An important element of the success of the MPA program is the perception by students, faculty, and employers that students are evaluated fairly on the basis of their own work completed in accordance with the instructions provided. This perception relies on a culture of honesty and ethical conduct where there is no tolerance of scholastic dishonesty.
Additionally, the program prepares students for a profession in which honesty and ethical behavior are essential characteristics. The value that accountants provide directly relates to the credibility of the work they perform. MPA students are therefore expected to compete honestly and fairly with their peers and to adhere to the highest standard of personal integrity. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action including dismissal from the program.
All students are bound by the University Honor Code and the Institutional Rules on Student Services and Activities given in the General Information Catalog. Regulations and procedures regarding student discipline and conduct are set forth in Chapter 11 of the Institutional Rules.
yourself in a manner that demonstrates the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, which includes, but is not limited to, the guidelines below.
By choosing to use McCombs Career Management resources and tools, you agree to follow these standards of professional and ethical behavior:
- Demonstrate professionalism in all recruiting activities and relationships.
- Represent yourself accurately and recruit with genuine intentions.
- Honor all recruiting and employment commitments.
McCombs students participating in any in-person or virtual recruitment activities must abide by the Texas McCombs Career Management Code of Ethics.
Demonstrate Professionalism in all recruiting activities and relationships.
1. Prepare for Interviews & Events
- RSVP by the deadline posted to help employers and staff plan events and workshops. Large numbers of unexpected guests can result in companies not having enough recruiters, resources, or space. Large numbers of no-shows for events or receptions can result in companies canceling campus interviews.
- Before attending recruiting events or interviews, complete company and industry research and prepare questions for recruiters.
- When attending a recruiting event or interview, be prepared to engage in conversation as well as answer and ask questions as appropriate. Failure to do so demonstrates a lack of interest and reflects poorly on all McCombs students.
- Learn and understand how to use the campus online recruiting systems as part of your overall preparation.
2. Dress Professionally
- Interviews typically require business professional attire unless otherwise noted.
- Presentations and company receptions typically require business casual unless otherwise noted.
- Jeans, shorts, sneakers, flip-flops, and similar casual wear are never appropriate for any recruiting-related or company-sponsored event.
3. Arrive to Events Early or On Time
- Show up on time for all recruiting events.
- For on-campus interviews, it is strongly advised that you arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled interview time to leave adequate time for check-in. For virtual interviews we recommend that you log in 5-10 minutes early when possible and follow any instructions sent by the interviewer. Set up and test your camera, connection, and microphone on a fully charged computer prior to your interview date to eliminate day-of technical issues.
- By scheduling an interview, you commit to showing up on time unless a legitimate reason arises (e.g., recent acceptance of another offer, sudden personal illness, or a death in the family).
4. Always Communicate Professionally
- When communicating with recruiters and staff, be respectful and professional.
- Respond promptly to all email, written, and phone communications from recruiters, employers, and the Career Management staff.
- Turn off and put away cell phones, laptops, and other electronic devices during recruiting events and interviews.
- Behave in a respectful and professional manner at all recruiting events and interviews, including all office visits or recruiting trips. Every interaction with a prospective employer or staff member either enhances or detracts from your personal reputation and the reputation of Texas McCombs.
5. Respond to Every Interview Offer & Offer of Employment
- If you receive an invitation to interview and do not plan to attend, decline the invitation as soon as possible so another student can take the spot. There is no penalty for declining invitations to interview.
- Respond to every offer of employment, whether you accept or reject it. If you need assistance asking an employer for an extension on your offer timeline, please contact your Career Coach.