How Ariel Chandler Found Her Passion in the Online LSUA BS in Accounting

Like many students returning to school after time away, Ariel Chandler faced uncertainty and questioned where her career strengths were. However, after enrolling in the online Bachelor of Science in Accounting from LSU Alexandria through LSU Online & Continuing Education, Ariel not only found her professional path but also discovered just how capable, resilient, and passionate she really is.

From customer service to accounting, Ariel has made an inspiring leap. Her journey is a reminder that when you choose the right program, the right support system, and the right mindset, transformation is not just possible—it's inevitable.

Meet Ariel Chandler

How did you balance life, work, and studies?

I am very fortunate to have not only selected such a great program, but I work for some incredibly awesome people. Doing the online program allowed me to balance and do my assignments at times that worked best for me.

I created schedules and set priorities where they were necessary for life, work, and my studies. Time management is a big aspect of how to handle studies, work, and life in general.

What were your biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?

One of my biggest challenges was learning how to study again. I have always been someone who could just read the material and then learn it that way. However, I found that this would not work for me. I did trial and error and talked with my professors to find the most efficient way to study. For me, it was reading the chapters and taking notes, then completing assignments. By taking notes and going back through the material, I could retain what I was learning.

What was your favorite course or topic? Why?

Tax Accounting and Financial Planning & Analysis

Both classes are where I found my passion. I love all aspects of accounting, but Tax Accounting and FP&A just have something about them. I love being able to fit together puzzle pieces to create the bigger picture with both classes/topics.

How did the program prepare you for your career or career advancement?

Before this program, I worked in customer service and loved every second of it. The further I went into the program, the better my skill set became for transferring to the industry I want to work in.

This program has prepared me to show the skillset I have learned throughout each course and the leadership skills I have gained from assisting classmates.

My mindset and the tools utilized for my career have been developed because of this program, and now I get to showcase that every day.

How has the program impacted your personal and professional life?

I cannot say this enough: this program has changed my life in all aspects. It allowed me to see my own potential.

Professionally, I have moved to the industry my degree is in. My confidence has been restored because of different classes, presentations, and problem-solving assignments. This confidence has allowed me to be a better leader in my current role with my company.

For my personal life, it helped me to find myself again. Being in the program allowed me to get out of my comfort zone. I was able to develop a growth mindset and embrace change.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering the program?

If you think that going back to school is a big change, it is. But change can be the best thing for you. Nobody ever got anywhere by staying the same. Embrace change, and it will embrace you right back.

What was your favorite aspect of the program?

The professors in this program actually care about the students and their learning. They want to make sure every student understands what is being taught. Every professor I have worked with for each course has gone above and beyond to ensure I had everything I needed to succeed when I did not understand a concept or a topic.

The online BS in Accounting from LSUA provides practical applications for what you are learning. Real-world issues are given to you to resolve, and it's such a thrill to be able to apply the knowledge we learn in the classroom to real-life scenarios.

Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

LSU Online has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. When I went to college for my first round after high school, I thought my passion was nursing. However, after many years of trying and feeling like it was not working out, I found it was time to take a break. When I came back to the idea of what I might want to do with my life, I found LSU Online. This online accounting program has shown me what I am capable of doing with my life in all aspects.

Forever an LSU Girl!

Chart Your Own Path with LSU Online & Continuing Education

Whether you're returning to school, making a career pivot, or looking to level up in your current role, the online Bachelor of Science in Accounting from LSUA can help you gain in-demand skills, build confidence, and make a real impact in the workplace. Already have your bachelor’s degree? Consider the online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting.

Ariel's story is just one of many made possible by the flexible, career-focused programs available through LSU Online.

Want to create your own story? Explore all online programs and take the first step toward your future today!