Student Profile: Savannah Chase, Gies College of Business, Illinois

Savannah Chase is currently studying for her Masters of Science at Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois.

Before starting her Masters of Science in Accountancy studies, Chase only had one years’ experience before her new business journey.

Chase held the role of Application Input Representative where she analyzed incoming life and disability insurance applications at Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company in Milwaukee, WI.

She tells TopMBA.com why she chose Gies’ Masters of Science in Accountancy program and why she’s enjoying the experience so far.

What were you doing before starting your Masters?

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science at Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I worked as a CNA, helping adults with special needs gain their independence. During my undergrad, I decided to take a few business classes, and fell in love so I added a business minor.

I took a gap year where I worked at Northwestern Mutual analyzing incoming insurance applications before starting the Masters of Science in Accountancy program. This job taught me analytical skills, attention to detail, and how to communicate with managers and business professionals, all of which solidified I wanted to work in business.

What factors led to you pursuing a graduate degree?

During my undergraduate studies I took a business minor, which featured a variety of introductory courses in various business fields. I found these courses clicked easily for me and ignited a passion I was missing in my science classes. These courses led me to discover my love for business, which is why I’m pursuing my master’s degree.

What were the tools you used to research programs and universities?

The main tool I used to research was online. After speaking with an accounting professor, who had earned her undergraduate degree in chemistry before getting her Masters in Accounting, I knew a Masters in Accounting was what I was looking for. I knew I wanted to stay close to my home in Wisconsin, so I researched several similar programs at the Big 10 Universities in the Midwest by looking at their websites.

What factored in to your final choice of where to study?

Several family members attended the University of Illinois for their accounting degrees, and all of them got excellent jobs after graduation. They assured me Illinois would prepare me well for the CPA exams and workplace environment. In addition, I was consistently told that Illinois has a huge alumni network, which can help students find the best job opportunities. I also researched rankings of accounting programs and compared the rankings of my target schools. Illinois’ MSA program is a top three ranked program in the US, and the program at Illinois is only one year, which is shorter than other programs I was considering. This was important because I wanted to start my career as soon as possible.

What do you most love about the program?

My favorite thing about the MSA program is the emphasis on student experience. I love that the faculty are hands on and ready to help. The program includes several workshops that have helped us develop on personal and professional levels. It also includes social events, which help students explore the campus while making friends and learning about new cultures.

What is your favorite thing about the city?

While I came here because I knew the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign would have the best academics, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I like the city. Although it’s a small town in central Illinois, Champaign is very diverse. My favorite area is downtown Champaign; the historic buildings and pretty lights make downtown Champaign fun to walk around. There’s also a great restaurant scene with a variety of places. Some of my favorite restaurants include Black Dog Smokehouse, Seven Saints, Destihl, and Big Grove Tavern. This year, I’m looking forward to exploring many more of the restaurants and cuisines Champaign-Urbana has to offer!

What do you plan to do once you graduate?

After graduation, I plan to earn my CPA and work as an auditor in Public Accounting. From the alumni network I’ve learned the MSA program is great in preparing students for the CPA exams. I’m planning to take my first two exams during my spring semester this year.

What do you think is the biggest myth about applying to business school?

I think the biggest myth is that they’re only for students who studied business in their undergrad.  Coming from a science major at a different university, I felt so welcomed here at Gies and I’ve learned that interdisciplinary diversity can generate much deeper classroom discussions.

I think one of the other big myths is the only program is the MBA. In addition to the MBA, Graduate Business Programs at Illinois offers great programs, including highly specialized masters degrees.

What is the one piece of advice you’d give incoming students?

Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone! The MSA program is a very new experience for most students. There are so many opportunities available for growth but students need to take the initiative to attend these extra events and make the best out of their experience.