Plans for Succeeding in the Workplace: Ian Barton '18 BSBA (Accounting and Finance)

Ian Barton is from Nogales, Arizona, with a double major in Accounting and Finance. He also has a Spanish minor and plans to graduate in May 2018. Check out his responses to our six questions below:

Why did you choose the UA?

Both of my parents were Wildcats, so making the choice was easy! It definitely helped to have a great business school and scholarship opportunities, however.

What made you choose your major?

I chose Accounting and Finance because I am really good with numbers and want to work on the business side of a major sports organization one day.

What type of professional experience have you had so far?

I am currently a Development Intern for the Wildcat Club, which is the fundraising arm of Arizona Athletics. Previously I was a Marketing and Operations Intern for the Barcelona International Water polo Academy (which I did through Eller’s summer internship program). I was also a Financial Intern for the National Institute for Civil Discourse, which focuses on politics and civic engagement.

How have you been involved on campus so far?

I have been involved in multiple student organizations. I am currently the Vice President of Administration for the Eller Ambassadors. I previously held the position of VP of Finance. I am also currently the Director of Finance for the Sports Marketing Association. Previously, I was in the Sports Career Honorary. I am also currently a member of the Task Force Honorary which is a part of the Student Alumni Ambassadors. I was the Lighting of “A” Mountain chair for a group, where I planned the event entirely. Earlier in my college career, I was a member of Eller Scholars and the Blue Chip Program. I am a McCord Scholar through the Eller College and a Flinn Scholar, which recognizes the top 20 graduating high school seniors in Arizona who elect to stay in the state for college.

What has your involvement and professional experience taught you?

It has taught me so much about myself and my ability to work in teams because I have been on various boards with different people. I have learned as much from them as I have from the tasks themselves. My involvement has allowed me to step in and challenge myself in many ways, whether it be event planning, fundraising or public speaking. My involvement is ultimately what makes me a well-rounded person and someone who has the people skills to succeed in the workplace.

What are your plans for the rest of college and after graduation?

My plan for the rest of college is to remain involved in my student organizations and hopefully become president of one of them. I am trying to get an internship with the NBA or ESPN this summer. Finally, I want to finish my major strong and better myself every day.  My plan after college is to go to grad school for my MBA or a Master’s in Sports Management.

Photo: Ian Barton (far left) with executive board of Sports Marketing Association.