Lauren Collins

Current Employer: Grant Thornton

Position: Audit Associate

Hometown: Waxhaw, N.C.

3 best things about UNC Charlotte: Our beautiful campus, Getting to be part of the growth stage for an up-and-coming university, There are opportunities for everyone, no matter their interests

Favorite Charlotte restaurant: My favorite restaurant is Flying Biscuit Café in Ballantyne. They take a fun twist on classic southern food. Also, it is the best place to get breakfast for dinner!

Favorite course: My favorite class was Foundations of Public Health. It was really good to get outside of my business school bubble and learn about a field that makes impactful change in people’s lives. I have recently developed a personal interest in public health and how I can help make the world a healthier and happier place.

Lauren Collins
2017
What degree did you pursue and why?

I pursued a master's degree in accountancy. When I first chose accounting, it was because I did well in the Principles of Accounting class as an undergraduate. Now that I have learned more about the profession, I realize that a career in accounting will continue to challenge me and provide me with opportunities to learn about a variety of different industries.

Why did you choose the Belk College of Business/UNC Charlotte?

I wish I could say that my choice to attend UNC Charlotte was a decision I made logically after careful research. But the truth is that the second I walked onto campus as a high school junior, I made up my mind. It just “clicked”. Luckily for me, my first instinct was the right one. Coming to UNC Charlotte is the best choice I have ever made.

What activities were you involved in when not working/studying?

I was really involved with Beta Alpha Psi, which is the accounting honor society. I held a couple different positions on the leadership team and I was lucky enough to serve as President my last semester. I loved getting to work with my fellow students and local professionals to build our skills and learn more about the accounting profession. 

What was the best part of your academic experience?

I had the opportunity to be a part of the UNC Charlotte team in the Deloitte tax competition. Working closely with Dr. Godfrey and Dr. Wiggins to learn about tax research was a great experience. My team worked on a realistic case and got to see what it is like to present tax strategy to a client.

How would you describe the Belk College of Business to someone who is thinking about applying?

The Belk College is the best place to grow as both a student and a professional. We are exposed to all areas of business while being challenged in our chosen major. The best part is the professors; they are our teachers but most importantly, they are our advisors. Everyone in the college wants to see you succeed in life and in your career.

What have been your plans since graduating?

After completing the Masters of Accountancy program, I focused on passing all the CPA exam sections before starting work full time. I now work as an Audit Associate at Grant Thornton here in the Charlotte office. Through my job, I have had many opportunities to travel within the US and have gained experience with manufacturing and real estate companies

 

Lauren Collins graduated in May 2016 with a bachelor's degree in accounting and pursued her master's of accountancy degree.