Amartya Rajbhandary
Graduation year: 2022
High school: Rato Bangala School
Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal
Majors: Accounting; data analytics; business administration (management information systems)
Activities: Honor Council, student data analyst, Advancement ambassador, Soccer Club
Internships: Augustana's EDGE Center online marketing program intern; Adora Winquist finance/accounting intern; SiriusXM accounting intern; Mohr Accounting, Inc., tax intern
Post-grad plans: Study for CPA exams and work full-time at Deloitte Minneapolis
Why Augustana?
The small class size, the beautiful campus, and the faculty members/professors who truly care about you.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I knew that I wanted to be an accounting major and have achieved that. However, I never imagined that I would have the opportunity to do multiple internships, have a job offer before graduation and build so many meaningful relationships with my professors. I am thankful to Augie for providing such an environment of growth and inclusiveness.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Professor Mamata Marmé for being the most compassionate advisor. Her commitment toward every individual student really shows, and I am grateful for having such a helpful advisor. Professor Nadia Schwartz for providing constant guidance in my academics and professional development.
Lastly, I would like to thank my friends and family. Specifically, Prajwal Sarkar and Samridha Rana for always keeping me motivated.
Peak experience?
The entire four years of college from start to finish has been a wonderful journey. Through my experiences I have developed into a more assured and independent individual. Specifically, I valued working as an accounting intern in Sirius XM. This internship enabled me to increase my technical expertise and was a great starting point in my professional career.
What surprised you?
I was surprised by the amount of different clubs and activities to do on campus. I felt that every student at Augustana has a group that makes them feel included and gives them the opportunity to express themselves.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to finance the EDGE Center online marketing internship program.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss my friends, the Augie culture and my professors.
Advice for the Class of 2026?
There will be numerous opportunities that will come your way — make the best out of them.
"The first thing that struck me about Amartya was his drive. It was a drive that went beyond ambition. He seemed to have a drive to work hard, to learn as much as he could, and to ask questions. The second time he took a class from me, his questions showed an even higher level of thinking. His curiosity about what he was learning was exceptional. I wish that I could keep seeing him grow as he moves ahead."