alum

William Davis ‘12

Accounting | Hilliard, Ohio

Activities/clubs

Enactus, formerly Students in Free Enterprise (treasurer, 2011-12); Habitat for Humanity (treasurer, 2010-11); Phi Mu Delta (vice president for finance, 2010-11); Accounting Club

Where I’m headed

I will be working as tax associate for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in Harrisburg, Pa. Susquehanna University’s accounting department encourages students to pursue careers in the public accounting field, and like many accountants, I sought an opportunity with the “Big 4” firms (PwC, KPMG, Deloitte and Ernst & Young).

I made my first connection with PwC during the fall semester of my junior year when Dr. McElroy, my cost accounting professor, shared with me the opportunity of a spring internship with PwC. Although I was unable to pursue the internship, I maintained my connection with PwC, and they were my first choice when I began my career search. I was happy to see a position posted by the SU Center for Career Services. I applied immediately and sent an email to the human resources manager that I had met the year before. After a phone interview, I was given an office interview and offered a job on the spot.

How Susquehanna prepared me for this position

Susquehanna University has prepared me well for entering a competitive field. The AASCB-accredited business school has allowed me to take challenging and interesting classes that have given me a well-rounded view of the world of accounting. I also feel well prepared for the certified public accountant (CPA) exam, which I sit for immediately after graduation.

Susquehanna helped me secure internships during the summers, including an audit position with the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and a treasury intern position with the Hershey Company.

What I’ll miss most about Susquehanna

I will miss many things about Susquehanna University, especially my involvement with various campus organizations. One campus club that I hold close to my heart is Enactus, which used to be Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). Enactus is a worldwide organization committed to bettering the world through business endeavors. Through Enactus, I had the opportunity to write a business plan for a local non-profit company, conduct a national business book donation drive benefitting children, and to propose a bio-diesel plant on campus. Enactus has played a key role in allowing me to put the skills learned in the classroom to work in the real world.

What being a Susquehanna alumnus means to me

Being a Susquehanna alumnus will mean living a life of achievement, leadership, and service. Although SU is only 2,300 students strong, it is amazing to find that the university has connections throughout the world. Being a SU alumnus will mean upholding the values learned through campus interactions and classes, as well as a commitment to people. Susquehanna has a very close-knit and welcoming community. I hope to be someone who will give back and continue to bring value to the SU degree.