A student’s journey through marketing and community

When marketing major Sarah Firchau arrived at Central Michigan University from Clinton Township, Mich., she wasn’t just choosing a place to study—she was choosing one that felt familiar, supportive, and full of opportunity.

“I chose Central Michigan University because of the beautiful campus and the wonderful opportunities it could give me,” she said. “Looking back three years later, I could not imagine myself at another university.”

She knew she wanted a major that blended creativity with structure, and marketing quickly became that perfect fit. “I wanted to major in something where I could be creative but also be analytical,” she said. “Marketing allows me to do this perfectly.”

That balance—thoughtful exploration paired with strong support—has shaped every part of her CBA experience.

Discovering the right academic path

Sarah’s coursework introduced her to new ideas, new strengths, and new perspectives. One class in particular left a lasting impact.

“My favorite class has been Women in Management with Professor Amy McGinnis,” she said. “This class was so monumental to me. I got to learn about the history of women in management and how I can succeed. Learning about what it meant to be a woman in the business world years ago, compared to today, feels very empowering and eye-opening. It shows how far women have come.”

At the same time, the support she found within the CBA helped her feel grounded and confident. “CMU has lots of resources for me to go to for help,” she said. “One of them is the Business Student Services office. I currently work there, and it has been the best experience. I have gotten all sorts of guidance and advice about my academics from all the advisors and my boss.”

Her experience in the Integrated Business Core brought the business world to life in a hands-on way. “I took the CMU CBA Integrated Business Core last semester, and it was truly an experience,” she said. “I got the chance to work with a team of different business majors, create a meal kit brand, and present it like it was an actual business presentation. After completing the core, I truly feel I’ve grown. Not only as a public speaker, but also in my business knowledge.”

It’s these moments—rigorous, collaborative, and supportive—that show students how the CBA prepares them for their careers.

Strengthening skills and community, beyond the classroom

For Sarah, involvement became the doorway to community and confidence.

“My roommates, my close friends in my classes, and my sorority have been my support system and best friends,” she said. “When coming to college, I was very shy, so I branched out of my shell to make friends.”

Across several student organizations and leadership roles, she found places where she could grow personally and professionally:

• Alpha Gamma Delta: “Being in the sorority alone has helped me grow professionally and personally.”
• Society of Women in Business: “I joined SWB my freshman year because I wanted to surround myself with other women who wanted to be women in the business field.”
• American Marketing Association: “When I got asked to be the Vice President of AMA, I was unsure. Looking back, it was one of the best choices I made. The amount of leadership and marketing skills that I have learned in just a short time from this role is amazing.”

Much like many CBA students, Sarah found that involvement didn’t just build her résumé—it built her sense of belonging.

Guiding the next generation of business students

Sarah understands what it feels like to start college unsure of what comes next—and she encourages future students to trust the process.

“If you have an area that interests you, but you don’t know what part to study, like business, major in general business and take different major classes to see what you like,” she said. “You will find the right major! My best advice would be to follow your heart.

She also emphasizes that not knowing everything at 18 is not only normal—it’s expected. “I wish I knew that it is okay to not be fully prepared or to not know what you are doing right away,” she said. “I spent a lot of time my freshman year stressing out because I felt like everyone was moving faster than me. Just remember, everyone moves at their own pace, and that is fine!”

Her advice reflects the perspective of someone who has grown into her own voice—with the help of a strong community behind her.

Setting future goals and remembering what matters most

Looking ahead, Sarah feels prepared for the marketing and communications career she wants to pursue. “After I graduate, I hope to work in the marketing and communications field, especially in a position that involves advertising, branding, PR, and digital marketing,” she said. “CMU has helped shape my goals by offering many courses that I am interested in that I can take.”

When she reflects on her time in the College of Business, the memories that stand out are the people—the professors, the advisors, the classmates, and the friends who became her support system.

“I will remember how welcoming every faculty and staff member has been here,” she said. And above all, she’ll carry the friendships she built during her journey. “The friendships I have made here are like no other, and I would not trade them for the world.”

For Sarah, success at CMU isn’t just about discovering a major. It’s about discovering confidence—and the community that helped her find it.