Program Reflection and Career Alignment

Cory R. Smith
American Military University
BUSN499: Senior Seminar in Business Administration
Dr. Ken Edick
September 7, 2025

 

 

Abstract

This reflective essay evaluates key courses taken throughout the academic program and their relevance to career goals. The courses selected include Basics of Business, Accounting for Non-Accounting Majors, Law and Ethics in Business Administration, and Macroeconomics. Each section highlights critical course objectives, explains how they were met through coursework, and discusses their application to current or future professional environments. This reflection serves as a foundation for compiling a professional portfolio to be used in job interviews or career advancement opportunities.

 

 

                    

 

                    Throughout my academic journey, I have gained valuable knowledge and skills that directly support my professional development and career goals. This reflection focuses on four key courses that had a significant impact on my growth: Basics of Business, Accounting for Non-Accounting Majors, Law and Ethics in Business Administration, and Macroeconomics. Each course provided practical learning experiences and aligned closely with the competencies required in today’s business environment. By connecting course objectives with real-world applications, I am better prepared to contribute effectively to my current and future roles.

Basics of Business

                    The Basics of Business course provided an essential foundation in understanding the internal and external factors influencing business operations. One major takeaway was learning to describe the environment in which businesses operate (CO-1). Through assignments and case studies, I analyzed how political, economic, social, and technological forces shape strategic decision-making. This knowledge is vital in any business role, as it provides context for decision-making and long-term planning.

                    Another key course objective was understanding the role of ethics in the business environment (CO-4). Through class discussions and scenario-based learning, I gained the ability to identify ethical dilemmas and apply ethical frameworks in decision-making. This is directly relevant in roles involving leadership or client relationships, where ethical decision-making fosters trust and accountability.

                    We also explored various sources of business financing (CO-7). I learned to distinguish between equity, debt, and alternative funding mechanisms. In my coursework, I completed a financing plan project, applying this knowledge to a hypothetical startup—this directly supports my career goal of entering financial services or consulting.

                    Finally, the course examined the impact of technology on business decisions (CO-8). I researched the influence of AI and data analytics on operations and customer service. This insight is particularly useful as I seek positions in tech-driven industries, where innovation plays a crucial role.

Accounting for Non-Accounting Majors

                    This course clarified accounting principles and demonstrated how non-accountants can use financial data to make informed decisions. I began by understanding the difference between cash basis and accrual accounting (CO-1). This was reinforced through exercises comparing financial reports using both methods, providing me with insights that I now apply when reviewing financial documents in my internship.

                    The Accounting Cycle (CO-2) was another focus. We practiced journalizing, posting, adjusting entries, and preparing trial balances. Completing a simulated accounting cycle project enabled me to see the process end-to-end, which is useful in understanding how real-world companies maintain financial accuracy and accountability.

                    Analyzing financial ratios and breakeven analysis (CO-3) was instrumental in learning how to interpret business performance. I worked on a group project analyzing a small business's financial health, which helped me understand how management decisions can be supported by ratio analysis. This skill will be directly useful in roles involving budgeting, analysis, or operations.

                    Lastly, articulating the synthesis of a company's financial statements (CO-4) was a capstone experience. I conducted a financial review of a publicly traded company, identifying areas of strength and concern. This hands-on analysis helped me build confidence in reading financial reports and making strategic recommendations, skills critical to roles in business strategy or finance.

Law and Ethics in Business Administration

                    This course helped me understand the legal and ethical landscape of modern business. One of the initial course objectives was defining the legal environment applicable to businesses (CO-1). Through case law analysis and regulatory research, I learned how laws affect contracts, liability, and compliance. Vital knowledge in business operations or managerial roles.

                    I also reviewed basic business law concepts (CO-2), including contracts, torts, and intellectual property. Completing a mock contract negotiation assignment gave me practical experience in identifying enforceable contract terms and understanding legal risks, key skills for future managerial or entrepreneurial work.

                    Evaluating employment laws affecting business (CO-9) provided practical knowledge for handling HR-related challenges. I completed a policy proposal for a workplace harassment training program, which made me more aware of the importance of compliance and creating inclusive work environments. This is especially useful for leadership roles or HR-related careers.

                    Understanding the ethical environment (CO-10) was threaded throughout the course. We explored case studies such as whistleblowing and corporate fraud. One of my papers analyzed the ethical issues behind a real corporate scandal, allowing me to connect theoretical ethics to real-world consequences. These discussions reinforced the need for ethical leadership, a value I plan to carry into my professional life.

Macroeconomics

                    Macroeconomics gave me a broader view of how economic forces affect industries and businesses. One key objective was learning to apply macroeconomic theory to business (CO-1). Through analyzing market trends and economic indicators, I developed the ability to assess how inflation, interest rates, and government policies impact strategic planning.

                    We also studied Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and its implications (CO-2). In a group project, we tracked GDP fluctuations and connected them to consumer behavior, employment trends, and corporate performance. This reinforced the importance of understanding economic cycles when making business forecasts or investment decisions.

                    Defining economic growth and its determinants (CO-3) was another highlight. I explored how education, capital investment, and innovation drive long-term prosperity. My research paper on renewable energy and economic growth allowed me to explore how sustainable practices can contribute to national and global economies, aligning with my long-term goal of working in sustainable business development.

                    Lastly, we examined macroeconomic problems like unemployment and inflation (CO-4), particularly in how they affect resource allocation. We analyzed scenarios where businesses had to make tough choices during recessions or inflationary periods. Understanding these dynamics will help me better navigate uncertain economic climates in any business role.

                    This reflective essay highlights four key courses—Basics of Business, Accounting for Non-Accounting Majors, Law and Ethics in Business Administration, and Macroeconomics—and how their objectives align with my career goals. Each course provided practical knowledge, from understanding ethical and legal frameworks to applying financial analysis and macroeconomic theory in real-world business contexts. Through hands on projects, case studies, and critical thinking exercises, I gained valuable skills applicable to roles in finance, management, and business strategy. This reflection serves as both a summary of my academic growth and a foundation for presenting my qualifications to future employers.