The School of Business at the University of South Carolina Aiken ("USC Aiken") is enhancing opportunities for its exceptional financial information students and professionals through the establishment of a new Beta Alpha Psi ("BAP") chapter.
The chapter was formalized in February 2023, marking a significant milestone in the university's commitment to providing holistic education and fostering connections between students and the business community.
"The introduction of Beta Alpha Psi at USCA aligns perfectly with our mission of nurturing student development and fostering connections with the industry," said Dr. Nancy Albers, dean of the School of Business Administration at USC Aiken. "We believe that this partnership will provide our students with unparalleled opportunities for growth and success."
The BAP chapter at USCA is poised to offer students a multitude of advantages that extend beyond a mere addition to their resumes. Members will have access to various platforms for self-improvement, including enhancing communication skills, building effective teamwork, participating in campus and community service initiatives, and benefiting from a mentorship program. BAP's extensive alumni network further enriches these opportunities, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future careers in accounting and finance.
"The BAP experience goes beyond conventional education. It's about equipping our students with the skills and connections they need to thrive in the professional world," said Lindsay Griswold, accounting instructor and faculty advisor to the USCA BAP chapter. "Our commitment to active participation is a testament to our dedication to fostering well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute to the industry."
To maintain active chapter status, members of the USCA BAP chapter are required to participate in various activities including professional networking events, service initiatives, and regional conferences. This year, the chapter has planned a series of engaging activities, including a resume/interview workshop, a "Meet the Firms" career fair, and firm spotlights featuring local professionals from the community.
The BAP chapter's President Leeda Filson, Vice President Carsen Crumpton, Treasurer Kelsie Furne, and Reporter Peter Flores, recently attended the organization's annual conference held at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas from Aug. 3-5. The conference, a culmination of insightful workshops, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities, provided chapter officers with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to steer the chapter's growth in the coming year.
"We were able to witness several keynote speakers while attending the conference. The session that was most impactful for me was 'Habits of a Highly Successful Career,' presented by Dr. Simon Bailey," stated Crumpton. "Every habit on his list can be attained if you put in the effort and surround yourself with the right people. His takeaway that inspired me the most was to 'find your champion' – someone who has the drive to make stuff happen and who cares about your career just as much, if not more, than you do."
Filson was impressed by the amount of networking the annual conference allowed her. "Not only did I get to meet with employees of big-name firms, but we had the opportunity to ask them questions and have in-depth conversations with professionals." Not only did the students who attended the annual meeting connect with accounting and finance professionals, but they also connected with other students around the nation.
Beta Alpha Psi, founded in 1919, is renowned as the premier honors organization for financial information students and professionals. With more than 300 chapters and more than 300,000 initiated members to date, BAP has built a formidable reputation in the academic and corporate world. All BAP chapters hold accreditation from either AACSB or EQUIS, reflecting the organization's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
For more information, contact Kate Channell, kate.channell@usca.edu, 803-643-6777