A day in the life of a first-generation Auburn accounting student [VIDEO]

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It’s officially Fall, which means it is time for high schoolers to start sending in college applications. But what can they expect when they step foot on campus for the first time?

At Auburn University, no one knows better than Johanna Mondragon-Olvera—a first-generation college student majoring in Accounting at the Harbert College of Business.

Bham Now tagged along with Johanna to see what a typical day looks like at Auburn University.

Meet Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

Born in Birmingham but raised in Fairhope, Johanna Mondragon-Olvera is a junior honors student at the Harbert College of Business at Auburn University.

“I’m a first-generation student, so college seemed impossible to me at first. However, Auburn provided financial aid and scholarship opportunities that will allow me to graduate debt-free—which is something that I’ll always be grateful for.

My dad only gave me one condition coming into college: job security. He wanted me to find a major that I was passionate about and would support me outside of Auburn.”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

At the urging of Auburn Program Champion Colby Lakas, Johanna took a personality test, which recommended she major in Accounting.

A day in the life of an honors business student at Auburn

An early riser, Johanna kicks off her day with a morning walk with friends—the perfect way to catch up while getting in those steps.

After the walk, it’s back to the dorm to get dressed and ready for the day before heading to Lowder Hall—home to the Raymond J. Harbert College of Business. 

“My first stop is usually the Executive Society office—it’s a quiet space where I can get a lot of work done and catch up on emails.

Plus, it has a coffeemaker. So, I can get my morning caffeine!”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

After getting caught up on emails, Johanna heads to the classroom for her two classes of the day—Finance and Accounting on Thursdays, for example.

“I’ve set up my schedule to have classes around 8AM or 9:30AM—that’s when I’m most attentive. So, I like to get my classes knocked out in the morning.”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

After classes let out, Johanna typically has a mid-day break—perfect for getting started on homework, catching up with friends and grabbing a bite to eat.

“My usual lunch spot is Chicken Salad Chick, but sometimes I mix it up with the food trucks we have on campus!”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

Johanna is very involved in extracurriculars—including the Executive Society and Student Council—so she’ll also use her break to check in with her advisors and make sure she’s up-to-date on any assignments.

“My involvement with extracurriculars has helped me develop both professionally and personally.

Whether it’s hands-on service—like Campus Kitchen, where we address food insecurity—giving tours to prospective students as a Harbert College of Business Executive Society member, these programs have helped me grow as both a student and an individual.”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

After her break is over, Johanna heads back to Lowder Hall, where she hosts tutoring sessions from 2PM to 3:30PM.

“I’ve worked really hard to build a foundation of knowledge for myself. So, to be able to share that with freshmen who need that mentor and academic support is one of the most rewarding things I get to do.

It’s such a good feeling to work with a student who feels lost and get them to an A by the end of the semester.”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

Once she wraps up tutoring, Johanna likes to fill her evenings hanging out with friends, discipleship groups or attending church.

Learn more about student life at the Harbert College of Business

To learn more about opportunities with the Harbert College of Business, visit their website to request more information, plan your visit or apply to the college. 

“To any prospective students considering Auburn, come in with an open mind. There is truly so much you can get involved with, and the more you pour into Auburn, the more it pours into you.”

Johanna Mondragon-Olvera

Want to see what makes the Harbert College of Business a special place? Make sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn to learn more!

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