Blogs

Permalink

Benefits of the IMA Student Leadership Conference

By Xiaoxiao Zhu posted 10-07-2014 12:34 PM

  

IMA’s 15th Annual Student Leadership Conference will take place in Indianapolis, IN from November 6-8.  As a past attendee of the Annual Student Leadership Conference, I would like to share my experience and talk about the benefits of attending the conference.

Education

The student leadership conference contained full of wonderful presentations and workshops. We heard from leading practitioners about some popular accounting topics such as IFRS, ethics, leadership, professional etiquette, and the value of the CMA certification. The workshops also prepared many useful topics for college students such as resume tips, interview skills, and the importance of having a mentor. I was fascinated by a broad range of opportunities within the management accounting profession and came away with valuable career insights.

Networking

The student leadership conference provided a lot of opportunities for networking. I was able to meet and mingle with a number of people at different events. I took an industrial tour at Procter & Gamble Corporate Archives and got insight regarding the internal working environment of a manufacturing company. I also participated in a social event at the Newport Aquarium where we were randomly assigned a team and finished a group project with other students from different universities. I had a great time engaging with students and professors from different universities as well as professionals, academics, and leaders during the conference.

Internship

The student leadership conference was a great place for students seeking internship opportunities. Before the conference, I was selected to have an on-site interview with my current employer. After two rounds of interviews, I was offered a summer internship position. There is a saying that “When opportunity knocks, never hesitate to open the door.” I am always thankful for the interview opportunity I had at the student conference three years ago.


Reflecting back, I am glad I made a right choice to participate in the student leadership conference. This exclusive IMA event enabled me to stay informed on the latest accounting industry issues, explore management accounting career options first-hand, and appreciate the connections I made at the conference.

0 comments
37 views