Richard Atkins, '14

Major: Economics and Management (emphasis in Accounting)
Internships: Atlas Oil Credit
Activities: While at Albion I was involved in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, Sup de V International Exchange program, Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, Albion College Ski and Snowboard Club, Greek Week Planning Community, and a member of Albion’s Tennis Team for four years.
Current: Completed Master of Accounting degree, Stephen M. Ross School of Business, University of Michigan.  Assurance Staff at Ernst & Young

What did you like most about Albion College?

My favorite part of Albion was the close-knit community. A small student body allowed me to make many connections and friendships with both students and faculty that I would not have if I had attended a larger school. Making these connections helped me grow both academically and personally. I will always remember the people I met at Albion and appreciate how they expanded my outlook and helped me to grow into the person I am today.

How did Albion help you to get where you want to be?

I first became interested in accounting after my managerial accounting course with Professor Gaylord Smith. I only found my interest in accounting after taking some required courses for the finance major. Albion also provided me with many opportunities to grow my business background through programs like the VITA tax preparation program and the Sup De V international exchange program. Albion’s professors proved to be great resources for both career counseling as well as help understanding coursework outside the classroom.

For me, Albion…

…was a place to grow, learn, and make lifelong friends. It provided challenges in the classroom that required us to push ourselves, but also provided help along the way. The diverse courses required as a part of the liberal arts education gave us an opportunity to broaden our outlook, but it may also help you find the major you never thought you wanted.