life. The members of the chapter welcomed me with open arms and eventually became a support system for me. They were always willing to answer questions and sit down and talk whenever I needed help or advice. NABA Baruch had informed me about their annual convention. When the time for nationals came around, I felt so honored and blessed to have been selected to be sponsored. My heart was overfilled with joy. I am pleased to let you know that the opportunity to attend the national convention was everything I had hoped for and more. I was surrounded by numerous professionals who represented various companies. As a result, I was able to get a glimpse into the corporate world, an experience that I am deeply grateful for. This experience helped me grow as a young professional because as a result of it I was able to understand the value of networking and how important it was to express myself and my thoughts with confidence and eloquence. It was through networking that I landed an interview with Johnson and Johnson (J&J) and was able to receive an internship offer. It was through networking that I was able to connect with my fellow students and form stronger relationships. It was through networking that I was able to learn about various industries and opportunities available to me at the convention. I had interviews lined up at the convention before I even landed in Florida and I honestly did not know what to expect. My NABA family was very supportive and helped to calm my nerves. I was even prepped at the airport when I voiced my worries of not knowing what to expect. They were there to silence my fears and build my confidence. The people within NABA are so selfless and willing to help others grow into their best selves. The motto, “Lifting As We Climb”, is not a cliché because NABA really does lift others as they climb and I can say that from personal experience. I am proud to be among a family of such extraordinary people. I am thankful for the bonds and friendships that I have formed as a result of this convention. I connected with people in ways that I could not have imagined and I know that they will last for years and years to come. I came out of this experience learning more about myself and seeing evident growth in the professional aspect of my life. I also came out with two offers from two well-established and respected companies. This was a phenomenal experience, and I would like to say thank you to all of the individuals, both on and off campus, who played a crucial role in making this experience possible.Blessing Nkama

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLET I am extremely thankful to have been selected and sponsored to attend the 2016 NABA National Convention. I truly appreciate the investment that was made in my life by our sponsors. The national convention opened the doors of unimaginable opportunity. As a first-time attendee, I was not too sure of what to expect. I had heard from upperclassmen that “no one leaves Nationals empty handed” – or as we like to say “we’re all eating.” Since I had not experienced it first-hand, I did not understand what that meant. According to our NABA Baruch Year- End Review, there is also a higher chance of attendees receiving internships and full-time job offers. This results from the overwhelming amount of exposure we get to industry professionals at the Convention. However, I could not fathom how that would be possible. From the very first day, I found myself surrounded by extremely inspirational professionals from many walks of life. That alone was enough to motivate my “hunger” – my desire to succeed and network at Nationals. I remained proactive at the career expo and sought companies that I would not typically seek. As I was walking through the career expo, I stumbled upon RSM’s booth (RSM is a mid-sized accounting firm). Each company had unique elements to their booth; RSM had lights, cameras and a set for their annual Best Personality Video Contest. At first, I was not too sure what to say but I decided to shoot a video with them regardless. It presented me with an opportunity to network and have fun. Later on that night, RSM announced the winners of their Video Contest. It came as shock when I heard my name. Yes, I won $1,500 at NABA’s National Convention. I cannot believe it myself, I won a scholarship simply for being me. I also received the award in front of hundreds of students, professionals, and administration. With that, came exposure to more recruiters, a newfound confidence in myself and simply, the joy that comes with spontaneously winning something. Attending NABA’s National Convention taught me a number of lessons that I would not have learned otherwise. I learned to remain true to myself while chasing my dreams. Many tell you to “sell yourself”, however, I’d say, be yourself. I mean, I left for Nationals with a fairly empty pocket and came home a lot richer than I could ever imagine. I am not just talking about money. I am talking about the 50 new long-lasting connections- peers and professionals alike. I am talking about the experience of a life-time, and not to mention the internship offers that I received. The best part about Nationals is that what happens at Nationals, does not stay at Nationals. We bring all that we learn and the many networks and connections that we have fostered back to our campus, family, and friends. I would just like to thank those who made this opportunity possible.Simbiat Akanni

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLET As a new member to NABA Baruch Chapter I was honored to have been appointed to the executive board position of Chair of Membership, and was equally as honored to have been chosen to be sponsored for the National Convention in Hollywood, Florida. I was a bit apprehensive in the weeks leading up to the convention; upper classmen and recent graduates of the chapter were really focused on getting us new-comers prepared. They wanted to ensure that we were successful in achieving our goals but also that we made a great first impression at the convention. I am grateful for all of the preparation because I not only had a really good time in Florida, but was able to accomplish almost everything that I wanted to while there. I was able to make new connections with people from all over the financial services industry; accountants, bankers, even a lawyer or two. The individuals I met were really committed to NABA and valued the motto “Lifting As We Climb”. I felt that the interactions I had with individuals were genuine, and that the people I connected with had a real interest in helping me make the best of the experience; I am grateful to them as well. During the convention I was able to secure four interviews with well-established companies such as Wells Fargo, Microsoft, KPMG, and JPMorgan Chase. Upon returning to New York I was also contacted by Deloitte and RSM for additional opportunities. As a result of this experience, I have been offered and accepted a summer 2017 internship with JPMorgan Chase. I am elated with what has taken place, and would recommend Nationals to any member of the NABA student chapter. I appreciate my team, including past and present executive board members whom shared their personal experiences and groomed me for the convention. As a student or professional I will certainly be a regular attendee at the conferences from here on out because I had an unforgettable experience. Aside from meeting all of my professional goals at the convention I also felt that it was a great bonding experience. I was able to learn a lot about my fellow leaders, and felt like we solidified real friendships. I was also happy to indulge in the activities that southern Florida had to offer, hanging out poolside and on the beach after a long day’s work was the perfect cap to a great experience. I am again grateful and honored to be a part of such an illustrious group, and am looking forward to a year filled even more great experiences.Anthony Stafford

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLETThis year’s National Convention was nothing short of amazing. As a first time attendee, I wasastounded by the level of support and brotherhood portrayed by everyone in attendance. I metprofessionals and students from across the United States while at the National Convention. I wasshocked that each professional I met was eager to learn about my career interests and to sharetheir knowledge and personal experiences with me. The career and life advices I gathered will stickwith me for a lifetime.In speaking with professionals with years of experience within the fields of finance and accounting, Ilearnt that it is okay to be uncertain of your career path while in college. Many of the professionalsfound their passion through taking on different roles and responsibilities. It is no surprise that alongthe way they encountered some challenges. The numerous sessions I attended while there taughtme that it is important to remain curious, to seek out advice, and to always be open to learning newthings. Activist and actor, Lamman Rucker, who was the guest speaker at the convention spoke onmaintaining professionalism at all times. As a student, this was extremely beneficial since we live ina time where social media is at the center of almost everything we do and we sometimes forget thatevery post is traceable.In addition to networking at the convention, I also had the opportunity to interview with 5 companiesfor full-time positions and will be having second-round interviews soon. Had it not been for NABA, Ido not believe that I would have gotten an opportunity of this magnitude. Being a minority student, Ihave had to work twice as hard to gain interviews and internships among my campus community.But with the help of NABA, they emphasize, encourage and lay the stepping step stones for me andothers to be nothing short of greatness within and for the black community.I am extremely grateful to the NABA Baruch Alumni, the Baruch administration, the NABA Baruchexecutive board and everyone else who made it possible for us to be part of such an event. Mostimportantly, I am truly grateful to the founders of NABA for creating an avenue where peopleof color can come together to support, mentor, and provide opportunities for each other. Inow have a stronger bond with the members of NABA Baruch and a diverse network of studentsand professionals. I am eager to continue giving my full support and offer my assistance in anyareas so that this opportunity would be available for other students like myself for years to come.Thank you!Carlyn Fleming

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLETIf there was a word to describe my experience at the NABA National Convention, it would beamazing. Last year I went to the NABA Eastern Regional Convention which was a great experiencebut it was nothing like Nationals. The National Convention felt like a whole other ball park. From theprofessionals, to the interviews, to the events, I had a great time in Hollywood and I learned a lotfrom this experience.One of the things that I appreciate the most from this experience was a chance to improve myskillsets which are very essential to everyday life as well as in the professional world. I was not pre-selected for an interview and thus I had to network in order to get one upon my arrival at theconvention.As an introverted person, I find it extremely difficult when I have to talk to people that I amunfamiliar with, give a pitch or attempt to sell myself to top companies. However, thisconvention gave me the opportunity to work on my soft skills. It was tough at first but I canproudly say that I was able to earn invitations to private networking events with RSM and JP MorganChase. I was also able to land interviews with KPMG and JP Morgan.As everyone knows interviews can be stressful and even nerve wracking, especially for someonewho is an introvert. The interview can be a very arduous and long process. However, as theconvention went on my interview experience got better with practice. I have been on manyinterviews for top companies such as Deloitte, Prudential and Morgan Stanley with NABA Baruch’shelp; however, I was not able to secure an internship being that my interviewing skills were not up topar. The NABA National Convention provided many opportunities for me to practice interviewingand build upon my soft skills during the networking events. I was able to show my personality andprofessionalism to companies. As a result of this, I was able to step out of my comfort zone andsuccessfully secure my first offer with JP Morgan Chase for an internship in the summer of 2017.Lastly, another positive experience that I would like to share is the fact that I was able to connectwith so many different people. For example, I connected on a whole new level with my fellow NABAmembers. It is one thing to say that you know people from an organization that you are in at school;however, it is completely different thing to say that you have a bond with those people—a bond thatyou know will last a lifetime.Although phenomenal, the convention was hard work. We worked together to prepare and helpbuild each other up so that we could all succeed. All in all, I had a great experience at NABA's2016 National Convention and hope that other students are presented with such anopportunity. It was such a learning and life changing experience. Allie Jackson

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLETBrianna Farquharson

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLET It was an honor to represent the Baruch College Chapter at the 2016 NABA National Convention in Hollywood, Florida. I truly appreciated it. I was delighted to meet professionals and get more acquainted with my peers from Baruch College. From taking off in New York City to Florida there were a variety of events that awaited me. There was the opening session, the development workshops, networking, the career expo, the interviews, the scholarship luncheon, the awards gala— just to name a few. The Convention had exceeded my expectations. It was fantastic! Each moment was an excitement whether I was with a group or attending the events alone. There were tons of interactive workshops and networking opportunities. I was looking to improve my skillsets and develop professionally thus all of these events were very relevant and useful to me. I made sure that I was up early because I did not want to miss any. The first event I went to was hosted by KPMG. From this event, I took away tips on how to make the most of every moment and maximize my time at the convention. KPMG also spoke about how they make impact in the community by writing messages on literacy packages that were sent to children. It meant a lot to me to learn about their community involvement. The evening was filled with networking hosted by prominent companies such as PwC, Microsoft, Hilton Worldwide, Johnson and Johnson (J&J). I eventually made the decision to be brave and began to speak up and network with J&J professionals and in minutes I was being offered an opportunity to interview with them. To me, while every aspect of the convention was special, attending the career expo was the best. The career expo made me realize how willing and eager these companies are to invest in the youth. Having interviewed with Johnson and Johnson, Walgreens, and Deloitte, I was able to gain a better understanding of what companies look for in candidates. My eyes have truly been opened to a new horizon and I know am able to better prepare myself for future interviews and put myself in a position to secure an offer. The opening reception of the convention was memorable; it was rich with entertainment, foods, drinks, dancing, and networking and the night was nothing short of amazing! Throughout the entire convention, Baruch College was in the spotlight. The national scholarship luncheon seemed to be dedicated to us because we received the Division 1 Student Award and our current chapter president was among the 3 brilliant Baruch students who were recipients of the 2016 NABA National Scholarship. At the Awards Gala, a surprise video of one of our members made the entire audience laugh, she received an award because of her personality. Not to mention that I at the Dinner & Gala, I was presented with the chance to network with previous presidents of the National NABA Board. The 2016 NABA Convention and Expo would not be possible without your support. I hope that other students have the opportunity to experience a NABA convention. It is life-changing and can help to better prepare us for our future careers. Thank you to all of the sponsors who made it possible for me to participate in this experience.Islamia Adjibi

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLETI was excited to attend the NABA National Convention. I had been told stories of it being an amazingexperience where anything could happen and I curious to know if this was true. In past, I have traveledto the Eastern Regional Conference (ERC) and I pictured the National Convention to be somewhatsimilar. While ERC was a great experience and helped to build on my professionalism, the NationalConvention was very different.As I arrived in Florida, I checked my e-mail and was saddened to see that I still had no interviewsscheduled. As result, I attended as many events that I could and tried to make the best of myexperience. Eventually I bumped into some professionals from JP Morgan. In speaking with them I wasable to express my intellect and interest in the firm. Later that same day, I received a message for aninterview. I made it all the way to a second round interview and received an invitation to their CorporateSuite at their hotel. The same thing happened for some other companies I was able to network with withsuch as RSN, PWC, Deloitte and The Hilton Hotel. I have not yet received a direct offer, but I am glad tosay that I was able to make valuable connections that would last a lifetime.I hope to one day explore the field of consulting. I gained exposure to firms such as EY, RSM andDeloitte along with many other companies offering consulting as a practice which has only fueled mydreams even more. See that's the thing about Nationals, the opportunities are endless. There weremany corporate companies, many workshops to help provide industry insight, and various opportunitiesfor internships and full time offers.Another great highlight of the convention was seeing our college winning the Division 1 Student ChapterAward. It is the award that was given to a NABA student chapter that goes above and beyond by hostinga variety of events and maintaining a wide network with corporate sponsors and alumni to ensure thatstudents are equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to be successful in the corporate world.NABA Baruch is one of the most prestigious and professional clubs on campus. Everyone knows whatwe are all about and the amazing accomplishments that we achieve each year. Getting recognized onthe National level was an amazing feat.It was my 1st time and believe me it was an amazing experience and I am eternally grateful that I hadthe opportunity of being selected and chosen to go to this year’s convention. It has changed my outlookon things. Thank you to all who made this even remotely possible for me. You are appreciated. Marlon Kitenge

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLETIf anyone was to ask me what my purpose is, my response would be to lend a helping hand to those in need.Not only is this my purpose but it is everything that NABA stands for. I heard so much about NABA beforeattending Baruch, and fittingly enough we had a club on campus; everything just made sense. As I becamean active member my freshmen year, I found a family filled with so much love among people who at the timewere strangers.Within the Baruch chapter, 50 applicants were interested in attending NABA’s National Convention inHollywood. I was one out of two freshmen selected for sponsorship among a group of 13 students. Everyonewould express how this was a big opportunity for those selected. It was as if we were the “CHOSEN ONES”.But as the days began to approach, fear began to consume my mind with thoughts like “would all attention befocused towards the upper classmen?” or “Would recruiter even consider discussing business with afreshman?”On Wednesday, June 22nd, 2016 it was time for a leap of faith; it was too late to turn back now anyways. Ipromised myself that I would enjoy this opportunity and gain confidence while stepping out of my comfortzone. New York was all that I have known for my whole life, and now I had the chance to travel to anotherstate with my NABA family. In the back of my mind, I would ask “God why am I going?” but he had a plan. AsI landed into Florida, I already had one interview lined up for me for Thursday with Wells Fargo who hadpreviously contacted me. Despite having an interview, I continued to attend networking sessions, andintroduced myself to as many professionals and students as I could.As I created friendly conversations with others, I slowly realized that I was amongst Johnson and Johnsonemployees. I would never forget this encounter of how a smile can lead into an opportunity. I met a mannamed Eric Lenard who had been working for JnJ for about 12 years. Slowly but surely a small crowd of 5Baruch students along with myself were in deep conversation with Mr. Lenard for roughly 45 minutesdiscussing his many different experiences. He saw potential in the two freshmen, and the 3 seniors standingbefore him and took further action to set up an interview for all of us. We all had interview lined up for thenext day along with a time we felt best.The next morning, I put my best foot forward and took advice from my peers about interviews. Despite all theadvice, all I could hear was “BE YOURSELF SOPHANIE” and that’s what I did. Both interviews were asuccess and my day was filled. I was also presented with the opportunity to network and meet JP Morganprofessionals which led me to secure an interview with them. I had looked into JP Morgan prior to thisconvention and had never received an opportunity with them so I was shocked when they took interest in me.As I returned home, I was proud of myself for not turning down this opportunity but embracing thatNABA was investing into my future whether I saw it or not. I inherited a line of family members who wantto see me grow and step out of my shell. I met some great individuals who poured into my future with a resultof leaving nationals with two offers for Johnson and Johnson and JP Morgan. This experience has foreverchanged the way I saw myself as a freshman. No matter what, I believe anything is possible. I just thankNABA for seeing the possible in me even when I didn’t see the long-term. Sophanie Occean

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLETThe 2016 NABA National Convention! Where do I start? I am extremely grateful that I was selected toshare a once in a lifetime experience with my fellow NABA members across the country. A huge thankyou to the alumni, administration, sponsors and everyone that had a hand in making this possible.I am a second time attendee of the NABA National Convention. I first attended the National Conventionin Washington, D.C. during my freshman year and as a young student with limited knowledge I had littleidea of what nationals had to offer. At the conclusion of the 2014 convention, in reflection, I felt asthough I had missed out on some huge opportunities.In 2016, I was once again afforded the opportunity to attend the convention at the end of my junior year,a privilege that I had no intention on squandering. I kept in mind all that I had learned from my firstNational Convention and I was determined to make sure that I would not let any opportunity past me by.Prior to the convention I set concrete goals for myself and I told myself that I was not leaving Floridauntil they were accomplished. I could either prepare myself for what this convention would hold or wastetime. The choice was mine! And so, I was eager to attend Nationals and really make my mark at theconvention.My experience at this year’s National Convention was remarkable. I am not sure if that description evendoes justice or explains the full scope of my experience. I had the opportunity to meet with wonderfulprofessionals from some of the most renowned companies across the world. It was great to seeindividuals who were students alongside me years ago, now groomed into professionals. Itencouraged, motivated and assured me that my day would soon come as long as I put in thenecessary work.I also expanded my network at least three fold as a result of this convention and I know that theseconnections will grow to be very meaningful. I must admit though, spending some time away from NewYork to be in the Florida sunshine does not hurt at all. Now the big question, did I accomplish the goal Iset for myself? Yes, I Did! I was given the opportunity to interview with four companies and wasblessed with an offer on the spot during my final interview. With the great feedback I have received fromother companies I know that it is only a matter of time until I hear more good news. During my time inFlorida I was also able to bond with my fellow NABA Baruch members, some of which I did not know. Iam looking forward to Louisiana next summer, but furthermore looking forward to sharing thisexperience with other members that have not yet had this opportunity. Dexter Kingston

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK ACCOUNTANTS BARUCH COLLEGE CHAPTER 2016 TESTIMONIALS BOOKLET In all honesty, NABA, as a national organization, just keeps getting better with time. And as the greatness trickles downwards to the states and school chapters, we all benefit. For me, the 2016 National Convention was special. It was special because now as the Executive Vice President of our chapter and as a second time attendee, I was tasked with doing a lot of the background work such as creating itinerary spreadsheets, reviewing resumes and doing interview prep for the students who were selected to attend the convention. In this capacity, I really felt that I was doing my part in setting up the attendees for nothing short of success. It was quite inspiring to see how we all mastered the little but vital components of preparing for this convention—the support, the encouragement and the prep work. We helped each other research companies, understand current economic events and shared methods of nailing behavioral and case study interviews. We were there for one another and that really holds true to what we stand for and in fact, resonated with me. Upon arrival in Florida, we were all ready for the hustle and grind of securing interviews and gaining invitations to forums and private networking events. I truly believed that there were dreams and opportunities waiting to be seized behind those interview curtains. On the day of the interviews it was so refreshing to see us, us as young students of color, thriving in an organization dedicated but not limited to the advancement of minorities. Seeing it again for a second time made me deeply realize that it is not a ‘me’ thing, it is a ‘we’ thing. Without the “Lifting As ‘We’ Climb” mantra echoing within our chapter and in the atmosphere at the conference and furthermore manifesting itself time and time again throughout our organization, none of this would be possible. I was able to network with many professionals outside of the Big Four— with companies that I have overlooked many times but now I see their value and have grown fond of them. As a result of this, I was able to secure an interview with Wells Fargo for their Diversity Forum that I will be attending in September. The exposure and the level of professionalism that I encountered throughout the convention was superb. This experience was an investment in my life and in the life of every student at that convention. This was so special to me because it showed that we matter. I found great joy being in an atmosphere that screamed black excellence. When NABA Baruch walks away with the Division 1 Student Chapter Award, when three of our students were scholarship recipients and when I constantly spark a glow in people’s eye when I say I am from Baruch College, it shows that I am doing something right—but mostly importantly, we are doing something right and I am extremely grateful that I am a part of it. In order to continue to make dreams come through and to give students opportunities to see a path that may be sometimes cloudy or to see that someone is willing to invest into their lives, we must give them the chance to invest into themselves and be a part of something so great. I am so thankful for Baruch College, our corporate sponsors, our Alumni, Baruch administrators and anyone who have paved the way for us. You are greatly appreciated and you have a great impact within our organization. Thank You.Brianna Farquharson

Special ThanksAccounting Unit

Thank you for your support. -Naba Baruch Developed by: S. DELEON Edited by: B.FARQUHARSON, S.DELEON