Seton Hill Alumni Return For Workshop as KPMG Representatives

The Seton Hill Business Department recently partnered with KPMG to host an experiential learning workshop for undergraduate students. Over 60 students from four business classes worked together on a case study meant to simulate the projects that interns work on at KPMG. Representatives from KPMG advised students through the project and gave them feedback. In addition to the case study exercise, the KPMG representatives gave students insights into internship preparation. They spoke about internships with their company and what to expect. This included application timelines, company expectations, and the connections and experiences interns gain.

Among the KPMG representatives at the workshop were two Seton Hill alumni. Sarah Gilliam is a two-time Seton Hill graduate. She first graduated in 2024 with a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Information Management and minors in Finance, Spanish, and Entrepreneurial Studies. In 2025, Gilliam earned her MBA in Business Analytics. While at The Hill, she was a thrower on the Track & Field team, President of Finance Club, part of the THINK Program, and a member of the Black Student Union and the Honors Program. Gilliam now serves as an Advisory Associate at KPMG with experience in the risk, regulatory and compliance fields for financial institutions.

Ki Givens also returned to Seton Hill as a KPMG representative. In 2022, Givens graduated with a bachelor’s in Accounting and minors in Computer Forensics and Entrepreneurial Studies. She returned to earn her MBA in Forensic Accounting from Seton Hill shortly after. While she was a student, Givens was a member of the softball team, the Honors Program, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Business Club, and Entrepreneurial Club. She also served as the president of the Accounting Society. Givens now serves as a Senior Associate in Audit at KPMG with experience serving clients in the manufacturing and cryptocurrency industries.

Seton Hill helped me develop not only the technical and professional skills needed for success, but also the character, relationships, and confidence that continue to shape my career today.

After the workshop, we caught up with Gilliam and Givens to see how being a Seton Hill alum got them where they are today.

What experiences at Seton Hill helped you get to where you are in your career today?

SARAH: The support from professors, staff, and mentors played a key role in helping me get where I am today. When I first arrived at Seton Hill, I was immediately met with resources to build a foundation for success. Professor Lyzona Marshall and the entire School of Business provided me with opportunities to grow and thrive as a student and leader.

KI: Looking back, it was the combination of athletics, mentorship, and campus involvement that prepared me most for my career. Seton Hill helped me develop not only the technical and professional skills needed for success, but also the character, relationships, and confidence that continue to shape my career today.

What did the journey look like getting from Seton Hill to KPMG?

SARAH: I was looking for internships and Professor Marshall told me about a program she was starting to get high schools in the area involved in accounting, finance, and cybersecurity where KPMG was the sponsor. Through the THINK program I learned more about the company and connected with other Seton Hill alums and KPMG employees. I applied for an internship, went through the interview process, then completed the 7-week program. Following the conclusion of the internship, I applied for an Advisory Associate role and received a full-time offer.

KI: My journey to KPMG started with advice from my parents, who are both CPAs. Early on, they encouraged me to pursue a career with a Big Four firm, so I dedicated myself to maintaining a strong GPA, getting involved on campus, and expanding my network. As it turned out, networking made all the difference. Through a friend of a friend, I was introduced to the KPMG recruiter, which led to an interview, an internship, and ultimately a full-time position as an Audit Associate.

What do you remember most about Seton Hill?

SARAH: The people are what I remember most about my time at Seton Hill. I was incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by great people. Whether it was professors, mentors, staff, teammates, or friends, everyone made such an impact on me. The Seton Hill community continues long after just your time on the Hill.

KI: When I look back at Seton Hill, I remember the people most. My coaches, professors, mentors, teammates, and fellow students challenged me, supported me, and helped me grow into the person and professional I am today. The lessons I learned through softball, leadership roles, and mentorship opportunities continue to influence how I work, lead, and support others in my career.

Have any advice for current Seton Hill students?

SARAH: Try new things and explore life beyond your comfort zone. It is important to have your safe spaces but also have the courage to do things you wouldn’t expect. Say yes to opportunities and take advantage of what life has to offer. Also, appreciate the little things. Time flies by and it is easy to get caught up in a moment but take time to recognize those small moments that are usually overlooked.

KI: Get involved, build meaningful relationships, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Some of the most impactful opportunities in my life came from relationships with professors, teammates, mentors, and friends. Success isn't just about academics or athletics; it's about developing the skills, character, and network that will help you long after graduation.