2024 PSD Business/CIS: Subina Adhikari
Subina describes herself as shy in high school. She says that when it came time to go to college, she wanted an institution that help her transition to a four-year university.
At Cypress College, she got that help. The supportive instructors and counselors were able to guide her. Beyond simply succeeding at coursework she was able to become more involved in school. She immersed herself in her Accounting studies, and went on to become an active member of the Business Club, serving as the secretary, and to participate in the annual Accounting Career Day.
Now, Subina is ready to transfer to a four-year university and go on to become an accountant at a public firm, a long way away from the shy student she once was.
Please tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up? What are your interests? What is your story?
I was born in Anaheim but grew up in Buena Park and have lived here my entire life. My parents immigrated to the United States from Nepal in 2004 shortly before I was born. I am the oldest sibling out of my sister, my brother and I. I am interested in pursuing a career in accounting and obtaining a CPA license. I discovered my interest in accounting after taking accounting principles courses in high school as my electives, in which I completed the accounting career pathway.
Why did you choose Cypress College?
I chose Cypress College because it was the perfect transition between high school and a four-year university. I was a shy student at high school but attending Cypress College made it easy for me to participate in class lectures and also become involved on campus. I am the Secretary of the Business Club and this was the first officer position I ever had since I was not as involved in high school in extracurriculars. Cypress College helped me to realize my full potential and has brought forth many opportunities. I also joined because of the free tuition by the Charger Experience Program.
What have you been involved in at Cypress College? How has your path unfolded?
I have been primarily involved in the Business Club at Cypress College because I am interested in pursuing a career in accounting. The club participates in Accounting Career Day every year and that has provided me with opportunities to network with accounting firms and professionals and learn more about the accounting profession. The accounting professors here are also incredibly helpful. The Business Club has provided many opportunities and I felt it has helped me become more proactive and step out of my comfort zone as I was able to connect with peers with similar interests. Participating in the Business Club as a member pushed me to become more involved in the club as an officer. I am the Secretary for this school year, and this was the first time I have ever held a leadership position of any kind.
Who are the faculty and staff (in your major, an academic or other support program, etc.) who have helped you get where you are today?
My special thanks go to Ann Solis, the Business Club advisor, and Samreen Manjra, both of whom were my accounting professors. They helped me realize my potential in accounting and also are great professors. Professor Manjra helped me get an accounting tutoring position at Cypress College in spring 2023 and Professor Solis gave me an opportunity for leadership in the Business Club, which allowed me to grow professionally and gain invaluable experience. My experience as Secretary of the Business Club has ultimately helped me land an accounting internship this spring and developed my leadership skills.
How has Cypress College supported you throughout your time at the college?
Cypress College has supported me in many ways. The professors at Cypress College are very supportive and want you to succeed. The counselors have also made my transfer process smoother.
What are your immediate plans after completing your studies at Cypress College (at your transfer institution, in the workforce, etc.)?
I plan to transfer and complete my bachelor’s of Business Administration in Accounting.
What are your long-term goals? What do you aspire to?
I plan on completing my bachelor’s and potentially masters degrees in accounting and pursue the CPA license. I plan on working at a public accounting firm upon completing my education but there are other areas of accounting available that I am open to.
What are you most proud of?
I am proud of how far I’ve come along in my educational journey at Cypress College. It is apparent that I have grown and improved myself personally, as well as gained confidence from the time I graduated high school. I became more proactive and it really paid off.
What bit of advice would you give to current and future Cypress College students?
Be involved and look out for opportunities because there are opportunities out there for every student to take advantage of. Join a student club or organization specific to your major to connect with peers and get career/internship opportunities.