Binghamton University sprinter chases dream career in accounting

After a first year at Binghamton University drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, sophomore Jessica Faustin is still running toward her dream career in accounting.

A sprinter and hurdler with the Binghamton Women’s Track and Field Team, as well as the recipient of a Saw Mill Capital Opportunity Business Scholarship, Faustin is learning that being on a sports team helps amplify her skills as a student in the School of Management (SOM).

“Track has taught me time management and commitment,” says Faustin, who plans to earn a master’s degree as well through Binghamton’s 4+1 degree program. “Between athletics, academics and socializing, it’s often hard for me to find time to unwind and relax. However, I’ve learned how to manage my time better and stay on schedule each day.

“Being on a sports team has also taught me commitment. For track, this included going to practice on time, remembering to get tested (for COVID) three times a week and taking care of myself on and off the track. By having a set schedule each day, I have been able to complete schoolwork by the intended deadline and stay committed to getting the grades I want, without losing motivation.”

Her love for track and journey to Binghamton

Faustin, from Lake Grove, N.Y., first joined a school track team when she was in seventh grade.

“I knew from the start that I was more of a sprinter because I did not like the idea of running for long periods of time,” she says. “What I’ve always loved about running sprints is the quick pace of each workout or race. It feels good to run fast and have it over within seconds. What I love about track is the community.”

She quickly found that camaraderie at Binghamton, too.

“I chose Binghamton University because of its friendly atmosphere,” she says. “During my first visit, everyone I came in contact with was so nice and genuinely seemed like they loved the campus. For athletics, the coaching staff was very welcoming and was invested in helping the athletes reach their highest potential.”

Faustin was also excited about the opportunities in SOM.

“I saw that the School of Management was excellent in providing undergraduate students with a great education and many opportunities for internships, jobs, mock interviews and career-related activities,” she says.

A team of support

Faustin is involved in student organizations including the Accounting Association and the National Association of Black Accountants. She also has track and field teammates and coaches cheering her on and alumni backing her up as the 2020-21 recipient of the Saw Mill Capital Opportunity Business Scholarship.

Like many firms in the financial services industry, Saw Mill Capital has struggled to improve diversity among its investment team, says Howard D. Unger ’82, LHD ’19, managing partner and founder of the company, in Briarcliff Manor, N.Y.

“We believe that having diverse backgrounds and points of view results in better decision-making,” Unger says. “However, for many years, we have struggled to find qualified, diverse applicants to meet our needs due to the lack of an available pipeline.”

The scholarship will help by supporting the success of underrepresented SOM students. And, by investing in the potential of these students, Saw Mill is making a difference in enhancing the talent pool of job candidates and strengthening the financial services sector.

“When I first found out I received the scholarship, I was ecstatic, surprised and overwhelmingly thankful. I kept refreshing the page to make sure it was legit,” Faustin says.

Faustin notes that the costs of college for her and her family are adding up: Her sister is also an undergraduate student and her brother earned his bachelor’s degree just last year.

“This scholarship is making a significant difference in my life,” she says.

Chasing her dreams

The accounting field appeals to Faustin because it offers diverse and plentiful opportunities.

“Every industry needs professionals to manage its finances,” she says. “There are also many careers within accounting that have a variety of different jobs depending on which one you choose.

“I want to pursue this career to help individuals and corporations with their finances, while adapting the skills necessary to possibly open my own firm.”

Despite the challenges, COVID-19 hasn’t stopped Faustin from enjoying Binghamton.

“The pandemic came with a lot of challenges for me academically, athletically and mentally,” she says. “However, I was still able to have a fun first year of college by meeting new people, hanging out with friends and trying my best to enjoy the different on-campus activities available. Even though it wasn’t a normal year, I still had a great experience.”