Meet Anna Cortines ('22, '23)

Graduate student Anna Cortines graduated from Western in Spring ’22 with a BA in accounting. She is currently working on her Master of Professional Accounting and will graduate from that program in Spring ’23. Anna hails from Kent, Washington.

Why did you choose Western?

As with many other students, I chose Western for the accessible outdoors! It was a tough decision among several other schools, but donor generosity was an attractive factor that drew me to Bellingham.

What do you like about Western?

I love how passionate everyone is about pursing their own interests and hobbies. There seems to be a community, support, resources, or opportunities for nearly anything students desire to explore. Although school gets undoubtedly stressful at times, I feel so fortunate to work and study in such a beautiful environment.

How is your student ambassador experience? What are your duties?

The student ambassador program is the cherry on top of my Western experience. In college, it is easy to become excessively focused on my own academic and professional goals. However, participating in the student ambassador program allows me to step back, give back, and support the rest of my peers through cultivating relationships with Western donors and constituents. For both students and donors, relaying appreciation and the positive impact of donor generosity is an important duty for student ambassadors. Additionally, being a part of this team has allowed me to make connections with so many students across all colleges.

Which professors do you work with? What is your favorite class?

My graduate colloquium classes are among my favorite in the program. I enjoy working with a small cohort of students within a seminar-style class.

How as philanthropy helped you as a student?

Receiving a scholarship last year was the extra boost of confidence that I needed to continue my higher education and pursue my Masters in Professional Accounting! Many of my classmates are also beneficiaries, and my educational experience would not be as enriching as it is without them. I attribute a great part of my success at Western to collaboration with my classmates, many of which are here because of donor support.

What would you like to say to a someone who has made a gift to support Western students and programs?

Thank you! Supporting students and programs truly leads to a ripple effect of positive outcomes.

What do you do when you aren’t in class?

When I am not in class I am typically outside! I don’t like letting the cold weather stop me from running, playing tennis, hiking or taking a stroll along the water. 

Where is your happy place either on campus or in Bellingham?

My happy place in Bellingham is anywhere along Chuckanut. On campus, my happy place is Old Main; I absolutely love working alongside the University Advancement staff.

What are your professional dreams and goals?  Where could you see yourself in five years?

I am open-minded and excited to see where the opportunities in accounting can take me. In five years, I hope that I am working abroad in Spain and putting my Spanish education to practice. I want to meet as many people and visit as many places as I can!