SXU Student Completes Mary T. Washington Wylie Internship Preparation Program
Saint Xavier University (SXU) accounting and finance student Guadalupe Viramontes has become a Mary T. Washington Wylie Internship Preparation Program scholar. The highly competitive program prepares promising Illinois-based racial and ethnic minority college students interested in accounting careers with the skills needed to obtain their first accounting positions and pursue CPA credentials. Viramontes was one of 41 scholars selected in the largest cohort to date.
As part of the program, Viramontes participated in a three-day virtual session that provided her the opportunity to meet various recruiters and inspiring professionals in the accounting community.
"As a minority and first-generation student, I tend to feel alone and like I have to figure everything out on my own. This program truly showed me how much support there is for our community and inspired me to continue pursuing my accounting career," said Viramontes.
Viramontes chose accounting because she's always been interested in math and numbers. She's pleased with how her classes at SXU have set her up for success.
"I have gained so much knowledge and insight that will help me advance in my career. Tips related to my major and networking have played a huge role in getting me to where I am today. Everything I've learned so far at SXU and what I will continue to learn will stick with me throughout my career," said Viramontes.
Viramontes is especially grateful for mentors like finance professor Alexander King, Ph.D., who has been an inspirational and motivational professor for her. In fact, it was in King's class that Viramontes learned about the scholarship. King is very proud of Viramontes' success.
"I am so excited Guadalupe got to be a part of this rewarding program. Her diligent and thoughtful approach to her studies combined with the professional support of the program are going to provide her opportunities to start a rewarding career," said King.
Viramontes is also thankful for the memories she's made during her time at SXU, especially being able to spend time with the close friends she's made in various spots on campus, most notably the SXU Diner.
In the future, Viramontes plans to earn her CPA license and give back to her community. She'd like to focus on helping first-generation students maneuver through college.