Emily Hanscom '24 had her academic journey planned prior to ever attending college. Initially, she thought she would pursue education as a music teacher, but during the COVID pandemic, Hanscom discovered her love of accounting and rechartered her course to follow suit.

Hanscom first attended Dutchess Community College, studying Business Administration. She then transferred to Marist as an Accounting major with a minor in Global Studies. "I loved the overall program structure, which allowed me to personalize my degree with classes I was eager to take.  The overall atmosphere of Marist was welcoming, and I was drawn to the accounting professors, who were always there to lend a helping hand," Hanscom said. At the same time she transferred, Dr. Tracey Niemotko had joined the Marist faculty as, coincidentally, an Associate Professor of Accounting. The two immediately bonded, and Dr. Niemotko took Hanscom under her wing.

Hansom credits Dr. Niemotko with opening several doors for her at Marist, including helping Hanscom start a student chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). With Dr. Niemotko's guidance and support, Hanscom was approached to start a student chapter for The New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA) – a first for New York State – alongside NYSSCPA CEO Calvin Harris. Hanscom states of this momentous establishment, "I am proud to have been a part of this historic formation in New York State, and I am excited to see how beneficial it will be for Marist's accounting students!"

As if starting not one but two student organizations did not keep her busy enough, Hanscom also participated in the Mid-Hudson Regional Business Plan Competition (MHRBPC) with Marist's School of Computer Science and Mathematics. Through this experience, Hanscom further pushed herself academically and professionally by creating business plans, collaborating effectively with groups, and presenting advanced research topics - all topics she says she now uses in her day-to-day life. 

As she reflects on her Marist experience, Hanscom advises students to stay true to their career aspirations, not be deterred by a major because it's thought to be too difficult, take advantage of various internship opportunities, and last but most importantly, "ask any and all questions you may have. You never know which questions will open the door to a new path."