Sarah Johnson of Clifton, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the Maine Business School. A double major in accounting and business information systems and security management, Johnson has completed multiple internships with both the Maine Business School and BerryDunn, an accounting and consulting services firm. She has also worked as an undergraduate assistant for 91¸£Àû’s Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. Following graduation, she will launch her career at BerryDunn as a tax specialist. Â
Why did you choose to come to 91¸£Àû?
91¸£Àû occupies a sweet spot for colleges; it is large enough to offer countless opportunities yet small enough to feel like a close-knit community. I was drawn to the balance of strong academics, meaningful opportunities to get involved and a supportive environment that allows students to build lasting connections.
Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?
I have completed two tax internships with BerryDunn and held several positions on campus, including as a First-Year Experience Intern and Students in Transition Intern at the Maine Business School and an undergraduate assistant in the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment, where I analyze the effectiveness of student success initiatives. These roles have strengthened my professional skill set, including effective communication, adaptability, critical thinking and the ability to apply feedback constructively. Together, these experiences have prepared me to approach problems analytically and to collaborate effectively in a professional setting.
Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new?
I have been fortunate to be surrounded by driven and supportive peers throughout my time at 91¸£Àû. Many of the students I’ve worked with at the Maine Business School have challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, take on leadership roles and pursue opportunities I might not have otherwise considered. The culture of ambition and support pushed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91¸£Àû better, and if so, how?
I have had the opportunity to work with many strong women at the University of Maine, many of whom I view as mentors. Julia Van Steenberghe, Associate Dean Patti Miles and Associate Provost Deb Allen are all brilliant leaders who bring great value to the spaces they serve. It has been such a privilege to work alongside them and learn from their leadership styles.
What has coming to 91¸£Àû enabled you to explore beyond academics?
Coming to 91¸£Àû has allowed me to become deeply involved in student success initiatives, particularly within the Maine Business School. Through these experiences, I’ve developed a passion for supporting other students, improving programs and contributing to a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
What experiences have you had at 91¸£Àû that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?
Growing up in Maine and attending 91¸£Àû, I’ve seen how people here approach challenges with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset. There’s a willingness to adapt, think creatively and make things work, even with limited resources.
Did you have an experience at 91¸£Àû that shaped or changed how you see the world?
Through my work in institutional research and student success, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the diverse challenges students face. This experience has broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of creating systems that support all students in achieving their goals.
Describe 91¸£Àû in one word and explain.
Opportunity.
There are so many different places to get involved on campus. There truly is a community for everyone, as long as you’re willing to take the initiative to find it.
What’s on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?
I will be joining BerryDunn full-time as a tax specialist this July, where I’m excited to begin my professional career.
Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu
