Students in accounting, finance and information systems were invited by Beta Alpha Psi, a registered student organization, to the Meet the Employers career fair on Sept. 7 in the SEC Club at Razorback Stadium. 

At the networking and recruitment event, 114 students met with 18 different companies, from public accounting, industry and government nonprofit sectors. Students had the opportunity to talk to these organizations about their industry, companies and careers.

"Going into the event, I already accepted a job offer at an accounting firm (Whitley Penn) in Austin, so I was not pursuing any interviews," said Katie Weller, a graduate student who is pursuing a Master of Professional Accounting. "However, my future employers, including a former BAP president who now works there, came out to support the event which was really special. I even got the chance to help recruit at their table and share my amazing experience interning at the firm."

"Students should consider attending Meet the Employers because at a school of this magnitude, it can sometimes be difficult to make yourself stand out in the crowd," Weller said. "Attending a smaller career fair with a strong reputation gives them the opportunity for more face-to-face time with their dream company. It also exposes them to new firms they may not have the chance to meet at the general business career fair. Since the event happens so early in the year, it also gives students a head start on the recruiting process."

Beta Alpha Psi is open to business students with a declared major in accounting, finance or information systems and who hold a 3.0 GPA or higher. Students must either be enrolled in or have taken Accounting 2023 to be eligible to join the club. The RSO hosts workshops and weekly speakers who represent the accounting and finance industry.

"It gives them the networking opportunities to develop their career paths," said Thomas Hayes, Beta Alpha Psi faculty advisor and teaching associate professor in the William Dillard Department of Accounting at the Sam M. Walton College of Business. "They get access to those companies, which is critical for success in a fast-paced job market."

For more information about Beta Alpha Psi, visit their webpage or contact Thomas Hayes at THayes@walton.uark.edu.