Accounting for success

Emmanuel Ntui graduating next week with bachelor’s in business administration

By California State University, Bakersfield

May 6^th, 2024

Emmanuel Ntui quickly realized an engineering major wasn’t a good fit for him when he first transferred to California State University, Bakersfield from Bakersfield College in 2020.

“I just didn’t have a real passion for it,” he said. “I felt like I was just in it for the money.”

While pursuing the major, Ntui took a risk and decided to create his own online business, Anti LLC, which sold skin care products. While he ultimately had to put operations on hold in 2022 because he could no longer afford to keep the business afloat, Ntui said it was a great learning experience.

“It gave me that drive to be in the business setting,” he said. “It made me want to learn more about business in school, so I decided to switch majors to accounting.”

Ntui, a Bakersfield native, is graduating from CSUB next week with his bachelor’s in business administration with a concentration in accounting. He will continue his education at Texas Southern University this fall, where he will pursue his Master’s in Business Administration.

“It didn’t hit me at first that I’m graduating,” he said. “It was a long journey, but I’m glad I’ve hit that milestone. I’m ready for the next chapter of my life.”

Since the fall, Ntui has been involved in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, through which student volunteers provide free tax services to individuals and families with low incomes. The experience has led him to become interested in starting his own tax preparation business someday.

“It was eye-opening how simple doing taxes can be. I feel like I could do this professionally,” he said. “It’s been a good experience helping these individuals. The fact that I had these older people seeking my guidance, putting their trust in me, it was great. It’s encouraged me to do more.”

VITA Director Dr. Benjamin Bae, who encouraged Ntui to join the program, said he worked well with the other student volunteers and was committed to the work.

“In fact, he was willing to go the extra mile beyond his responsibilities,” he said. “I believe he is a very motivated and dedicated accounting student who is getting ready for the accounting profession.”

'I feel like I've grown'

Ntui has also stayed active on campus outside of the classroom. He currently works as a student assistant for the departments of Student Access and Support (SAS), Outreach Services and Athletics. Much of his work has involved representing CSUB off-campus encouraging prospective students to apply to the university.

“I think I’ve made an impact on these kids, giving them an overview of what it’s like being a college student, giving them insight on being at a four-year college,” he said.

SAS Director Darius Riggins said Ntui has been a valuable contributor to the office.

“He is a team player and is well-liked by his student assistant counterparts. He has also shown himself as one to model after as it pertains to academic excellence,” he said. “I am proud to be able to say that he is a product of the Student Access and Support office!”

Ntui is also a member of Excel Scholars, which aims to improve access, retention and graduation rates for male students of color. He is currently serving as treasurer of the club.

“Having that role in the club made me grow in terms of being seen as a mentor. It gave me a sense of responsibility,” he said. “It’s also been helpful in terms of connections on campus. It’s where I’ve gotten all of my positions.”

While his journey at CSUB wasn’t what he originally envisioned, Ntui is grateful for all of the opportunities he’s been given during the time he’s spent at the university.

“I feel like I’ve grown as a person. CSUB allowed me to put myself out there and get involved,” he said. “I’m trying to be a student leader on campus as much as possible.”

Ntui also credited his family for their unwavering support over the years, even at times when he was unsure what career path he wanted to take. Early on in his CSUB career, he was going to take a semester away from the university to focus on his online business. His parents urged him to continue with his schooling.

“My family has never given up on me when it comes to the different passions I’ve had. They’ve always believed in me and pushed me to go to college,” he said. “I appreciate them always holding me at high standards.”

For the first time, Ntui will be living on his own while attending graduate school in Texas. While he is a little anxious about being so far away from family, he is looking forward to the move.