An opportunity to excel

“I finally realized that I like doing this a whole lot more than writing,” said Flak, who earned a bachelor’s degree in English.

The nontraditional student returned to academia at University of Michigan-Dearborn to study accounting and further his business career.

In order to ease his transition to the College of Business (COB), Flak joined Beta Alpha Psi, an international honors organization for accounting, finance and information systems majors.

“Beta gives us more of an opportunity to excel as professionals and as people,” said Flak, vice president of Beta Alpha Psi, who plans to graduate in December 2014.

Commitment to professional development, academics and service helped earn UM-Dearborn’s Beta Alpha Psi chapter a “Superior” status for a fourth consecutive year.

“These students really get a sense of what it takes to be a professional through networking and service activities,” said UM-Dearborn accounting lecturer Susan Baker, who serves as the chapter’s faculty adviser. “A lot of times, they’re volunteering alongside professionals from accounting firms and tax assistance programs. It really builds their skills and confidence.”

To earn “Superior” status, Beta Alpha Psi members had to participate in eight activities that ranged from networking to community service. Each member also had to log at least 32 professional and service hours – UM-Dearborn students recorded more than 60 hours.

“That’s how we better ourselves,” said Shirish Srinivasan, president of UM-Dearborn’s chapter. “At the end of the day, the ‘Superior’ status isn’t what drives us. It’s about helping students grow professionally and giving back to the community.”

Over the past year, Beta Alpha Psi has participated in a number of volunteer initiatives at Gleaners Food Bank, Forgotten Harvest and Meals on Wheels. But one of their most rewarding service activities stems their involvement with Dearborn Public Schools.

Beta Alpha Psi members visited high schools across Dearborn to educate students about the opportunities available in accounting, finance and information systems.

Community service and networking remain staples of Beta Alpha Psi. Every other Friday, the chapter welcomes guest speakers from southeast Michigan accounting firms, banks and other financial institutions. Guests offer insight into the field and also network with the students afterward.

The chapter also hosts annual “Meet the Firms” events, where students are invited to network with potential employers.

“The effort our students put forth in the classroom is complemented by the service activities they participate in outside the classroom,” said COB Dean Raju Balakrishnan. “Members of Beta Alpha Psi are able to utilize their education to make a difference in southeast Michigan. They also understand the importance of networking, so they look out for their fellow classmates by inviting area business leaders to our campus throughout the year.”