Chris Wiggan ’24 Excels at Ernst & Young Internship, Receives Offer to Return Next Summer

Student Success

Name: Chris Wiggan ’24
Major: Finance
Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.
High School: St. Edmund Preparatory High School
Activities: Reading, DJing and hanging out with friends.
Favorite Place on Campus: My favorite place on campus is of course the LaPenta School of Business. It is so spacious, vivid, and aesthetically pleasing. I feel I can get all my work done there.

Why did you decide to attend Iona?
I decided to go to Iona because it felt very familiar. Coming from a small catholic school of 750 kids, I am used to the small classroom size and one on-one connections with my professors. I knew Iona was the perfect place for me to achieve my goals.

What influenced you selecting your LaPenta School of Business (LSB) major?
I was always interested in business even before coming to Iona. I chose to major in the LaPenta School of Business because it is AACSB accredited. Coming from an AACSB-accredited school is a huge advantage when applying to jobs.

Have you completed (or are currently completing) an internship? If so, what organization and location?
I just completed an internship with Ernst & Young in the consulting practice.

What did/do you enjoy most about your internship?
I enjoyed the learning process. I was able to absorb a lot of information in a short period of time and actually provide input in needed areas.

In what ways has Iona prepared you for the job market?
Iona has taught me that using the people in your network can be one of your greatest advantages. I have been presented with several opportunities through alumni connections.

What do you feel is the most distinctive advantage gained from your Iona LSB experience?
The most distinctive advantage gained from my LaPenta School of Business experience is being able to meet impressive alumni in my classes - from corporate CEOs to entrepreneurs. They share valuable career advice that I carry with me every day.

What LSB faculty or staff member has made a positive impact on your future? Why?
One LSB faculty that has made a positive impact on my experience is Professor Richard Barry. Professor Barry is an Iona alumnus and former Ernst and Young partner. He would give me tips on how to thrive in my internship. Because of him I now have a return offer next summer.