Deciding to pursue business school is a bold step toward a career in accounting, finance, management, or beyond. But what does it really take to thrive once you get there? In Singularity of the Mind, Nicholas Cristiano—a Rutgers Business School graduate who earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting with high honors—shares lessons from his own path. While his book explores mathematics, spirituality, and personal growth, his reflections on education deliver practical guidance for anyone preparing for business school.
Here are five takeaways to help you succeed.
Discover Your Passion Through Exploration
Cristiano didn’t start out set on business school. As a kid fascinated with building toys like K’Nex and Lego Technic, he once dreamed of becoming an architect. That changed in high school after he tried an accounting class—and found his true path.
His journey shows the value of experimentation. Exploring different subjects early on can help you uncover unexpected passions.
Tip: In high school or early college, test the waters. Take electives, try internships, or join organizations. Cristiano competed in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where he placed 4th in New Jersey in accounting. Experiences like these don’t just build skills—they also strengthen your resume.
Focus on Your Studies—Parties Can Wait
At Rutgers, Cristiano commuted daily and devoted himself to academics. While classmates prioritized parties, he made a conscious choice: “I was solely focused on my studies rather than parties.” That discipline helped him graduate with high honors.
Tip: Treat business school like a full-time job. The workload is heavy, and staying disciplined will give you a real edge. Socializing has its place, but long-term success comes from prioritizing your goals.
Combine Business Knowledge with Technical Skills
One of Cristiano’s biggest insights is the power of pairing accounting with computer science. In his Accounting Information Systems (AIS) class, his professor explained that computer scientists often struggle to design effective accounting systems because they don’t fully understand accounting rules.
Cristiano’s conclusion? “My big takeaway for people who want to study accounting is for them to understand computer science.”
Tip: Don’t stop at business basics. Learn programming, database design, and Excel at an advanced level. If you can build accounting systems from the ground up, you’ll stand out in fields like fintech, auditing, and consulting.
Build a Strong Foundation for Success
Cristiano’s early interest in technology—coding and designing websites on his Gateway laptop back in 2008—blended naturally with his accounting degree. This interdisciplinary foundation gave him flexibility and confidence as he entered the workforce.
Tip: Consider a minor, certification, or side project in areas like data analytics or IT. A mix of business acumen and technical skills doesn’t just boost employability—it reshapes how you think about solving problems.
Balance Education with Real-World Experiences
Cristiano’s success wasn’t built in the classroom alone. Family trips, scuba diving in Bonaire, and skiing in Utah all contributed to his perspective. As he puts it: “Education is a very structured setting, but to understand the world, you must be in the moment, and that is where one can learn wisdom.”
Tip: Don’t overlook life beyond academics. Travel, sports, and hobbies build resilience and perspective—the qualities that turn students into leaders.
Nicholas Cristiano’s story in Singularity of the Mind is a reminder that business school success isn’t about perfection—it’s about curiosity, focus, and adaptability. Explore widely to find your passion. Prioritize your studies. Pair business skills with technology. And don’t forget to embrace life outside the classroom.
