It was intimidating coming to the University of Houston since I am not from this culture and it was not hard to find buddies from my own country at community college. I was worried how I would blend in, but soon I realized that the key to success here is to be able to stand out.
The University of Houston, especially the Bauer College of Business, has provided me so many opportunities to learn and to network. I joined Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) – a national organization for accounting, finance and MIS students – to get involved in campus activities and build my professional network. Being in BAP, I was able to attend so many professional meetings (almost twice a week) with public accounting firms and industrial corporate contacts. Additionally, I had the chance to perform community service, which looks good on my résumé and allowed me to make life-time friendships.
I ran for an officer position and was elected to be VP of Public Relations. This position helped me grow and find internships very easily. I got three internship offers from three Big Four public accounting firms. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in December 2013. After the internship, I signed a full-time offer with PwC and will start with them in September.
Now I am enrolled in the Master of Science in Accountancy program. My first day of the program was in August 2014. On that date, I did not feel intimidated. Instead, I was really excited and proud to be part of Bauer College. There are numerous opportunities here at the University of Houston and Bauer College, and I am glad that I have made good use of those opportunities.
Phuong (Jill) Doan Goehring
Master of Science in Accountancy Candidate
Bauer College of Business – University of Houston