Turning Dreams Into Reality: Accounting, MBA Grad Hired as Senior Tax Analyst for International Glass Company Alumni Profile

Meet James Nusser

Job Title & Employer

Senior Tax Analyst, Vitro Architectural Glass

Majors/Programs

Accounting, MBA

Graduation

2017, 2019

Hometown

Hookstown, Pa.

High School

South Side Area High School

Now Living In

Etna, Pa.

Dream Job

Director of tax for a mid-sized company

Why did you decide to transfer to Point Park University?

When I decided to return to school for a degree higher than a high school diploma, I went to a college fair at the Pittsburgh Convention Center. When I arrived, all dressed up in my new suit, the venue staff insisted I was just too old to be admitted for a chance to discuss my desires with any of the colleges in attendance.

After trying to speak with multiple people in charge, I turned to leave and was stopped by a young lady who offered to me that if I entered the event and asked hypothetical admission questions for other younger family members, she would sell me a ticket and she did just that. Once inside moving from one booth to another, I was met again with the challenges of being a mature adult seeking to attend a university. I was told they could certainly speak to any of my children and provide advice, but not for adult learners.

As I was heading for the exit, and completely discouraged, the admissions staff running the Point Park University booth stopped me to inquire why I was looking so gloomy, so, I explained my situation to them. The Point Park admissions staff immediately began to help me navigate my potential options and provided a general roadmap on how I could finally accomplish my dream of getting a degree. I owe them my heartfelt praise for taking the extra time to discuss the abounding opportunities at Point Park University for people of all ages. 

How have your accounting classes helped you as a senior tax analyst?

The multitude of accounting classes I took at Point Park University certainly solidified my understanding of international accounting principles. I am certainly grateful to the extraordinarily talented instructors at Point Park University. I would also like to add that my years of real-world experience often enhanced my classroom learning experience during open discussions regarding complex accounting scenarios. All of the professors warmly welcomed my input and made me feel appreciated.

What factors made you decide to continue at Point Park and pursue an MBA degree?

Without a doubt in my mind, the incredibly gifted faculty at Point Park University made the decision to continue for my MBA a simple one. After completing my undergraduate studies, I couldn’t imagine attending any other university.

How has our faculty impacted you?

The faculty at Point Park University generate learning which is engaging, challenging and a rewarding experience of a lifetime. I hope to give back to Point Park University through some form of tutoring of future accounting students as my way to show my deep gratitude to the faculty for always ensuring that I was acknowledged for the life experiences I shared in the classroom.

Final thoughts?

Currently, I am working in the tax department of a growing international company that utilizes my degree and affords opportunities to travel when handling internal and external aspects of regulatory compliance or audits. The realities of tax accounting throughout the world are always evolving as treaties and trade agreements between countries change. For me, the perpetual transforming of domestic and foreign accounting regulations keeps global tax compliance interesting.

Connect with James Nusser

More About: Rowland School of Business, accounting, M.B.A., transfer, alumni, Downtown Pittsburgh