Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business students come to learn, explore, and build community. As they move forward in their careers, they take everything they've learned and use it to power innovation in industries and businesses across the globe. Before graduating, we sat down with a few students to find out what they've learned and what advice they want to give to other students.
Meet Matt Weber, who is graduating with a concentration in Accounting.
Where are you from?
Charlotte, North Carolina
Where did you attend high school?
Charlotte Catholic High School
What is the biggest lesson you gained from studying business?
Strong communication skills are invaluable throughout your career. While you're going to leave Scheller with a wide variety of technical skills, there's always going to be a situation where you need to get assistance from others, lead a team, or express your ideas. Being a good listener and communicator will allow you to succeed. When working on group projects, I've been exposed to people with different backgrounds and strengths, and communicating effectively is a must.
What advice would you give to a student looking to major in a business-related field?
If you find your passion is business, you can be successful. Scheller's curriculum allows you to experience an introduction to each concentration, and this exposure enables you to discover what you truly want to pursue. Personally, accounting immediately clicked with me and finding a specialty that I love has greatly benefitted me throughout my time at Scheller and will continue throughout my career.
As a business student in the heart of Tech Square, how do you think Scheller College embodies the intersection of business and technology?
Throughout my time at Scheller, I've seen the embodiment of the intersection of business and technology grow. Not only has the number of companies located within walking distance of Scheller grown but the focus on providing students with the technical skills necessary in today's world is emphasized. The core classes at Georgia Tech as a whole and at Scheller emphasize utilizing technology, which helps prepare students for the modern world.
What was your favorite business course?
My favorite business course was "Management in the Healthcare Sector," taught by Professor Bill Todd. Taught through a combination of case studies and guest speakers, Professor Todd focused on numerous aspects of the healthcare industry, from public health to hospitals and insurance. The discussions in the class challenged my perspective, and I gained insight from top individuals within their fields, allowing the concepts within the classroom to be immediately applied to the real world.
Who is your favorite professor?
My favorite professor at Scheller was Professor Debby Turner. I took introductory accounting courses under Professor Turner, and she was the reason I decided to choose accounting as my concentration. Her passion for accounting and the success of her students always inspired me, and she was an amazing resource as I navigated the requirements of pursuing a CPA license.
What has surprised you most about majoring in business at Scheller College?
The community within the Scheller College of Business came as the biggest surprise. As an internal transfer into the business program, I wasn't exposed to the passion everyone has for Scheller until my second semester at Georgia Tech. Between seeing friendly faces between classes, getting to know professors, and having the resources of the undergraduate program office, everyone at Scheller strives to make people feel welcomed and grow in their abilities.
What were some of your extracurricular activities, community work and leadership roles during college?
During my time at Georgia Tech, I was fortunate to serve in multiple leadership positions, including the vice president of finance for the Delta Upsilon fraternity. In addition, I was a member of the Scheller Business Ambassadors (SBA) and the Honorary Accounting Organization.
Which academic, extracurricular, or personal achievement are you most proud of?
While small, I'm proud of my time leading the Peer-Led Undergraduate Study (PLUS) sessions for Accounting 2101. In each session, I worked with a small group of students to help them better understand topics in the course. I loved sharing my knowledge and passion for accounting with younger students, and there was always a sense of fulfillment when someone left the session to solve a problem or grasp a concept they were unable to do before.
Where have you interned during your college career?
In the summer of 2019, I interned at Altisource Portfolio Solutions as a compensation intern within their human resources department. In the spring and summer of 2021, I interned as a tax and audit intern at CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA). I returned to CLA in the summer of 2022 with a focus on business taxation in the manufacturing and distribution industry.
Where will you be working after graduation?
I'm excited to return full-time to CLA as an associate, working in tax and audit after graduation.
Looking back over your experience, what is the one thing you'd do differently in business school and why?
I wish that I had attended more office hours with my professors. I feel this advice is often given, but I've found the conversations I've had with professors to be especially valuable at Scheller. Everyone here brings incredible academic and professional experiences, and they can serve as great resources to navigate your time as an undergrad and prepare you for your career.
Which classmate do you most admire?
Emma Wearing, because she welcomed new challenges in classes to explore new opportunities and is always enthusiastic when working with others.
Who would you most want to thank for your success?
I want to thank my parents for being influential in my success. They helped instill in me a love for learning, and they encouraged me to explore new opportunities and follow my passions. Also, they were the ones who first introduced me to the opportunities in business, and I wouldn't have chosen this path without them.
What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?
One item on my professional bucket list would be to serve as a mentor. I respect those who have helped me navigate college and my career, and I want to give back to others. Once I've gained sufficient knowledge and become an expert in my field, I want to help others find their passion and grow in their abilities. Additionally, I'd love to get an advanced degree eventually. I've always loved learning and want to gain further knowledge to complement the skills I've gained in the corporate world.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
My voice has been used on the air on six local radio stations in my hometown as part of a promotional effort for a local charity 5k run.