Building confidence, friendships, and a future in accounting and finance

For accounting and finance double major Yvette Mugabekazi from Rwanda, Central Michigan University wasn’t the obvious choice; it was the unexpected one.

“Honestly, I feel like God chose it for me,” she said. “I didn’t know anything about Central Michigan University. I applied because a high school friend was applying too. She didn’t end up coming, but I did. The first time I set foot on campus was move-in day.”

That leap of faith set her on a path that would connect her with mentors, friendships, and the double major that shaped her future.

Discovering her major

Numbers always made more sense to Yvette than essays.

“I’ve always loved numbers more than writing or reading,” she said. “So, accounting felt like the right fit.”

One professor’s advice shifted her path even further: pursue a double major in accounting and finance. “That way I wouldn’t have to get a master’s to qualify for the CPA,” she explained. “It sounded like a good idea to get those 150 credits in undergrad and be ready for what’s next.”

A class that clicked

Her favorite class? ACC 511 Federal Income Tax.

“Something about tax just speaks to me,” she said. “I had an internship in tax, and it’s interesting because of the laws, the regulations, and how everything connects. Plus, Professor Joanna Shaw a good job explaining things. She made the class amazing.”

Finding support and community

Even at a large university, Yvette said support has never been far away.

“I love how professors are eager to help,” she said. “It feels like they really value you and want you to succeed.”

That support extended beyond the classroom. Through CMU recruiters, she landed a tax internship with Plante Moran. “That experience was huge for me, and I know CMU made it possible,” she said.

She also found her place in student organizations. As secretary of Beta Alpha Psi, she handled emails, attendance, and communication for the accounting and finance honor society. “It’s been a big part of my growth,” she said.

Lessons learned with perfect timing

Looking back, Yvette admitted she had to adjust quickly to the shift from high school to college.

“In high school, teachers remind you to do your homework. In college, you’re on your own,” she said. “Time management was the biggest lesson.”

When the pressure builds, she resets by going to church, joining Bible study, or simply spending time with friends. “It’s about balance,” she said. “Sometimes that means rest, sometimes it’s community.”

What keeps her motivated?

Her motivation comes from knowing why she’s here and who’s watching.

“I remind myself I’m here for a better future,” she said. “My parents and my younger siblings motivate me, too. I want them to see me as a good example.”

After graduation, she already has a job lined up at Plante Moran as a Tax Associate and plans to work toward her CPA license. “That’s my next big goal,” she said.

Looking back at what mattered

When she reflects on her time at CMU, Yvette won’t just remember classes or exams.

“For sure, I’ll remember the friendships and the relationships with my professors,” she said. “They helped me grow in my professional life, my personal life, and even my faith. CMU made me more independent. That’s something I’ll always be grateful for.”

For Yvette Mugabekazi, Central Michigan University wasn’t the obvious choice; it was the unexpected one.

“Honestly, I feel like God chose it for me,” she said. “I didn’t know anything about Central Michigan University. I applied because a high school friend was applying too. She didn’t end up coming, but I did. The first time I set foot on campus was move-in day.”

That leap of faith set her on a path that would connect her with mentors, friendships, and the double major that shaped her future.