The new school year is upon us. In addition to new students, new faculty, and new staff, Sterling College is starting this year with a new concentration: Accounting. With the addition of business professor, Irene Barkman, Sterling College is now able to offer Accounting as new area of study for business majors. 

Going to college can be a whole new world for students, offering them freedom as well as big decisions to make. One of the biggest decisions that college students will be faced with is deciding their respective field of study. With so many majors to choose from, this can often be a difficult process. After challenges in the economy of the last several years, the market is looking more promising this year, especially for those interested in the business field as it appears to be offering more jobs than ever before—encouraging news for students. Sterling College is helping accommodate students interested in jumping into the business world with the recent addition of an accounting emphasis.

According to the “Job Outlook 2011 Spring Update” published in April by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers plan to hire 19.3% more graduates in 2010-2011 than they did in 2009-2010, with business and accounting being two of the biggest industries experiencing increases in hiring.

All of this is a particularly good indicator for students to consider pursuing concentrations in business. Sterling’s addition of the accounting emphasis is coupled with the hiring of Irene Barkman who has extensive practical experience in the accounting field and will be serving as assistant professor of business. “This allows us the opportunity for job prospects for students upon graduation in not only business, but also accounting. With business already being one of our top programs, we can only expect an even greater interest in this program as a result of this addition,” said Dr. Greg Kerr, vice president for academic affairs.

While prospects in the job market for business majors is encouraging, the competition is tough for applicants of any field, and it is important for students to start preparing themselves for finding a career upon graduating. “Some organizations, especially large companies, receive hundreds of applications for one position,” explained Lisa Parson, director of career services. “Students should take advantage of career development and internship opportunities in college to make themselves more marketable following graduation.”

It is crucial that students be proactive in starting the preparation process early, to increase the chances of finding employment after graduation. “Even freshmen, sophomores, and juniors can prepare themselves for the workforce,” said Tina Wohler, vice president of student life. “I believe internships are valuable experiences for students. Making connections and learning more about the specifics of a career can help solidify a student’s decision on what to major in and where they want to go with a career. It also can lead to full-time employment upon graduation as well.”