When it comes to his career, recent College of Business graduate Chad Chargualaf is eager to get out the door and start the journey.
In May 2024, Chargualaf earned a degree in Finance with a minor in Accounting from the College of Business, an achievement he’s already putting to use with an upcoming position as a Financial Institution Specialist at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) in Pheonix, Arizona.
Chargualaf’s introduction to finance and accounting started in high school.
“I was highly involved in organizations like DECA and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where I was able to get exposure to the business world,” he said. “It was because of these organizations that I was set on obtaining a degree in business.”
With picturesque mountain scenery, proximity to home, and an AACSB-accredited business program, UCCS seemed like the perfect fit for Chargualaf.
While at UCCS, Chargualaf enjoyed building relationships with his professors.
“The College of Business professors have been amazing,” he said. “They all bring unique experiences and a mix of industry experiences that make the courses engaging. I felt like they truly cared about their students. Some of the most impactful professors I had were Dr. McAllister, Dr. Cliff Li, Dr. Kocsis, and Dr. Peng.”
He also found the smaller class sizes and flexibility of courses to be very helpful as he worked part-time.
“I took summer classes and a few pre-terms which helped me graduate early,” he said. “Even though I was on the finance track, I was able to take courses and get exposure to other areas pivotal in business. For instance, I took information systems and management courses and learned a lot about those fields.”
Chargualaf also gained a wealth of career-related knowledge from the College of Business Career Development Center.
“The Career Development Center is an amazing resource that I feel like few students in the College of Business utilize,” he shared. “I went there for a LinkedIn seminar and learned how to make my profile more presentable. I was even able to get a free blazer and headshot for my LinkedIn profile. On top of that, I completed two internships while at UCCS – both of which I found from attending Career Networking Night.”
Now officially post-grad, Chargualaf is eager to get started at his new job.
“In this role, I’ll be examining FDIC insured financial institutions in the Phoenix region. Specifically, I’ll be examining a bank’s financial condition, risk management program, and internal control structure. This position is a three- and half-year training program to become a commissioned bank examiner. After I pass the technical exam (TE), I will become a commission bank examiner, where it will open opportunities for me to move up and become a supervisor or manager. I look forward to learning a lot and seeing what risk management has to offer.”
Although he’ll be moving away from home, Chargualaf is excited for this journey and feels prepared thanks to his education at UCCS.
“UCCS has prepared me for this position because it has given me exposure to the banking industry,” he said. “For example, I took a money and banking course that taught me the fundamentals and complexities of the banking system. I also feel confident working with others, thanks to all the group projects I had.”
Eventually Chargualaf plans to obtain a master’s degree and further develop his leadership skills in a management role.
Chargualaf encourages anyone considering UCCS to take the plunge.
“You won’t regret it,” he said. “It’s a great campus with amazing views. If you work hard and push yourself, you can accomplish whatever you intend to. You get what you put in.”
For those considering the College of Business specifically, Chargualaf adds, “I would tell them it’s a phenomenal business program. You will learn a lot and it might be challenging at times, but the professors care and will take the time to help you.”