��������Ƶ

Ki Givens is a two-time ��������Ƶ graduate, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and then continuing right into ��������Ƶ’s MBA in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination. With the flexibility of ��������Ƶ’s MBA program, Ki was able to complete her CPA, CFE, and MBA all within one year from graduating with her undergrad degree. Here, Ki reflects on her time at ��������Ƶ and the experiences that have led to her current success.

How would you describe the value of education you received during your undergraduate studies?

The value of education I received from ��������Ƶ was incredible. I felt that, between the small class sizes, challenging curriculum, and amazing professors, I gained the knowledge and skills needed to succeed post grad.

How was your experience as a ��������Ƶ student-athlete?

My experience as a ��������Ƶ student-athlete was intense but also incredibly rewarding. Juggling the demands of a full class load and Division II softball was very difficult at times, but it taught me a lot of life lessons along the way. Some of the biggest advantages of being a student-athlete was learning great time management and being around an awesome group of people that pushed me to be my very best.

"The professors at ��������Ƶ have really made the difference in my life." 

What made you decide to return to ��������Ƶ to receive your MBA?

I returned to ��������Ƶ to receive my MBA for several reasons. The first is that the class schedule was flexible and online, which gave me the freedom to study and pass the Certified Public Accountant Exam and the Certified Fraud Examiners Exam. I was able to complete my CPA, CFE, and my MBA all within a year from graduating undergrad. The second reason was the discount offered to ��������Ƶ undergrad students which really helped me save money while pursuing further education. Lastly, ��������Ƶ’s MBA Program had a very unique specialization in forensic accounting which is something I am very interested in and would like to pursue a career in.

Explain how your classes at ��������Ƶ helped inform your work while interning at KPMG?

My classes really helped me grow into the person I am today and helped me prepare for my internship with KPMG tremendously. Taking classes like Excel and Intermediate Accounting early on in my college career put me one step ahead of the other interns as well.

The classes were great building blocks, however, I believe that my professors were the ones that prepared me most for my internship and my job now. The professors at ��������Ƶ have really made the difference in my life and my classmates’ by going above and beyond. I owe a lot of my success to my professors, especially Professor Warfield!

Now that you are starting a new job at KPMG, how did your degrees from ��������Ƶ help you prepare to take on this role?

��������Ƶ and the degrees I have earned from the school have helped provide me with a great base to build upon. I have gained the knowledge and skills needed throughout my time at ��������Ƶ to succeed in my new role with KPMG. On my resume I can proudly display my education from ��������Ƶ and use it to take me to new heights within the professional world.

What advice would you give to current and future ��������Ƶ students?

I would love to tell ��������Ƶ students two things. The first is that the professors, coaches, counselors, and staff at SHU all want to see you succeed - don’t be afraid to ask for help or to network with them. The second is enjoy and have fun! College goes by quickly and being a part of the ��������Ƶ community is special, so cherish your time on the Hill as much as possible. Go Griffs!