Christopher Smith

Quick Facts

Program: B.S. in Accounting
Graduation Year: 2013
Current Job Title: Assurance Senior at BDO USA, LLP
Hometown: Antioch, CA
Current City: Irvine, CA

Life at CBU

Why did you choose your major? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I originally started at CBU with the intent to graduate with a business administration degree. I always had a passion for math and numbers but also knew I was not interested in teaching math. During my sophomore year at CBU, I had a professor by the name of Aaron Christopher who was very passionate about accounting. Based on his background and stories he had told us in class along with accounting clicking for me right away, I knew this was the path for me. It was early second semester that I switched to accounting.

What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
I really enjoyed the professors I had as well as the students in my class. Being approximately 30 of us going through the same classes together for three years was really fun for me and I was able to build lasting friendships. The professors were very knowledgeable in their fields and were always available to help us if any of us were struggling. I learned the skills and knowledge in the accounting field that set me up for success after CBU. Also, I enjoyed being at a Christian-based school in which principles from the Bible were implemented into the programs.  

Did you participate in anything at CBU?  
I participated in the CBU Accounting Society and was president of the club in fall 2012 (my first semester, senior year). I was able to help myself and others get connected with professionals and find jobs after college. It was rewarding for everyone involved. 

Life after CBU

What have you done since graduating?
Since graduating with my MBA from CBU in December 2013, I have worked for BDO and continued to be promoted from intern to staff to senior, which is my current position. I married another CBU accounting alumnus in June 2016. 

How has your major and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
My major in accounting has helped me obtain a position with the fifth largest accountancy network firm in the world which I have been with since January 2014 (about 3.5 years). The students we have recruited from the CBU accounting program have been top notch, even over some of the larger, well-known accounting universities in our area. There is a lot of credit to be given to the professors who have prepared me and other students to work for our company over the last few years.

Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life today?
I learned everything—down to debits, credits and computer software such as Excel (which is irreplaceable in the accounting profession). Also taking five minutes in the morning to have a devotional and time with God has stayed with me through the years.

How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
I take each day at a time, fulfilling my purpose daily as a godly husband to my wife, a helpful friend and coworker, and a Good Samaritan to anyone who needs help. I have found a job that provides skills and knowledge that help me give back to society. At work, I strive to be the best, hardest worker for the firm, to always have a good attitude and to sow Christ to those around me.