Major change allows senior to excel in KU School of Business
Rithika Chary discovers passion for accounting, gains confidence from student organizations
Rithika Chary, a senior from Wichita, Kansas, has transformed her college experience through involvement and leadership. Coming from a proud Jayhawk family, the accounting major’s path to KU was set up from an early age. With both of her older siblings also attending KU, Chary grew up hearing stories about the school and the community and knew it was the right place for her.
Chary initially enrolled as a political science major with plans to attend law school afterward. As she took her political science courses, she realized the material did not resonate with her as much as she would have hoped. She switched her major to accounting because she felt it aligned more with her strengths and career goals, especially her goal of earning a CPA, certified public accountant certificate.
“Going through my political science classes, I felt a disconnect between myself and the material I was learning,” Chary said. “I began taking intro-level business classes and felt much more confident with my work in the business school. The classes better aligned with my skills and interests. I also liked that the classes provided a structural approach with clear problem-solving methods, and the content felt more practical and relevant to real world situations.”
Her decision to pursue accounting was not influenced by just her academic strengths but by watching her sister, Keertana, be successful after she also studied accounting at KU and completed her Master of Accounting (MAcc). Chary acquired many valuable insights on the versatility and opportunities that accounting offers.
She believes that accounting is much more multifaceted than many may think. It is a common misconception that accounting is just math and number-crunching. In her mind, it is all about strategic thinking and problem-solving to positively benefit the decision-making process within organizations. Chary sees that accounting is a field with many opportunities for strategic, real-world thinking.
Chary recommends accounting as a major to other students because it provides a unique set of skills that can be applied in many different industries. She feels that having a background in accounting creates a clear path for students after graduation.
The educational foundation of technical accounting, specifically through its required courses, has given Chary the skills and confidence she will use after graduation.
Chary remained ambitious in developing leadership and professional abilities by taking advantage of the numerous ways to get involved at KU. She participated in Mock Trial, the student senate, Phi Alpha Delta, the professional law fraternity, and Delta Sigma Pi, the professional business fraternity. Throughout her involvement in these organizations, Chary has ranged from being a member to holding an executive position, which has provided her with practical experience that will benefit her future.
She also serves in the Undergraduate Business Council (UBC), a student government organization within the School of Business that helps improve student life and incorporates co-curricular experience. Chary believes being actively involved as a student allows for connections and the development of new skills.
“I recommend students look for an organization that aligns with their passions and career goals,” Chary said. “Whether it’s joining a club as a member, taking on a leadership position or attending networking events. Being in UBC helped me develop my communication and problem-solving skills and gave me confidence. I appreciate that being in leadership helped me expand my network and connect with peers, faculty and industry professionals that helped me with mentorship and career opportunities.”
One of the most significant aspects of her time at KU is her involvement with the UBC where, she is currently president. Chary takes on many responsibilities like overseeing meetings, assisting event coordination and working with faculty and staff to promote student involvement, which ensures the UBC clubs feel supported. UBC strives to support clubs and organize community-building traditions and initiatives and hopes to foster a culture where students feel included and heard.
Through these experiences, Chary has developed skills such as leadership, communication, active listening and organization. Her ability to collaborate with different groups of people while planning events and effectively representing students are strategies she uses to excel in her role.
Being part of UBC has played a big role in Chary’s college experience. Her favorite UBC memory is when she worked with Lawrence Habitat for Humanity and formed a nonprofit subcommittee for UBC. Over the course of the year, they raised $20,000 to be put toward building houses in the community, a first for UBC.
After graduating, Chary plans to complete her MAcc and will work as a tax intern for Koch Industries in Wichita, Kansas. She envisions herself working in tax leadership. She aims to manage teams, oversee tax strategies and contribute to high-level decision-making.
Looking back at her college career, Chary now has many nuggets of wisdom for fellow students.
“Stay curious and take advantage of the opportunities and resources that the school offers,” Chary said. “The faculty and staff are extremely supportive, and it is important to put yourself in uncomfortable situations that may help you find something you like.”
By Grace Ludes
