Entering the world of business begins for Ouachita students as soon as they walk through the halls of the Frank D. Hickingbotham School of Business building. The business school strives to educate its students through its two majors: Accounting and Business Administration. The Business Administration major also offers six areas of emphasis in Finance, Information Systems, Management, Sports Management, Entrepreneurship and Marketing. Just as the Hickingbotham School of Business is home to many students already, it has much to offer students who are considering studying business.
When considering the school of business, professors advise that students not only consider the course material but their personal interests and strengths as well. Bryan Mckinney, the dean of Hickingbotham School of Business, suggests that students should choose a major that fits their particular skill set and area of interest.
“If [students] wind up landing on business I think we’ve got some tremendous opportunities,” said Mckinney. “I’ve long said I’m a fan of the liberal arts education which helps students learn how to think critically, communicate effectively and appreciate the need for changes and how to make them. I think there’s no better place that a person could get a business education than within the context of a liberal arts education”
Being a part of the business school involves being a part of an intimate group of students and professors who are personal and intentional in helping you succeed.
“We are very focused on helping students figure out what their next step should be in life and our placement rates have been as high as any school anywhere really,” said Mckinney. “We graduate between 50-60 students an academic year and we have the luxury of being very personal and one-on-one with our students when they are going on to their next step.”
“I always encourage our students to be continually thinking about the future and just work as hard as you can, and learn as much as you can and be strategizing for where you think you’ll land when your time at OBU is finished,” Mckinney added.
Business professors are passionate about their subject matter, but even more so they are passionate about the students that fill their classes.
“Business gives you a variety of skills that you can use for different jobs, so I enjoy working with students and seeing them develop new skills and abilities as they learn more about business and how it works,” said Dr. Chris Brune, professor of finance.
Students studying business would attest to the value they believe each of their professors put into each of them. Upperclassmen especially have experienced the continued encouragement and assistance each of their professors has invested in them.
“My business professors rock,” said Meredith Ellis, a junior accounting major from Dallas. “Their doors are always open and they give the best advice. They really guide the business school with wisdom and truly believe in building relationships with their students.”
What many business students find appealing about their area of study is that on top of having many areas to gain experience, their education can lead to a plethora of options for after graduation.
“My parents are both CPA’s and business is where I have always felt led to study because I have a more business-like mind,” said Ellis. “After graduation I feel like there are so many options for my future whether it is being an accountant for a non-profit or going to law school.”
For more information about the Hickingbotham School of Business, visit their page on the OBU website or stop by the business school office.
