Singing, dancing and accounting may not appear to have much in common, but for Maximillion (Max) Hopton, they were the perfect combination.

In his time at Macomb, Max, was able to pursue his passion for performing, honing his musical skills as a part of Macomb’s show choir, The Macombers, while also dedicating his studies to accounting because of the security that the profession provides.

It’s More Than Just Music with Macomb’s Show Choir

The Macombers is the college’s prestigious show choir. They perform at college events as well as retirement communities, schools and other places throughout the community. The sharing of music with the community is what helped drive Max’s passion for the group. “I feel like a lot of people don’t realize how much music can change you, until you’re exposed to the right kind of music.”

Beyond the music, Max gained so much from his time with the choir, “My time in the Macombers has been, no exaggeration, the best in my life.” He revealed that he not only was able to grow as a performer and an individual but also make invaluable connections, “I’ve made lifelong friends because of this group.” This includes meeting his girlfriend, who was also a Macomber.  

Because of his time in the Macombers, Max had life changing experiences that taught him responsibility, accountability and the value of hard work. These skills carried over to other aspects of his life, like when it came to choosing a major.

Max received a scholarship for music performance because of the Macombers, which he was incredibly grateful for. The scholarship allowed him to explore the accounting program which would become his new major.

The Rewards and Stability of an Accounting Career

The desire to have a solid foundation and stable career was important to Max. He chose accounting after he “got the inspiration” from his dad, who is an accountant himself. Growing up seeing what a successful career in accounting looked like, Max wanted the same. He loves working with numbers and patterns, and solving the puzzles that come with this curriculum.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accounting jobs are expecting a six percent growth within the next ten years, making it an in-demand job with reliable employment opportunities.

Max contributes his success in the program to the accounting professors who made the material easy to understand. “I was worried that I was going to be behind” He went on to describe that he was worried he might have made the wrong choice in his major, but his professors made sure that his dedication would not go to waste, “they made it very easy to pick up.”

Max’s success in the accounting program further fueled his drive to push forward in both his pursuits.

Establishing A Promising Future by Transferring To A University

As his time at Macomb came to an end, Max received his associate degree in accounting and his music performance certificate but he’s not stopping there. He is now attending Western Michigan University where he will be pursuing his goal of obtaining a bachelor's degree in accounting with a minor in music composition.

Max has found a way to get the best of both worlds. He’s able to perfect his musical skills and have robust accounting skills that can lead to a fulfilling career. Max has been able to find the perfect balance for getting the future he wants. Proving that you don’t have to choose one over the other, you can follow your passion and have a rewarding career. 

“Without Macomb, none of this would have happened and I definitely would not be on the same path that I am right now and it is a million times better than anything that I could imagine.”

Max’s story shows how pursuing your passion while also getting practical experiences can come together in unexpected ways. If his journey resonates with you, explore our programs and find your own path today.