Post Classifieds

ASSET

Advancing Smith Students' EducaTion

By Megan McNerney

On October 6, 2009

Pin It

Catchy pneumonic, right? We have yet another club in SUSA! On Monday, October 05, the club presidents voted to admit the newly proposed organization, ASSET, into SUSA. Leading the new club are faculty advisor Mark Taranto and undergraduate students Mark Shorr, Rob Dickson, Matt Carlton, and Peter Cooch.

From the beginning of the proposal, the club's mission statement had me engaged and wanting to hear more. "ASSET seeks to assist students in quest of a higher education. By providing necessary tools and proper direction, we will help students take a proactive role in pursuing their educational futures." In further detail, the leaders explained how they aim to promote the awareness of graduate level opportunities and guidance for those contemplating graduate level schooling because, in today's world, a graduate degree is a tremendous asset when launching a career.

ASSET will host information meetings, guest speakers, school visits, on-site test preparation, mock examinations (GRE, LSAT, GMAT), and admissions consultants – the whole nine yards! I know the looming question in every student's mind at this moment is: "What about the budget cuts? How can Smith afford this?" The answer is this: ASSET does not seek SUSA funding. The Manhattan GMAT Prep has gone into contract with ASSET for funding of over $1000 per semester. They will be providing information, tutoring, and practice tests at no cost to the students! Whereas many students complete undergraduate study hoping to eventually attend grad school (but have no idea how to go about getting into one), ASSET will work to fit the students' skills and goals into a grad school preparation program designed for their preferences.

In my personal opinion, this club is an astounding addition to our business school. It will create a stronger alumni network, promote a professional atmosphere, and enhance Smith students' credibility when entering the work force.

Congratulations to SUSA's newest addition, ASSET, and to everyone who takes advantage of the opportunities that the club has to offer!