Meet a student in the School of Business

Q&A with a student in the School of Business

Sophomore Richard Karuschkat, a student pursuing two degrees - accounting and business administration with finance – squeezed in some time in his busy schedule to talk about his major, future plans and how the School of Business is like a family.

Why did you decide to major in both accounting and business administration?

It gives me a broader idea of the field and allows me to have more opportunities. In my second degree, business administration, I am taking the finance option. It has been my goal to be a CFO ever since I was a kid! I’m also going to become a certified public accountant (CPA), but I’m unsure if I want to work in a CPA firm for the rest of my life. I love both fields, accounting and finance. I would love to go into either one in my future.

What is unique about the business administration program?

The way that the program is set up is that you receive a business administration degree with finance, or whatever you decide to focus in. This way, you become more marketable and are not limited in your job search. Those who go to another school may receive only a degree in finance and do not receive recognition in business administration.  If there is an opportunity either in another field or in a higher management position they may not be as likely to receive consideration because they do not have the business administration background.

Are you planning on doing an internship?

I’m starting an internship in January at a CPA firm located in Spring House.

Can you tell us a little about the new requirements for being a CPA?

As of January 2012, you will need to complete 150 credit hours to get certified. The College just developed a new CPA track that allows students to still graduate in four years even with the increased credit requirements. You need a certain GPA to qualify. Once you do, you take around 18 credits each semester and 6 credits during the summer of sophomore and junior year.

Are you part of the new CPA track?

Yes. Because the new program set in place is so intense it does meet all the requirements for both majors. In order to receive two degrees I will just have to take 5 more credits to reach the 155 credit requirement for two degrees.

What kind of clubs and activities are you involved in?

I played soccer for the College last year, and I’m currently playing for a winter league soccer team outside of school. I also coach for a Horsham soccer league. This semester, I helped start up the business club and I serve as the vice president, I work in the Academic Resource Center (ARC) as an accounting/business tutor, and I’m on the student advisory board to the dean of the School of Business. I’m also a Griffin Ambassador – we give campus tours to prospective students.

How did you fit everything into your schedule?

I don’t know! I set my schedule so that I can do everything. I stay up late most nights.

What is your favorite part of giving tours to prospective students?

I like meeting the students and giving them insight into the College. I had a business student give me my tour when I was looking at Gwynedd-Mercy College, and it’s a big reason why I’m here now!

Do you have any insights for students looking to enroll in the School of Business?

The School of Business is like a small family. We’re our own little community within the college community. You get to know all the professors really well and they’re there every step of the way. They want to see us succeed. Also, the material is not cumulative. It all builds upon itself, so you’re not too stressed or overloaded as long as you’re following along and doing the work!