Six Missouri State University students brought home first and third place awards recently at the Beta Alpha Psi national competition in Anaheim, California.

Community outreach

Senior Erin Eckels and graduate students Zach Herbert and Amanda Wieberg placed first in the community outreach category of the best practices competition.

The trio created a presentation to teach the next generation about financial information professions. They presented to high school students around Springfield and put that experience into the presentation.

“Winning was extremely gratifying to our team, our chapter and our school,” Eckels said. “We put a lot of effort into our project, and we were truly passionate about the topic.”

Leadership development

Seniors Matt Barris and Katlyn Braun and graduate student Laura Zhang placed third in the leadership development category, also a part of the best practices competition.

The trio carried out a mentoring program for undecided business majors at MSU. They focused on mentoring freshmen and transfer students, and shared their experiences in the presentation at the competition.

More than a competition

The Beta Alpha Psi national competition takes place during the organization’s annual meeting. College and university students in financial information majors from all over the country meet to learn, compete and network.

MSU’s chapter takes pride in the success of its competitors, inside and outside of the contest.

“While it does bring recognition to Missouri State University and the School of Accountancy, the professional development that occurs in our students is the main benefit,” said Dr. Dick Williams, director of the School of Accountancy.