My College Major and Why it Makes Sense by Jennifer

My College Major and Why it Makes Sense by Jennifer - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

When I think about my future and what I want to do with my life, it’s clear to me that pursuing a degree in business administration with a focus on accounting is the right path for me. I'm currently working toward my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting at Salem International University, and every day, I feel more confident that this is the direction I’m meant to go.
Ever since I was younger, I've had a knack for numbers. I was the kid who loved helping out with my family’s budget, keeping track of expenses, and even organizing the finances for small projects. I realized early on that I’m really comfortable with numbers and enjoy making sense of things through spreadsheets, calculations, and problem-solving. For me, accounting isn’t just about balancing books…it’s about finding the story behind the numbers, helping businesses make sense of their finances, and giving people the insight they need to make smart decisions. That’s what drew me to accounting in the first place: the idea that numbers can tell you so much more than just a balance sheet…they can guide a company’s future and shape its success.
What I love about accounting is how it’s always in demand. Every business, whether it's a small startup or a massive corporation, needs accountants to keep their finances in check. This is something that excites me because it means I can work in almost any industry I choose—whether that’s in healthcare, tech, or even a non-profit organization. And the more I’ve learned about business administration as a whole at Salem International University, the more I’ve realized that accounting is really the foundation of everything. Financial decisions influence every aspect of a business, and accounting professionals play a key role in making sure everything runs smoothly. I want to be part of that process, helping businesses and individuals manage their money responsibly and plan for the future.
Accounting also feels like a field where I can make a real difference. The more I learn about it, the more I realize how crucial accountants are when it comes to keeping things ethical and transparent in the business world. In today’s world, where financial regulations are always changing, accountants help ensure that companies stay compliant and make decisions based on accurate information. I find the responsibility of that role really motivating. Knowing that I can help businesses avoid mistakes and stay on track with their finances is something I take seriously, and it’s a huge reason why I’ve stuck with this major. I want to be someone who helps businesses grow and thrive, not just someone who crunches numbers behind the scenes.
One of the main reasons I chose accounting over other areas of business is because of the career flexibility it offers. No matter where I end up…whether in a corporate environment or working with smaller businesses…there will always be opportunities. I also appreciate how accounting can be applied to many areas of business, whether that’s tax accounting, auditing, or financial advising. It’s a field where there’s room to grow, specialize, and evolve over time. Plus, I know that with the experience and degree I’m gaining at Salem, I’ll be able to hit the ground running after graduation. That sense of job security and potential for advancement really speaks to me.
The best part about studying accounting at Salem International University is that I’m learning practical skills that will set me up for success. I’m not just studying theories or abstract concepts; I’m learning things I can apply directly to real-world situations. From learning about financial statements to tax laws and everything in between, I feel like I’m getting a solid foundation that will make me an asset to any company. I’m also building skills that go beyond accounting… things like leadership, communication, and problem-solving that will help me in any role I take on in the future.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about where this degree will take me. I want to be someone who helps businesses make informed financial decisions and use their resources wisely. There’s something really satisfying about being able to look at a company’s finances and find ways to make things more efficient, whether that’s through budgeting, forecasting, or managing cash flow. I can already see myself working in a company or organization that values the skills I’m learning. In the future, I’d love to specialize in financial analysis or maybe even help small businesses grow by providing them with the financial guidance they need.
At the end of the day, accounting isn’t just a career path for me; it’s a way to build a future where I can make a difference. Whether I’m working with a small business owner to help them manage their resources or advising a large company on their financial strategy, I want to be someone who’s trusted to guide others toward success. I know that the skills I’m gaining at Salem International University will provide me with the tools I need to do that, and I’m excited to continue this journey.