Westfield State’s Melissa Costello Pursues Four Degrees and Earns Recognition on Mad Money

Westfield State University alum Melissa Costello, class of 2022, is making her mark as she returns to campus to pursue both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting. Costello, who previously graduated with double bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and economics, will have completed four distinct degrees upon the master’s program completion, underscoring her dedication to academic excellence and career development.

Originally from Burlington, MA, Costello’s journey with mathematics began at an early age. “Math was always my thing,” she reflected. “From the day I was in preschool, I knew I’d pursue it.” Drawn to Westfield State after attending open houses and seeing the way faculty engaged with students, she shared, “There was no question to it. I knew it would be my favorite department.”

Throughout her undergraduate years, Costello engaged in a well-rounded campus experience by participating in the University’s math club, Lifetime Owls, and general campus activities such as its bingo nights. She is also involved with the Banacos Academic Center, volunteering to help out with open house events after utilizing their services during her undergraduate journey.

Costello attributes much of her professional growth to the Career Center, specifically noting the support of Assistant Director Dino Innarelli. “I admire Dino because he helped me apply to wonderful jobs that I was able to apply all of my skills to,” she said. “It’s great that I get to use what I learned from my mathematics and economics degree in addition to the two degrees I am currently working towards.”

Formerly an Accountant and Tax Preparer at EQUIX Tax LLC, Costello finds immense value in applying her coursework to her role. Recently, Costello’s drive and expertise caught national attention when she was featured on CNBC’s Mad Money with Jim Cramer. Mad Money, an American television program, focuses on investments and the analysis of company stocks. For a class project, she researched stocks and called into Cramer’s “Lightning Round” to discuss her analysis of Crown Castle, a telecommunications service provider.

“I wanted to ask him something that wasn’t about Apple or Microsoft stocks,” Costello said. “We all know that they’re very popular and profitable, and I wanted to ask a question that wouldn’t lead to a direct ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ I was curious to see what Jim would come up with, and in the end, his solution to my question was really the same thing I thought it was.”

As she continues her dual studies in mathematics and accounting, Costello will soon start a new role at Williams Roberts Electric Co. Inc. as an Accountant. With hands-on experience in payroll and bookkeeping, she’s eager to apply her mathematical and economic skills once again.

Reflecting on her Westfield State experience, Costello highlighted the impactful role of small class sizes and support services like the Banacos Center and TRIO Student Support Services, saying, “You just get more out of them.” For prospective students, she recommends Westfield State’s rigorous academics, which have helped her build connections between her studies and her professional opportunities.